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3 Healthy Holiday Sides You’ll Actually Want on Your Plate

December 20, 2025

Holiday sides can be delicious — but they can also weigh your plate down fast. And if you’re trying to keep things a bit lighter? Finding options that still feel festive isn’t always easy..

That’s where simple ingredients come into play. Fresh vegetables, herbs and natural sweetness can deliver all the comfort you’re looking for with far less sugar, cream or salt.

“That’s why I love building flavor with produce, herbs and citrus,” says Samantha Oldman, RD, with Hartford HealthCare Medical Group. “They make dishes feel bright and satisfying without adding heaviness.”

These three recipes bring all the cozy holiday flavors you love, without the heaviness that usually comes with them.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Lemon–Thyme Vinaigrette

Crispy edges, caramelized centers and a bright citrus finish — these Brussels sprouts hit every note. The roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while the lemon-thyme vinaigrette keeps things fresh and light.

“Brussels sprouts are incredibly nutrient-dense, and roasting really helps their flavor shine,” says Oldman. “Adding herbs and a splash of citrus builds depth without extra salt or heavy sauces.”

It’s the kind of side that feels special without adding any heaviness to your plate.

> Get the recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette

2. Lightened-Up Sweet Potato Casserole

This version delivers that classic holiday comfort — warm spices, creamy texture and a crunchy topping — without the usual sugar overload. Blending sweet potatoes with cauliflower creates natural sweetness and smoothness, and the pecan topping brings the perfect amount of richness.

“Using vegetables and heart-healthy oils helps you keep the indulgent feel of a casserole without relying on butter or added sugar,” Oldman explains. “Sweet potatoes, squash and cauliflower all bring nutrients and flavor on their own.”

The result is a cozy, familiar dish that feels traditional but much lighter.

> Get the recipe: A Lighter Sweet Potato Casserole

3. Cauliflower Rice Stuffing

This lighter take on stuffing skips the bread and uses cauliflower rice instead, which soaks up herbs, aromatics and sweetness from apple and cranberries. Toasted nuts or seeds give it that perfect holiday crunch.

“Vegetable-based swaps can keep the flavors people expect while cutting carbs and calories significantly,” Oldman says. “Herbs, onions, celery and carrots build that classic stuffing profile without needing a lot of extras.”

It’s a vibrant, texture-packed side that pairs effortlessly with everything on the holiday table.

> Get the recipe: Cauliflower Rice Stuffing