15 Christmas Salads and Vegetable Sides for Holiday Tables
Guests always notice when you bring out any of these 15 Christmas salads and vegetable sides perfect for any holiday spread. So many families rely on straightforward dishes that pair well with main meals. Changing up your side options can help add a pop of flavor and variety for everyone. Invite a little freshness to the celebration without complicated steps.
Fresh Greek Salad
Every holiday table gets a burst of color from this Fresh Greek Salad. The crisp veggies and tangy finish bring a refreshing break between richer dishes. I set out extra servings because guests come back for seconds. Lively flavors make this salad stand out among the classic Christmas sides.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Greek Salad
Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Nostalgia always joins the party with this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make. Crunchy fruit and creamy dressing combine into a classic that surprises guests with its simplicity. I reach for it when the meal needs a cool, sweet counterpoint. People ask about the recipe after only a few bites.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Fresh Beet Salad
Holiday gatherings become more vibrant thanks to this Fresh Beet Salad. Its deep color catches eyes before the first bite, while the earthy flavor pairs well with festive mains. I find it’s a nice contrast to heavier options. Crisp, juicy beets add a special touch everyone remembers.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad
Crisp Honeycrisp Salad
Sweet apple slices meet crunchy greens in this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad, drawing people in with every colorful forkful. I serve it at December dinners for extra freshness on the table. The pop of sweetness lifts spirits as the meal unfolds. It’s one of those salads that quickly disappears from the bowl.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad
Crunchy Celery Salad
Guests seem surprised by how lively this Crunchy Celery Salad tastes among other holiday sides. Its crisp texture offers a welcome change, perfect for balancing the heavier dishes. I add extra for gatherings because people munch on it even after dinner ends. A simple idea turns out to be a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad
Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasting brings out a caramelized edge in
Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
A showpiece side, this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower steals the spotlight at festive gatherings. Its crisp exterior and soft interior win over skeptics with each slice. I bring it out when the meal needs something hearty yet fuss-free. Guests often ask how it turns out so flavorful every year.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Tender Cauliflower Steaks
Thick slices of these Tender Cauliflower Steaks are a smart option for anyone seeking something different at holiday meals. The mild flavor and golden surface make these a surprise hit. I share them when simple sides are expected but something special is needed. People often reach for one more slice.
Get the Recipe: Tender Cauliflower Steaks
Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks
Choosing plant-based sides gets easy with this Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks. Their crispy edges pair well with all sorts of mains, drawing out warmth in each bite. I suggest making extra, since they move fast on busy tables. The roasted look gives a festive touch to every plate.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks
Tender Roasted Broccoli
Each floret of this Tender Roasted Broccoli earns praise for its rich flavor and comforting warmth. The slight caramelization makes it perfect for chilly December meals. I prepare a big batch as everyone seems to ask for seconds. It’s ideal next to roasted meats or vegetarian casseroles.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Sweet and tangy notes set this Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze apart. The glossy finish looks impressive among the holiday spread. I notice hesitant eaters always try at least one and then come back for more. This side is a conversation starter at any festive dinner.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Creamy, warm, and bubbling, this Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole fits right in with the season. Its golden layer draws plenty of attention on any buffet. I make extra because people quickly clear the dish, hoping for leftovers. Bring this out and watch even picky eaters dig in.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Serving a melty dish like this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole guarantees comfort on a chilly evening. The smooth texture feels welcoming when paired with traditional Christmas mains. I save some for myself once people discover how good it tastes. Holiday meals brighten up instantly with a scoop of this casserole.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto
Creamy grains and savory mushrooms make this Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto a go-to for special Christmas dinners. The aroma spreads through the kitchen, hinting at something luxurious. I enjoy offering this dish whenever the table needs a touch of elegance. Each spoonful shares cozy, wintry vibes with every guest.
Get the Recipe: Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto
Colorful 7 Layer Salad
Festive occasions burst with energy after this Colorful 7 Layer Salad joins the lineup. Its layers offer a crunchy surprise between hearty servings. I notice guests lean in for seconds, eager to scoop out every flavor. A salad with so much color just feels right for the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Colorful 7 Layer Salad
