It’s officially the coziest time of the year!
Whether you’re celebrating (American) Thanksgiving or enjoying the countdown to Christmas, family and friend gatherings are at an all-time high.
And if you’re anything like me (AKA culinary-challenged), you’re thankfully not in charge of the turkey (truly a blessing for everyone). But showing up empty-handed? Couldn’t be me.
So here are 5 festive low-effort side dishes you could make for your next holiday get together.
1. Butternut Squash Soup
It’s officially soup season! Try making this butternut squash soup. It’s a simple, low-effort dish that feels like a warm hug with every spoonful.
Recipe from: Once Upon a Chef
Once Upon a Chef’s butternut squash soup
2. Focaccia with Whipped Ricotta
I wouldn’t say focaccia is low-effort, but this one is! It’s a same-day focaccia recipe that pairs great with a whipped ricotta topping.
Recipes from: The Zett (focaccia) and Home Cooking Collective (whipped ricotta)
The Zett’s focaccia and the Home Cooking Collective’s whipped ricotta
3. A Simple Fall Salad
Think arugula, pears, feta, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. You won’t have to cook a thing, and it tastes GREAT!
Recipe from: Getty Stewart
Getty Stewart’s pear and arugula salad with walnuts, cranberries, and feta
4. Roasted Maple Sweet Potatoes
They’re sweet, savoury, cozy, and almost impossible to mess up. It’s amazing how a quick drizzle of maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon can make sweet potatoes feel festive.
Recipe from: Together as Family
Together as Family’s maple cinnamon roasted sweet potatoes
5. Cinnamon Rolls
Who can resist a warm and fluffy cinnamon roll? Not only will these taste delicious, it’ll make your kitchen smell like heaven (even if you bought the dough)!
Recipe from: Sally’s Baking
Sally’s Baking’s easy cinnamon rolls from scratch
6. Apple Crumble
A true fall classic. It’s delicious, comforting, and cozy. You really can’t go wrong with this one!
Recipe from: The Zett
The Zett’s apple crumble
At the end of the day, gatherings are about being together. If you bring something cozy, simple, and made with even a sprinkle of love, it’s already a win.
And if all else fails? Show up with a tub of ice cream and your sparkling personality. Trust me, nobody’s complaining!
The Lilac Blog 