Delicious Paleo Whole30 Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and, of course, an abundance of delicious food. While the centerpiece turkey often gets all the glory, we all know the true stars of the feast are the incredible side dishes. This year, why not impress your guests with a spread of healthy, flavor-packed options that are not only irresistibly tasty but also align with Paleo and Whole30 dietary guidelines? Our carefully curated collection of Thanksgiving side dishes ensures everyone at your table will find something to savor, without even realizing these healthy spins on classic favorites are naturally grain-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free.

A collage of Nom Nom Paleo's Whole30 and Paleo Thanksgiving Side Dish recipes. There is a red banner that says Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-free. The image showcases various colorful and appetizing side dishes, including roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, and green beans, suggesting a vibrant and wholesome holiday meal.
Discover the best healthy Thanksgiving side dishes that are both Paleo and Whole30 compatible.

While a perfectly cooked Spatchcocked Turkey, generously smothered in rich Umami Gravy, holds its own special place, I personally find immense joy in creating a plate piled high with a vibrant array of vegetable side dishes. If you share this sentiment and are looking to enhance your holiday menu with wholesome, flavorful additions, you’ve come to the right place. Below, you’ll find some of my favorite healthy Thanksgiving side dishes, guaranteed to make your feast unforgettable and guilt-free. Each recipe is designed to be straightforward, allowing you more time to enjoy the holiday spirit with your loved ones.

Table of Contents

  • Potato & Sweet Potato Thanksgiving Side Dishes
    • Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes
    • Garlic Cauliflower Mashed “Potatoes”
    • Cauliflower Colcannon
    • Baked Sweet Potatoes
    • Crispy Swoodles With Bacon
    • Instant Pot Crispy Potatoes
  • Brussels Sprouts Thanksgiving Side Dishes
    • Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
    • Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
    • Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Asian Citrus Dressing
  • Other Delicious Vegetable Thanksgiving Side Dishes
    • Paleo Cran-Cherry Sauce
    • Instant Pot Autumn Mash
    • Instant Pot Kale and Carrots
    • Air Fryer Carrots
    • Roasted Garlic Autumn Root Vegetable Mash
    • Roasted Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic
    • Chinese Garlic Green Beans
    • Roasted Kabocha Squash
    • World’s Best Braised Cabbage
    • Swiss Chard with Raisins, Pine Nuts, and Crispy Prosciutto
    • Whole Roasted Cauliflower
  • Heartwarming Thanksgiving Soup Recipes
    • Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
    • Carrot Cardamom Soup
    • Pea Soup with Crispy Prosciutto
    • Instant Pot Cream of Mushroom Soup
    • Cream of Tomato Soup
  • Fresh Thanksgiving Salad Recipes
    • Asparagus Mimosa
    • Endive, Radicchio, and Apple Salad
    • Chopped Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing
    • Kale and Persimmon Salad
    • Red Cabbage Slaw with Tangy Carrot Vinaigrette
  • More Paleo and Whole30-compatible Thanksgiving recipes

Potato & Sweet Potato Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Potatoes, both regular and sweet, are quintessential Thanksgiving fare. This section offers innovative and healthier takes on these beloved classics, ensuring everyone can enjoy their favorite starchy sides without compromising on dietary preferences. From creamy mashes to crispy delights, these recipes transform humble potatoes into unforgettable Paleo and Whole30-friendly dishes.

Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes

An overhead shot of a hand scooping vegan and paleo Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes from a black bowl. The vibrant orange mash is smooth and inviting.

Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes (Vegan, Paleo, Whole30)

Average Rating: 4.89 from 17 votes
This spicy, sweet, and savory Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes recipe is an absolute game-changer for your holiday menu, ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish! Brightened with a dash of zesty cayenne pepper, a splash of fresh lime juice, and fragrant cilantro, this vegan, Whole30, and paleo sweet potato mash promises to be the new star at your Thanksgiving table. Its complex flavor profile and velvety texture make it a far superior and healthier alternative to traditional sweet potato casseroles.

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Garlic Cauliflower Mashed “Potatoes”

An overhead shot of a bowl filled with fluffy, garlicky cauliflower mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh herbs.

