31 Healthy, Last-Minute Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes

By Kissairis Munoz

It’s T-minus two days to Thanksgiving, and whether you’re spending it with family or enjoying Friendsgiving, showing up empty-handed is simply unacceptable. Not mention, no fun! While turkey tends to be in the spotlight—and we’d never downplay a healthy protein—side dishes are where it’s at on Turkey Day.

It doesn’t matter if you have the luxury of starting the day before, are cooking the morning of, whipping something together before guests arrive, or there are only minutes to spare (tip: Our selected no-cook recipes allow you to buy items at the grocery store on the way over and toss them together when you arrive): There’s still plenty of time to contribute spectacular Brussels sprouts, mouthwatering mashed potatoes, or lip-smacking stuffing. These delicious recipes, sorted by how much time’s left, will have everyone asking for seconds, and they’re perfect for those hosting dinner too.

Dinner’s Tomorrow

Photo: Eat Yourself Skinny

1. Sausage, Sage, and Apple Stuffing

Skip the Stovetop (not that there’s anything wrong with that) and make this stuffing instead. Sourdough bread is combined with autumnal flavors like sage and apples for a side dish your family will rave about. While it’s simple to make, there’s a good amount of slicing and dicing involved. Prep it the night before, then bake for 45 minutes while your aunt grills you about your love life.

2. Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy

Roasting a turkey is stressful enough without worrying about making the Best. Gravy. Ever. Cue this make-ahead recipe. Using turkey wings ensures you’ll have a tasty, stress-free Thanksgiving. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove and serve. Tip: Save the wing meat for soups, quesadillas, or any recipe that requires pre-cooked meat, and make extra gravy to freeze for later. (Christmas, anyone?)

3. Makeover Spinach Gratin

Frozen, chopped spinach makes cooking this a snap, while two types of cheese give it the bubbly goodness you want without overwhelming the greens. Split the work into two days: Do the stovetop cooking the day before and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake for dinner.

4. “Cornbread” and Sausage Stuffing

Even cavemen loved stuffing, right? This Paleo-friendly version starts with grain-free cornbread made with almond and coconut flours, then adds sausage, celery, fresh sage, and spices. Make the bread on Wednesday, assemble the stuffing Thursday morning, and bake.

5. Overnight Refrigerator Rolls

People will think you’re a cooler Martha Stewart when you whip up these homemade rolls. (We won’t spill on how easy they are to prepare.) Mix the dough when you have time and let …read more

Source:: Greatist