36 Thanksgiving Foods that are Green
As the golden hues of roasted turkey, the rich browns of savory stuffings, and the deep oranges of pumpkin pies dominate the Thanksgiving palette, it’s easy to overlook the importance of adding a splash of color to your festive table.
That’s where the greens come into play—not just for their vibrant color, but for the balance they bring to the hearty meal.
In this article, we’ll explore an array of green foods that can brighten up your Thanksgiving spread, adding not only a visual pop but also a variety of flavors and textures.
Foods that are Green for Thanksgiving
From zesty salsas to robust salads, and from traditional sides to unexpected treats, green foods are the unsung heroes that complete the Thanksgiving rainbow on your plate.
1. Green Bean Casserole
A Thanksgiving staple, this dish combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with crispy fried onions.
2. Brussels Sprouts
Roasted or sautéed with a touch of balsamic vinegar, these little green gems can be a deliciously caramelized addition to your feast.
3. Asparagus
Blanched or grilled asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil and sea salt make a simple yet elegant side dish.
4. Broccoli Salad
A fresh broccoli salad with dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing offers a crunchy and delightful contrast.
5. Collard Greens
Slow-cooked collard greens with garlic and a hint of smoky bacon are a soulful and savory side.
6. Kale Chips
Baked until crispy, these chips provide a healthier alternative to the traditional potato chips.
7. Pea Salad
Chilled green peas with chunks of cheddar cheese and a light mayonnaise dressing, sprinkled with bits of crispy bacon.
8. Zucchini Ribbons
Thinly sliced zucchini ribbons tossed with lemon zest and olive oil, a lighter side that’s both visually appealing and tasty.
9. Spinach Dip
A creamy and decadent dip, perfect with vegetables or whole-grain crackers, and always a hit at gatherings.
10. Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes
Incorporate some chopped herbs like parsley or chives into your mashed potatoes for a green speckled presentation and a burst of flavor.
11. Cucumber Salad
Sliced cucumbers in a dill vinaigrette, refreshing and crisp, balance the richer Thanksgiving dishes.
12. Pesto Pasta
A pasta salad with homemade basil pesto can serve as a vibrant and flavorful side option.
13. Green Olive Tapenade
A tangy and savory spread made from green olives, capers, and garlic, perfect for appetizer platters.
14. Avocado Deviled Eggs
Adding avocado to your deviled eggs filling not only makes them green but also creamy and rich.
15. Matcha Green Tea Cake
For dessert, a matcha-flavored cake with its natural green color will surely stand out on the dessert table.
16. Poblano Cornbread Stuffing
Spice up traditional stuffing by adding roasted poblano peppers for a mild, smoky flavor and a touch of green.
17. Minted Peas and Onions
Mint brings a fresh twist to the classic combination of peas and pearl onions, adding both color and a lively taste.
18. Cilantro Lime Rice
This zesty side dish is not only flavorful but also features flecks of green cilantro throughout.
19. Swiss Chard Gratin
A creamy and cheesy Swiss chard gratin, with its dark green leaves, is both comforting and packed with nutrients.
20. Arugula Pear Salad
Peppery arugula tossed with sweet slices of pear, perhaps with a sprinkle of gorgonzola and a balsamic dressing.
21. Edamame Hummus
This twist on traditional hummus is made with green soybeans and gives a vibrant green hue to the appetizer spread.
22. Green Grape Sorbet
A light and refreshing palate cleanser or dessert, made with sweet green grapes.
23. Fennel Apple Slaw
Crunchy fennel and green apples make for a tangy and refreshing coleslaw variant.
24. Kiwi and Honeydew Salad
A fruit salad focusing on green fruits can be a sweet, light side dish or dessert option.
25. Jalapeño Cheddar Corn Pudding
Add some kick to your table with this spicy take on classic corn pudding, dotted with green jalapeños.
26. Pistachio Crusted Cheese Ball
A cheese ball rolled in crushed pistachios not only looks festive but also offers a nutty, savory treat for guests to enjoy.
27. Chimichurri Sauce
This Argentinian sauce made from parsley, cilantro, garlic, vinegar, and oil is a perfect condiment for grilled meats.
28. Green Shakshuka
A green version of the classic shakshuka, made with leafy greens, herbs, and tomatillos, can be a unique addition for a brunch-style Thanksgiving.
29. Basil and Zucchini Frittata
A baked frittata with basil and zucchini is a great option for guests who prefer a lighter, egg-based dish.
30. Green Curry Vegetable Stew
For those who enjoy global flavors, a Thai-inspired green curry with seasonal vegetables can be a warming and aromatic main course.
31. Green Cabbage Steaks
Roasted or grilled green cabbage steaks are a beautiful and hearty addition to the Thanksgiving table. Brush them with olive oil, season well, and roast until tender for a simple yet impressive side.
32. Green Goddess Dressing
Drizzle this herby and creamy dressing over a crisp green salad or serve as a dip to complement an array of raw green vegetables. Its vibrant color and fresh taste can brighten up traditional Thanksgiving flavors.
33. Green Leaf Lettuce Wraps
Instead of bread-based appetizers, offer guests refreshing green leaf lettuce wraps filled with a medley of Thanksgiving flavors like shredded turkey, cranberries, and a touch of stuffing.
34. Lentils (Green)
A warm lentil salad using green lentils is not only a nourishing side but also provides a rustic, earthy element to the feast. They can be flavored with herbs like thyme and sage to tie in with Thanksgiving themes.
35. Salsa Verde
This tangy and zesty green salsa can be a versatile condiment at your Thanksgiving meal. It pairs wonderfully with appetizers, turkey, and even the traditional mashed potatoes for a little extra zing.
36. Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes add a Southern twist to the holiday spread. Serve them with a remoulade sauce or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a delightful appetizer or side dish.
What Thanksgiving foods are green in color?
In conclusion, green foods bring a necessary freshness and zest to the Thanksgiving feast.
Amid the traditional parade of starches and proteins, they introduce an element of lightness and balance, ensuring that the meal is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Whether you opt for the crispness of a green apple slaw, the richness of a pesto pasta, or the comfort of green bean casserole, incorporating these verdant options is a celebration of both taste and health.
So this Thanksgiving, remember to give green foods the spotlight they deserve on your festive table.
They’re not just garnishes—these green delights are full-fledged culinary stars that promise to make your holiday spread truly memorable.