Garlic Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes (Whole30, Keto)

Average Rating: 4.96 from 25 votes
Embarking on a low-carb journey this Thanksgiving? Our Whole30 and keto garlic cauliflower mashed potatoes recipe is not just “nomtastic” but also incredibly easy to prepare, whether you use your Instant Pot or a classic stovetop method. This creamy, savory dish perfectly mimics the comforting texture and rich flavor of traditional mashed potatoes, making it virtually impossible for anyone to suspect they’re enjoying a low-carb, vegetable-packed alternative. It’s a truly satisfying and clever way to keep your holiday meal compliant and delicious.

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Cauliflower Colcannon

A hand is scooping paleo cauliflower colcannon from a gray bowl. The colcannon is white pureed cauliflower with flecks of green kale and scallions in it. There is melted ghee on top.

Cauliflower Colcannon

Average Rating: 4.83 from 28 votes
Looking to incorporate more greens into your comforting potato dishes this holiday season? Our Cauliflower Colcannon offers a healthy and keto-friendly twist on the beloved traditional Irish dish of mashed potatoes and cooked greens. In this version, the potatoes are cleverly replaced with creamy, velvety puréed cauliflower, beautifully blended with vibrant kale or cabbage. Your guests will be so impressed by its deliciousness, they’ll be asking for second and third helpings, completely oblivious to its healthier transformation. This dish can even be made effortlessly in your Instant Pot for added convenience.

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Baked Sweet Potatoes

An overhead shot of a perfectly cooked baked sweet potato, steaming gently, ready to be enjoyed.

Baked Sweet Potatoes (Yams)

Average Rating: 4.85 from 26 votes
Are you searching for the absolute best way to prepare sweet potatoes or yams for your Thanksgiving dinner? Look no further! This foolproof method for making perfectly baked yams and sweet potatoes is an absolute game-changer. It yields potatoes with delightfully soft, fluffy interiors and slightly caramelized skins, highlighting their natural sweetness. Not only are they a fantastic addition to your holiday spread, but you can also easily meal prep a batch to store in the refrigerator, allowing you to grab a healthy, naturally sweet snack whenever a craving strikes.

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Crispy Swoodles With Bacon

Crispy Swoodles with Bacon by Michelle Tam https://nomnompaleo.com. A vibrant dish of spiralized sweet potatoes, crispy bacon bits, and fresh herbs.

Crispy Swoodles with Bacon

Average Rating: 4.88 from 16 votes
While not a traditional Thanksgiving side dish, this ingenious faux noodle dish, crafted from crispy sweet potato spirals, truly deserves a permanent spot on your holiday menu. This crunchy combination of savory bacon, perfectly roasted sweet potato “swoodles,” tender carrots, and sweet onions, finished with a flourish of fresh herbs and a squeeze of bright lime juice, is designed to win over even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile: simply save any leftovers and top with a fried egg for a delectable, hearty breakfast the following morning!

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Instant Pot Crispy Potatoes

Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker) Crispy Potatoes by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo https://nomnompaleo.com. Golden brown and perfectly seasoned crispy potato wedges.

Instant Pot Crispy Potatoes

Average Rating: 4.74 from 34 votes
Achieving perfectly crispy potatoes with fluffy interiors doesn’t have to be a labor-intensive task, especially when you leverage the power of your Instant Pot! This recipe teaches you how to quickly cook potatoes to tender perfection in the pressure cooker ahead of time, allowing you to simply crisp them up on Thanksgiving Day. This ingenious method ensures you get that irresistible golden-brown exterior and creamy inside in no time flat, freeing up valuable oven space and your precious holiday hours.

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Brussels Sprouts Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Once shunned by many, Brussels sprouts have made a triumphant return to the dinner table, especially during the holidays. Their slightly bitter notes and satisfying texture make them a fantastic complement to rich Thanksgiving flavors. These recipes highlight Brussels sprouts in their most delicious forms, proving they are worthy of being a holiday staple, all while being Paleo and Whole30 friendly.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

An overhead shot of a rimmed baking sheet filled with Roasted Brussels sprouts with Bacon, perfectly caramelized and crispy.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon (Whole30, Keto, Air Fryer)

Average Rating: 4.89 from 17 votes
When it comes to holiday vegetable side dishes, few can rival the irresistible combination of Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Bacon. This recipe is not only Whole30 and keto-friendly but also delivers incredible flavor and texture. Whether you choose to roast them to perfection in the oven or achieve ultimate crispiness in your air fryer, the tender-crisp Brussels sprouts complemented by savory, smoky bacon will become a treasured addition to your fall and Thanksgiving table. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that consistently receives rave reviews.

