5 Hearty Side Dish Ideas To Bring To Friendsgiving Dinner

Last Updated on October 4, 2023 by Jason Nguyen

Friendsgiving is the festive cousin of Thanksgiving, where the dress code is comfy, the vibe is chilled, and the food is glorious! It’s that one night where the “family” you choose gathers around, and the feast is often potluck-style, everyone bringing in their signature dishes. 

And while that turkey or vegan roast might be the star of the show, let’s not forget those unsung heroes: the side dishes. Let’s dive into the five side dishes that’ll have everyone going, “Who brought this?!” and asking for seconds — or even thirds!

The Magic of Modern Cookware

Making the perfect side dish for Friendsgiving is about more than just the ingredients. Ever been in the middle of making that scrumptious side dish and found yourself battling with your pots and pans? That’s a tragedy we’d like to avoid at Friendsgiving. 

That’s where ceramic cookware comes in. This cookware is a modern-day knight in shining armor for your kitchen. Retaining heat? Check!

Going from oven to table without missing a style beat? Double check! And the post-feast cleanup? A breeze. Arguably, the best part is that these pots and pans tend to be as stylish as they are functional. After all, we eat with our eyes first!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Brussels sprouts are the comeback kid of veggies. Once the “ew” of childhood plates, these little green gems become a star, especially when jazzed up with bacon. Picture crispy Brussels sprouts with hints of caramelized edges tossed with savory bacon bits. 

And if you want to impress those Friendsgiving foodies? Use a ceramic roasting pan. It ensures those sprouts cook evenly and soak up all the bacon goodness. The result?

A delightful combination that has even the most skeptical guests munching away with delight. Trust me, it’ll turn “not Brussels sprouts!” into “more Brussels sprouts, please!”

Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Move over traditional mashed potatoes; there’s a sweet new kid in town. Think of creamy sweet potatoes with a gentle kick of garlic, all whipped to perfection.

Maybe toss in a hint of cinnamon or a sprinkle of nutmeg for that cozy fall essence. And here’s a secret: ceramic cookware does wonders here. 

Once you’ve mashed those potatoes, transfer them to a ceramic dish, pop them in the oven for a quick heat, and voilà, you’ve got a side that’s as warm as the company you’re sharing it with. Let’s be real, who doesn’t love a vibrant dish that stands out?

Spicy Cornbread Stuffing

Stuffing isn’t just for the bird, especially when it’s this good. Take your standard cornbread stuffing and give it a zesty makeover. How? Add some diced jalapeños or bell peppers if you’re feeling slightly less adventurous. Maybe a handful of chorizo for an extra punch? 

Imagine all those flavors mingling, each bite a burst of spice, sweetness, and savory goodness. To ensure every bite is perfectly moist and not the least bit dry, bake it in a ceramic dish. It’ll retain moisture while giving the top that crispy perfection. 

Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Salad

Let’s break away from the warm and toasty and dive into something refreshing, shall we? This salad perfectly blends earthy wild rice, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans. It’s that unexpected side dish that leaves guests pleasantly surprised. 

Drizzle with a zesty orange dressing to bring out those autumnal vibes. Make sure to use ceramic serving bowls. Not only will it keep the salad cool, but the vibrant colors of the dish will pop beautifully against the smooth, sleek ceramic. Remember, Friendsgiving isn’t just about traditions; it’s about creating new ones. This salad might just become your signature dish!

Honey Glazed Carrots with Toasted Almonds

Ditch those baby carrots with ranch dressing; it’s time to elevate the humble carrot. We’re talking sweet carrots glazed with honey and butter, then sprinkled generously with toasted almonds. The sweetness from the honey complements the carrot’s natural flavor, while the almonds offer an irresistible crunch. 

If you’re thinking of achieving that gentle, even roast on your carrots, reach out for your trusty ceramic cookware. It ensures even heat distribution, making sure every carrot slice is equally tender and perfectly glazed. 

Sweet Side of Friendship

Friendsgiving is about celebrating friendship, gratitude, and sensational food! The table might be laden with an array of dishes, but side dishes, especially the ones cooked with love (and the aid of ceramic cookware!), truly shine bright. 

So, as you gather around the table, sharing laughs, stories, and heaping plates of delicious food, remember that it’s the heartfelt sides that make the meal complete. Just like in life, it’s those “side moments,” the ones we often overlook, that add the most flavor. Cheers to delicious dishes, the magic of ceramic cookware, and the beauty of Friendsgiving!