37 Thanksgiving Foods that Start with W
Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude, family gatherings, and, of course, a lavish spread of delicious foods.
While traditional staples like turkey and stuffing are well-known, there’s a whole alphabet of delights to consider for your festive feast.
In this article, we delve into the world of Thanksgiving foods that begin with the letter “W.”
This often-overlooked category offers a surprising variety of flavors and textures, from the warmth of whole wheat rolls to the richness of walnut stuffing.
Letter W Thanksgiving Foods List
Whether you’re seeking to add a twist to your traditional menu or aiming to try something completely new, these “W” foods will bring whimsy and satisfaction to your holiday table.
Join us as we explore the wonders of these culinary offerings, each beginning with a letter that might just stand for ‘Wow’ on this special occasion.
1. Waldorf Salad
A classic salad that hails from New York’s Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, the Waldorf Salad combines fresh apples, celery, and walnuts, tossed in mayonnaise and served on a bed of lettuce. It’s a crunchy and refreshing side that adds a bit of old-world glamour to your Thanksgiving spread.
2. Wild Rice
Wild rice is a traditional Native American food that can be a nutritious and flavorful alternative to white rice or stuffing. It can be cooked with herbs and dried fruits for a side dish that’s both earthy and slightly sweet.
3. Whipped Sweet Potatoes
Whipped sweet potatoes are a lighter, fluffier version of the classic sweet potato casserole. They can be spiced up with cinnamon, nutmeg, and topped with a touch of maple syrup for a creamy and indulgent side.
4. White Turkey Chili
For a less traditional take on Thanksgiving, a white turkey chili can be a warming and hearty option, perfect for chilly November evenings. It’s also a great way to use up leftover turkey.
5. Watercress Salad
Watercress offers a peppery bite that’s perfect for cleansing the palate between the richer dishes on the Thanksgiving table. Toss it with a simple lemon vinaigrette for a light side salad.
6. Wheat Rolls
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a basket of warm, homemade rolls. Wheat rolls provide a hearty, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with butter, jams, or used for sopping up gravy.
7. White Wine Sangria
Lighten up your beverage selection with a crisp white wine sangria, infused with autumnal fruits like pears, apples, and grapes. It’s a festive and fruity drink that’s perfect for toasting to gratitude.
8. Wasabi Mashed Potatoes
Give your mashed potatoes a kick with a small addition of wasabi. The pungent heat of this Japanese horseradish can add an unexpected twist to a classic comfort dish.
9. Walnut-Stuffed Figs
As an appetizer or dessert, walnut-stuffed figs are a bite-sized treat that offers a perfect blend of textures and flavors: chewy, sweet figs filled with crunchy, nutty walnuts.
10. Whiskey Glazed Carrots
Carrots glazed with a touch of whiskey and brown sugar can provide a side dish with a balance of sweetness and the deep, complex flavors of the alcohol, which cooks off during the glazing process.
11. Wild Mushroom Stuffing
A rustic twist on the traditional stuffing, this version is loaded with a variety of wild mushrooms, bringing earthy flavors to complement your Thanksgiving turkey.
12. Whipped Honey Butter
Whipped honey butter is a delightful spread for your rolls or cornbread, combining the sweetness of honey with creamy butter, whipped to perfection for a light, fluffy accompaniment.
13. Winter Squash Casserole
Winter squash, such as butternut or acorn, can be turned into a delicious casserole with layers of creamy sauce and melty cheese, a warm side that showcases the bounty of the season.
14. Wilted Spinach with Garlic
Wilted spinach sautéed with garlic is a simple yet flavorful dish that adds a pop of color and a dose of healthy greens to your festive table.
15. White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
For a sweet treat that nods to Thanksgiving flavors, white chocolate cranberry cookies are a perfect choice, blending tart cranberries with sweet white chocolate in every bite.
16. Warm Apple Cider
Nothing quite says fall like a mug of warm apple cider, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, providing cozy comfort for your guests as they gather.
17. Worcestershire Sauce Glazed Brussel Sprouts
A glaze made from Worcestershire sauce can give a savory and tangy edge to roasted Brussel sprouts, turning a common side into a memorable dish.