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Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

An overhead shot of shaved Brussels sprouts with bacon in a large cast iron skillet, perfectly sautéed.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Average Rating: 4.67 from 18 votes
For a deliciously smoky and incredibly quick Whole30-friendly vegetable side dish, look no further than Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. By thinly shaving the Brussels sprouts, you drastically reduce cooking time, allowing them to achieve a tender-crisp texture in a matter of minutes. The addition of savory bacon infuses the dish with a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. This dish is so flavorful and satisfying, it’s guaranteed to knock your socks off and become a staple at your holiday gatherings.

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Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad with Asian Citrus Dressing

Warm Brussels Sprouts Slaw with Asian Citrus Dressing by Michelle Tam https://nomnompaleo.com. A vibrant warm salad, glistening with dressing, ready to serve.

Roasted Asian Brussels Sprouts Salad with Citrus and Ginger Dressing

Average Rating: 5 from 8 votes
Bring a refreshing and unexpected twist to your Thanksgiving table with this delightful Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad featuring a bright Asian Citrus Dressing. This particular recipe is a certified crowd-pleaser for several reasons: its vibrant flavors cut through the richness of other holiday dishes, and crucially, it can be made ahead of time, reducing stress on the big day. The tangy Asian-inspired orange and ginger dressing infuses the roasted Brussels sprouts with a zesty zing that will awaken your palate and leave everyone wanting more.

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Other Delicious Vegetable Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Beyond the typical, Thanksgiving offers an incredible opportunity to explore a diverse range of seasonal vegetables. This section introduces a medley of inventive and wholesome vegetable side dishes that are perfect for adding color, texture, and nutrition to your holiday spread. From savory mashes to crispy roasted delights, these Paleo and Whole30-friendly recipes ensure your Thanksgiving table is bursting with flavor and variety.

Paleo Cran-Cherry Sauce

An overhead shot of paleo cranberry sauce simmering in a saucepan, vibrant and ready to be served.

Paleo Cranberry Sauce with Cherries

Average Rating: 4.95 from 17 votes
If you’re on the hunt for a healthy, simple, and utterly delicious cranberry sauce that stands out from the traditional overly sweet versions, your search ends here! This fantastic Paleo Cran-Cherry Sauce utilizes the natural tartness of frozen cranberries balanced with the sweetness of cherries, creating a complex and vibrant condiment. It’s a naturally sweetened, Whole30-friendly alternative that pairs perfectly with your holiday turkey and can even be enjoyed year-round. Prepare to elevate your cranberry sauce game with this easy and wholesome recipe.

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Instant Pot Autumn Mash

Instant Pot Autumn Mash by Michelle Tam https://nomnompaleo.com. A rustic, colorful mash in a serving bowl, showcasing its rich texture.

Instant Pot Autumn Mash

Average Rating: 4.86 from 7 votes
This beautiful and wholesome vegetable mash, crafted from roasted garlic, sweet parsnips, tender carrots, and creamy cauliflower, is a true feast for both the eyes and tastebuds. Originally a stovetop favorite, this Instant Pot version makes preparing this vibrant side dish even faster and more convenient. It’s a delightful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, offering a rich, earthy flavor profile that perfectly complements any holiday meal. Simplify your Thanksgiving cooking without sacrificing an ounce of flavor with this incredible Autumn Mash.

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Instant Pot Kale and Carrots

Pressure Cooker Braised Kale and Carrots by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo https://nomnompaleo.com. Tender kale and carrots, a healthy and vibrant side dish.

