Thanksgiving Sides Fab Five

Today’s Fab Five is yummy sides that would be perfect to serve as part of your Thanksgiving meal.  First up is this Panko Topped Green Bean Casserole.  The panko is a fun change.

One of the highlights of this casserole is the use of fresh green beans, which add a delightful crispness and vibrant flavor to the dish. For those looking to simplify the recipe, using frozen green beans is a great alternative; just be sure to thaw them beforehand.

Another fantastic component is the inclusion of fresh mushrooms, which contribute an earthy, rich taste that complements the green beans perfectly. The combination of these ingredients results in a casserole that not only a fresh, wholesome flavor but also has a wonderful texture. It’s a perfect addition to any meal, offering a delicious way to enjoy vegetables with that crunchy panko topping. Make this up to the point of the panko topping the day before. Then just add the topping and bake before the meal.

One of my absolute favorite appetizers is this cranberry cream cheese spread. It’s a delightful and simple way to bring a festive touch to any Thanksgiving. The combination of the tangy cranberries and the rich cream cheese creates a fabulous blend of flavors that is sure to please any palate.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Just mix together the four ingredients and place in the fridge ahead of time. To serve, pair it with an assortment of crackers for a delicious treat. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, this spread is sure to be a hit.

If you’re in the mood for a Jello-based treat, this Cranberry Jello is a fantastic option. It combines the tartness of raspberry Jello with the sweet and tangy flavors of canned cranberries, pineapple, and apple.. The vibrant red hue of the Jello, paired with the chunks of fruit, makes this dessert visually appealing as well.

To elevate this dish even further, don’t forget to add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. It’s the perfect finishing touch that adds a creamy, airy contrast to the fruity and gelatinous texture. This Cranberry Jello is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. This can also be made a head of time.

Alternatively, I really enjoy this Cranberry Pomegranate Salad. It’s a refreshing dish that offers another fantastic way to incorporate pomegranates into your meals. The combination of tart cranberries and juicy pomegranate seeds creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This salad not only adds a burst of color to your table but also brings a delightful mix of sweet and tangy notes. It’s perfect for adding a fresh, fruity element to any meal and is especially fitting for the holiday season. Plus, it’s always exciting to find new ways to use pomegranates! Another good make ahead dish.

Lastly, one of my absolute favorite green salads is the Cran-Orange Almond Salad. This recipe includes jicama, which adds a delightful crunch and a unique texture to the dish. Jicama’s crispness perfectly complements the sweet and tangy combination of cranberries and oranges, while the almonds add a satisfying nuttiness.

However, if you’re not a fan of jicama or simply don’t have it on hand, don’t worry. The salad will still be fabulous even without it, maintaining its refreshing flavor profile. The blend of ingredients makes this salad a standout, whether served as a side or a light main course. You can prep the ingredients a head of time and assemble the salad just before you eat.