18. Wine-Braised Red Cabbage
Red cabbage braised in red wine is a German-inspired side dish, offering a tangy and sweet taste with a beautiful deep purple hue that can brighten up the Thanksgiving table.
19. Whipped Cauliflower
A lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, whipped cauliflower can be seasoned with garlic and herbs for a smooth and creamy side dish.
20. Wasabi Deviled Eggs
Add a Japanese twist to your appetizers with wasabi deviled eggs. The wasabi provides a spicy kick that complements the richness of the deviled eggs perfectly.
21. Waffles
Waffles aren’t just for breakfast—they can make an inventive base for savory Thanksgiving toppings like turkey and cranberry sauce, or be served as a bread alternative for a fun twist on the classic holiday meal.
22. Watermelon Salad
Brighten your Thanksgiving spread with a refreshing watermelon salad. Mixed with feta cheese, mint, and a balsamic glaze, it’s a light palate cleanser among the hearty feast.
23. Wonton Soup
Begin your Thanksgiving meal with a comforting bowl of wonton soup. This Asian-inspired starter with delicate dumplings in a flavorful broth can be a warming introduction to the feast.
24. White Bread Rolls
Soft and fluffy white bread rolls are a staple at many Thanksgiving dinners. They’re perfect for sopping up gravy and making mini turkey sandwiches with leftovers.
25. White Claw
For those looking for a lighter alcoholic option, White Claw hard seltzer can be a refreshing choice, pairing well with various Thanksgiving dishes without feeling too heavy.
26. Whipped Cream
A dollop of homemade whipped cream is the crowning glory on pies and desserts, and can even be used to top off your favorite holiday beverages.
27. White Asparagus
Serve white asparagus as an elegant side dish at your Thanksgiving table. Blanched and dressed in a light vinaigrette, it can add a sophisticated touch to your holiday spread.
28. White American Cheese
Incorporate White American cheese into your appetizers for a creamy and melty treat. It’s particularly delicious in a spicy cheese dip, paired with crackers or fresh vegetables.
29. White Beans
White beans are a versatile and nutritious addition to the Thanksgiving menu. Use them to make a creamy bean casserole or a rustic white bean soup seasoned with herbs and bacon.
30. White Cheddar Popcorn
Offer bowls of white cheddar popcorn as a savory and addictive snack before the main meal. It’s a crowd-pleasing munchie that both kids and adults will enjoy.
31. White Cake
A simple yet indulgent white cake can be a delightful dessert for those who prefer subtler flavors. Decorate it with seasonal fruits or edible flowers for a festive touch.
32. White Grape Juice
White grape juice is a family-friendly option that provides a sparkling alternative to wine. Serve it in fancy glasses to toast to the occasion.
33. White Mushrooms
Roasted white mushrooms, seasoned with garlic and herbs, make for a savory side dish. They can also be stuffed with a mixture of breadcrumbs and cheese for an elegant appetizer.
34. White Potatoes
Mashed white potatoes are a Thanksgiving classic. Whip them with butter and cream for a smooth and comforting side that’s perfect for piling high with gravy.
35. White Rum
For a spirited holiday celebration, mix white rum into cocktails. Create a Thanksgiving-themed mojito with cranberry juice and a sprig of rosemary for a festive twist.
36. White Sweet Potato
White sweet potatoes offer a subtler sweetness than their orange counterparts and can be baked, mashed, or turned into elegant hasselback potatoes for a unique side dish.
37. White Truffle Oil
Drizzle white truffle oil over mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or risotto for an instant upgrade in flavor. Its luxurious aroma is sure to impress your Thanksgiving guests.
What Thanksgiving food starts with a W?
As we wrap up our exploration of Thanksgiving foods that start with the letter “W,” it’s clear that these items bring their own special warmth to the holiday table.
From the heartiness of wild rice stuffing to the indulgence of a white chocolate pumpkin pie, each offers a unique flavor that can complement the classic dishes we’ve come to cherish.
Whether woven into your menu as mainstays or woven in as whimsical extras, foods beginning with “W” are wonderful additions that can elevate your feast from wonderful to extraordinary.
This Thanksgiving, we invite you to widen your menu with these selections, creating new traditions that your family and friends will look forward to year after year.