Instant Pot Braised Kale and Carrots

Average Rating: 5 from 13 votes
For a simple yet profoundly delicious and nutritious side dish that won’t monopolize your stovetop during holiday preparations, try our Instant Pot Kale and Carrots. Tender kale and sweet carrots are quickly braised in the pressure cooker, emerging perfectly cooked and infused with rich flavors. This convenient recipe is ideal for busy Thanksgiving cooks, allowing you to free up oven and stovetop space for other essential dishes while still serving a vibrant and healthy vegetable option that tastes incredibly comforting.

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Air Fryer Carrots

An overhead shot of air fryer roasted carrots topped with ginger sesame dressing and fresh chives, a quick and easy side.

Air Fryer Carrots

Average Rating: 4.74 from 15 votes
Is your oven already packed with the turkey and other Thanksgiving essentials? No problem! These Air Fryer Carrots offer a fast, healthy, and incredibly delicious solution. This simple savory side dish can be on your table in approximately 20 minutes, delivering carrots that are beautifully golden brown and tender on the inside. What makes it even better? You don’t even need to peel or meticulously cut the carrots, saving you precious prep time and effort during the busy holiday season. It’s a convenient and flavorful way to serve everyone’s favorite root vegetable.

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Roasted Garlic Autumn Root Vegetable Mash

Roasted Garlic Autumn Root Vegetable Mash by Michelle Tam https://nomnompaleo.com. A rustic, colorful mash in a serving bowl, perfectly garnished.

Roasted Garlic Autumn Root Vegetable Mash

Average Rating: 5 from 6 votes
Thanksgiving dinner simply wouldn’t be complete without a generous serving of comforting mashed root vegetables. While traditional mashed potatoes will always hold a special place in our hearts, this vibrant Autumn Mash offers an even more appealing and flavorful alternative. Roasted garlic, parsnips, carrots, and cauliflower are blended into a creamy, colorful, and utterly delicious side. If you don’t have an Instant Pot, this is the original stovetop version of my beloved Autumn Mash, ensuring you can still achieve this spectacular dish with minimal fuss.

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Roasted Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic

A bowl filled with vibrant roasted green beans with lemon and garlic and two lemon slices, a fresh and zesty side.

Roasted Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic

Average Rating: 4.63 from 16 votes
Are you tired of the ubiquitous, often bland, and sometimes soggy green bean casserole that frequently appears at holiday gatherings? It’s time for an upgrade! These Roasted Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic will become your new favorite way to prepare this classic vegetable. Fresh green beans are tossed in a vibrant, zesty marinade of garlic and lemon, then roasted to a tender-crisp perfection. This quick and easy Whole30 and keto-friendly side dish can be on your table in about 20 minutes, offering a bright, fresh counterpoint that pairs beautifully with any holiday meal.

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Chinese Garlic Green Beans

A closeup shot of paleo, Whole30, and gluten free Chinese garlic green beans in a skillet, perfectly blistered and seasoned.

Chinese Garlic Green Beans

Average Rating: 4.92 from 12 votes
Craving an exciting Asian-inspired take on green beans for your Thanksgiving spread? Our Chinese Garlic Green Beans recipe is a simple, skillet-cooked wonder that delivers exceptional flavor. These tender and beautifully blistered green beans are prepared with a savory garlicky sauce, making them paleo, Whole30, gluten-free, and low-carb. It’s an incredibly quick and easy side dish that provides a delightful umami kick, offering a unique and refreshing departure from traditional holiday vegetable preparations.

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Roasted Kabocha Squash

Roasted Kabocha Squash by Michelle Tam https://nomnompaleo.com. Perfectly roasted slices of kabocha squash, a naturally sweet side.

Roasted Kabocha Squash

Average Rating: 4.71 from 61 votes
Experience the unique delight of Roasted Kabocha Squash, my absolute favorite way to prepare this exquisite winter squash. When roasted to perfection, this Japanese pumpkin develops a sweet, nutty flavor and a tender, flaky texture strikingly similar to roasted chestnuts. It’s naturally sweet, wholesome, and incredibly easy to make, adding an elegant and flavorful touch to your holiday spread. Roasted kabocha squash pairs exceptionally well with turkey and all the traditional trimmings, making it a must-try side for your Thanksgiving feast.

