Fresh Festive Sides

December 3, 2020
| Created by Heather Lieber, RDN, CD

Many of us have traditional, signature main dishes we like to make around the holidays. What’s a great way to keep with tradition but also try something new and delicious? How about shake up the sides? There are endless combinations of ingredients and flavors to add that extra wow factor to an already favorite entrée. Here are a couple of ideas to keep your sides fresh and festive, and they happen to be nutritious as well: 

Oven roasted veggies: A warm, flavorful side to accompany any meat, fish or poultry main dish. Try something new! Tricolor carrots, beets, Romanesco broccoli, or whatever looks exciting and unique. Every vegetable’s flavor is amplified, deepened, and extra delicious when roasted. Toss them in a 425° oven with oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices until edges begin to brown (start with 15 minutes). 

Seven-grain artisan rolls with cranberry jalapeño preserves: These hearty rolls from our bakery are a filling, whole grain side for any meal if you already have a plan for a fruit or veggie. Smother with Pepperlane Cran-Peno preserves from our cheese island for some festive flair.

Decorative seasonal fruit plate: Don’t forget the sweet stuff! Layer fruits in an attractive way
to make them worthy of your fancy holiday dinner spread. 

  • Citrus Ombre: Layer slices of oranges, blood oranges, and grapefruit slices on a platter for a colorful ombre effect.
  • Merry Kiwi: Arrange kiwi slices and pomegranate arils on a platter for a spread of vivid holiday color and flavor.

We hope you enjoy sprucing up your sides to add to your fabulous entrées this season. For more ideas or to receive personalized advice on nutrition, contact your Harmons dietitian at dietitian@harmonsgrocery.com.