Executive Chef Eric Atlas shows you how to make 3 VERY simple recipes for Thanksgiving this week – Yam-Infused Mashed …

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Simple Recipes, Delicious Food: Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, celebrate, and indulge in a feast fit for kings. While the turkey often takes center stage, side dishes play a crucial role in creating a memorable holiday meal. Here, we’ll explore some simple yet delicious Thanksgiving side dishes that will impress your guests and make your meal complete.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of potatoes (Yukon gold or russet)
• 1/2 cup of butter
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Peel and chop the potatoes into equal-sized chunks.
2. Boil in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Drain and return to the pot.
4. Add butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped chives if desired.

2. Green Bean Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the green beans and half of the crispy fried onions. Stir until well mixed.
5. Pour into a greased casserole dish and top with remaining fried onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.

3. Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Ingredients:

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• 1/4 cup of butter, melted
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups of mini marshmallows

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil whole sweet potatoes until tender. Let cool, then peel and mash.
3. In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish.
5. Top with mini marshmallows.
6. Bake for 25 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.

4. Cranberry Sauce

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1 cup of water
• Zest of one orange (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
3. Stir in the orange zest for added flavor if desired.
4. Cool before serving, and refrigerate until ready.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
4. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for additional flavor.

Conclusion

These simple Thanksgiving side dishes are sure to delight your guests and complement your turkey perfectly. With a mix of creamy, savory, and sweet flavors, they embody the spirit of Thanksgiving—sharing good food with loved ones. Enjoy your holiday feast, and remember that the best moments are made around the dinner table!