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World’s Best Braised Cabbage

An overhead shot of the world's best braised green cabbage, carrot coins, and sliced onions in an oval casserole pan. Two hands are holding the handles with towels, suggesting it's hot and ready to serve.

World’s Best Braised Cabbage

Average Rating: 4.78 from 120 votes
Transform a humble head of cabbage into a tender, savory, and truly show-stopping vegetable with this recipe for the World’s Best Braised Cabbage. This fantastic make-ahead side dish is a lifesaver for Thanksgiving, as it can be prepared in advance and simply warmed up when you’re ready to serve. It’s a Whole30-friendly recipe that demonstrates how a simple ingredient can be elevated to extraordinary heights, delivering a depth of flavor and comforting texture that will impress every guest and perfectly complement your holiday meal.

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Swiss Chard with Raisins, Pine Nuts, and Crispy Prosciutto

Swiss Chard with Raisins, Pine Nuts, and Porkitos by Michelle Tam / Nom Nom Paleo https://nomnompaleo.com. A rustic, vibrant dish of cooked chard with crispy pork bits.

Swiss Chard with Raisins, Pine Nuts, and Crispy Prosciutto

Average Rating: 4.70 from 10 votes
The very thought of a warm plate of tender Swiss chard, cooked with sizzling garlic and generously tossed with crunchy pine nuts and sweet raisins, is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. But when you crumble some crispy “Porkitos” (crispy prosciutto) on top, all your stresses and worries might just disappear. This hearty Whole30 vegetable side dish is packed with a delightful interplay of flavors, textures, and nutrition. It’s one of my all-time favorite ways to serve Swiss chard, making it an unexpectedly delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table that guests will talk about long after the feast is over.

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Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Whole Roasted Cauliflower by Michelle Tam https://nomnompaleo.com. A beautifully roasted whole cauliflower, golden and tender.

Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Average Rating: 4.76 from 100 votes
For a truly show-stopping side dish that is both elegant and incredibly simple, try our Whole Roasted Cauliflower. This recipe transforms a humble head of cauliflower into a stunning centerpiece that is Whole30-friendly, keto, and vegan. Requiring only three basic ingredients, this dish is not only budget-friendly and easy to make, but it’s also guaranteed to impress your guests with its tender texture and subtly sweet, roasted flavor. It’s an excellent way to add a sophisticated, healthy vegetable option to your holiday menu without any fuss.

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Heartwarming Thanksgiving Soup Recipes

As the autumn chill sets in, a warm bowl of soup can be the perfect start or a comforting addition to your Thanksgiving feast. This selection of Paleo and Whole30 compatible soups offers creamy textures and rich flavors, providing a delightful contrast to the heartier elements of the meal. These recipes are designed to be both nourishing and incredibly satisfying, making them ideal for a cozy holiday gathering.

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup

A black bowl filled with creamy Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup on a wooden cutting board, garnished with fresh herbs.

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup

Average Rating: 4.91 from 21 votes
Got an Instant Pot and craving a cozy, comforting soup that’s perfect for fall and winter holidays? Our Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup is incredibly easy to make, boasts a wonderfully “bacon-y” depth of flavor, and is completely Whole30-friendly. This velvety smooth soup provides a delightful warmth and sweetness, making it an excellent starter or a lighter course for your Thanksgiving meal. For those without an Instant Pot, a slow cooker option is also available, ensuring everyone can enjoy this luscious, seasonal favorite.

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Carrot Cardamom Soup

An overhead shot of Carrot Ginger Soup with Cardamom in a shallow soup bowl, vibrant and garnished.

Easy Creamy Carrot Ginger Soup with Cardamom

Average Rating: 4.92 from 23 votes
If you’re craving a creamy, comforting vegetable soup to grace your Thanksgiving table, our Whole30-friendly Carrot Cardamom Soup is the answer. This bright and aromatic soup is like sunshine in a bowl—cozy, vibrantly colored, and completely dairy-free, thanks to clever use of cashews or coconut milk. Its unique blend of sweet carrots, warming ginger, and fragrant cardamom creates an exquisite flavor profile that delights the senses. Best of all, this soup can be easily made ahead on the stovetop or in your Instant Pot, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your holiday meal.

