With the holiday season soon arriving and Thanksgiving on the horizon, it’s almost the season of constant dinners, get-togethers, parties and potlucks. Instead of relying on the same recipes that you use every year, why not switch it up and make a pumpkin side dish to serve at your next party? These five side dish recipes are sure to be party pleasers.
Roasted Pumpkin Salad
Winter vegetables like pumpkin are often best when roasted, and this roasted pumpkin salad brings out the sweet pumpkin flavor with a dressing made of honey, balsamic vinegar and olive oil. The addition of crunchy pine nuts to the soft salad makes for a delicious combination of textures.
Try the recipe: Roasted Pumpkin Salad from Taste.com.
Pumpkin Sage Biscuits
No party guest can resist a good biscuit, and these pumpkin sage biscuits are sure to have people complimenting the unique pumpkin twist. The addition of Greek yogurt to the recipe makes the biscuits spongy and moist. They only take 30 minutes to prepare and cook, so they’re a great recipe for when you’re running low on time. For a complete meal, try pairing them with a vegetable side dish and a lean source of protein, such as Tilapia.
Try the recipe: Pumpkin Sage Biscuits from Sweet Peas and Saffron.
Pumpkin Mashed Potatoes
Want to take your creamy, homemade mashed potatoes to the next level? Try this unique, pumpkin-based twist. They’re made exactly the same way as regular mashed potatoes—you just need to add canned pumpkin in at the very end. If you like your pumpkin with a little spice, add in a bit of nutmeg and cinnamon for a dash of holiday flavor.
Try the recipe: Pumpkin Mashed Potatoes from Reluctant Entertainer.
Spicy Roast Pumpkin Wedges
With only five ingredients, these spicy roast pumpkin wedges are super healthy and easy to prepare. The sweet flavor of the pumpkin is complemented by pepper and cumin, and brought out by the long roasting time. The soft texture and spicy notes of the dish would pair perfectly with a firm, mild fish such as Tilapia.
Try the recipe: Spicy Roast Pumpkin Wedges from Taste.com.
Steamed Pumpkin and Baby Bok Choi
If you have anyone with a restricted diet coming to your party, this steamed pumpkin and baby bok choi recipe is a great choice for a side dish: it’s both vegan and paleo. Asian flavors like sesame, garlic and ginger complement the mild flavors and textures of the bok choi and pumpkin. And since it takes only 25 minutes to prepare, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests.
Try the recipe: Steamed Pumpkin and Baby Bok Choi from Gourmande in the Kitchen.
Pumpkin is a popular option this time of year, but you don’t have to limit yourself to pies. These side dish recipes provide a fun way to add some vitamin A and seasonal flair to your dinner parties.
Eager to try these recipes at home? Consult our store locator to find your nearest Tilapia retailer.
Photo credits: Sweet Peas and Saffron, Lapina Maria / Shutterstock.com, Sweet Peas and Saffron, Reluctant Entertainer, Daniel S Edwards / Shutterstock.com, Gourmande in the Kitchen