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Pea Soup with Crispy Prosciutto

A closeup shot of vibrant green pea soup with crispy prosciutto on top, ready to be served.

Creamy Pea Soup with Crispy Prosciutto (Dairy-free!)

Average Rating: 5 from 4 votes
This quick and creamy dairy-free pea soup is like a taste of spring in a bowl, yet it can be enjoyed all year round, making it a refreshing option for your Thanksgiving menu. This Whole30-compatible soup beautifully combines the sweetness of fresh or frozen peas with the decadent creaminess achieved through soaked cashews, not heavy cream. A burst of fresh mint and a squeeze of lemon juice add an extra zing that brightens every spoonful. Topping it off with crispy prosciutto (“Porkitos”) provides a delightful salty crunch, elevating this simple soup to an elegant and satisfying appetizer or light course.

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Instant Pot Cream of Mushroom Soup

Instant Pot Cream of Mushroom Soup by Michelle Tam / https://nomnompaleo.com. A rich and creamy bowl of mushroom soup, perfect for a cozy meal.

Instant Pot Cream of Mushroom Soup

Average Rating: 5 from 7 votes
If you consider yourself an umami evangelist, this Instant Pot Cream of Mushroom Soup recipe is designed to captivate your taste buds. This rich, earthy, and intensely flavorful soup is a dairy-free, Whole30, and keto-friendly dream come true. Using the Instant Pot, you can achieve a deeply satisfying cream of mushroom soup in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. It’s an excellent choice for a sophisticated holiday appetizer or a comforting addition to your Thanksgiving meal, providing a burst of savory depth that will impress any mushroom lover.

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Cream of Tomato Soup

An overhead shot of four bowls filled with Whole30-friendly, paleo, and dairy-free Cream of Tomato Soup topped with fresh basil leaves.

Cream of Tomato Soup (Paleo, Whole30, Dairy-Free)

Average Rating: 4.75 from 31 votes
Discover a vibrant, dairy-free twist on the comforting classic: our Cream of Tomato Soup is a simple, delicious, and economical crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any holiday gathering. This velvety blend features fire-roasted tomatoes and aromatic leeks, enhanced with the richness of creamy coconut milk to create a truly satisfying texture without any dairy. In about 20 minutes, you’ll whip up a soul-warming, dairy-free tomato soup that offers a bright, tangy contrast to your heavier Thanksgiving dishes, guaranteed to warm your guests from the inside out.

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Fresh Thanksgiving Salad Recipes

In the midst of rich gravies and decadent casseroles, a fresh, crisp salad can be a welcome palate cleanser at your Thanksgiving meal. Our selection of Paleo and Whole30 compatible salads offers vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and a light, refreshing counterpoint to the traditional holiday fare. These recipes are designed to be both healthy and delicious, proving that salads can indeed be star players on your holiday table.

Asparagus Mimosa

An overhead shot of a rectangular plate filled with Asparagus Mimosa, cooked asparagus tossed with a lemon vinaigrette and topped with chopped hard boiled eggs and chives. It’s a beautifully presented dish.

Asparagus Mimosa (Whole30, Paleo, Keto)

Average Rating: 4.91 from 11 votes
Asparagus Mimosa, a classic French recipe, is the very embodiment of springtime elegance on a plate. This stunning dish features tender-crisp asparagus stalks, artfully tossed in a bright and zesty lemony vinaigrette, then crowned with fluffy, finely sieved hard-boiled eggs. Not only is it a beautiful and delicious addition to your Thanksgiving table, but it’s also the perfect make-ahead vegetable dish, allowing you to prepare it in advance and simply assemble before serving. This Whole30, Paleo, and Keto-friendly salad is a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday fare, ensuring your guests enjoy a burst of fresh flavor.

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Endive, Radicchio, and Apple Salad

Endive, Radicchio, and Apple Salad with Porkitos and Hazelnuts. A vibrant, crisp salad with contrasting colors and textures.

Endive and Apple Salad

Average Rating: 4.75 from 4 votes
Sometimes, amidst the rich and savory components of Thanksgiving dinner, you simply crave a light, crisp salad. This Endive, Radicchio, and Apple Salad hits all the right notes, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This Whole30-friendly salad is packed with the sweetness of fresh apples, the appealing bitterness of mixed greens like endive and radicchio, and the satisfying crunch of toasted hazelnuts and even crispy Prosciutto Chips. It’s the perfect winter salad, providing a refreshing counterpoint that beautifully complements the heartiness of your holiday turkey and gravy.

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Chopped Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing

An overhead shot of a big white bowl filled with a vegan and Whole30 chopped salad with sesame ginger dressing, colorful and inviting.

Asian Chopped Salad (Whole30, Vegan)

Average Rating: 4.88 from 16 votes
Looking for a fresh and incredibly tasty Asian-inspired chopped salad that’s big on flavor and remarkably low in effort? This vibrant salad, featuring a zesty Sesame Ginger Dressing, is a fantastic addition to any meal, especially your Thanksgiving spread. It’s naturally vegan and Whole30 compatible, making it an inclusive option for all your guests. Packed with crisp vegetables and a tangy, aromatic dressing, this salad is perfect as a refreshing side dish that offers a unique culinary experience. Your guests will undoubtedly love its vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch.

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Kale and Persimmon Salad

An overhead shot of two hands holding a large blue bowl filled with kale salad and persimmons and toasted almonds, a simple and delicious winter salad.

Kale and Persimmon Salad

Average Rating: 4.84 from 12 votes
Embrace the vibrant flavors of the season with this stunning Whole30-friendly Kale and Persimmon Salad. This easy-to-prepare winter salad combines nutrient-rich kale with the sweet, delicate notes of ripe persimmons, crunchy toasted almonds, and a bright, zippy lemon vinaigrette. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will absolutely hit the spot without demanding much effort. This salad is not only healthy and satisfying but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your holiday spread, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast.

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Red Cabbage Slaw with Tangy Carrot Vinaigrette

Overhead shot of Whole30 and paleo red cabbage slaw with tangy carrot and ginger dressing, vibrant and crunchy.

Red Cabbage Slaw with Tangy Carrot and Ginger Dressing

Average Rating: 4.78 from 27 votes
This colorful and wonderfully tangy Whole30-friendly red cabbage slaw offers a refreshing and exciting spin on a traditional coleslaw. The crisp texture of the cabbage, combined with a vibrant carrot and ginger dressing, creates a lively and palate-cleansing side dish. The bright acidity of this salad perfectly balances the richness of hearty turkey and creamy gravies, preventing your holiday meal from feeling too heavy. It’s a fantastic way to introduce fresh, zesty flavors to your Thanksgiving table, ensuring a well-rounded and delightful culinary experience for everyone.

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More Paleo and Whole30-compatible Thanksgiving recipes

This collection of Paleo and Whole30 Thanksgiving side dishes is just the beginning of what you can create for a healthier, yet equally indulgent, holiday feast. Whether you’re looking for flavorful alternatives to traditional dishes or simply want to add more nutrient-dense options to your spread, these recipes prove that healthy eating can be incredibly satisfying and delicious, especially during special occasions like Thanksgiving.

To further expand your holiday menu, make sure to check out my epic Paleo Thanksgiving recipe roundup. This comprehensive guide includes not only more tantalizing side dishes but also incredible dessert and stuffing recipes that are all Paleo and Whole30 compliant. Additionally, you’ll find a handy downloadable Thanksgiving menu and planning guide there, designed to help you organize your holiday cooking with ease and ensure a stress-free celebration.


Looking for even more recipe ideas to inspire your culinary adventures? Head on over to my comprehensive Recipe Index, where you’ll find a treasure trove of delicious and healthy dishes for every occasion. You’ll also discover exclusive recipes and cooking tips in my acclaimed cookbooks: Nom Nom Paleo: Food for Humans (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2013), a foundational guide to Paleo eating; Ready or Not! (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2017), focused on flexible, fast, and healthy meals; and my latest, Nom Nom Paleo: Let’s Go! (Andrews McMeel Publishing 2022), packed with travel-friendly and family-favorite recipes. Happy cooking!