Round Out Your Meal With These Go-With-Anything Winter Sides

November 09, 2017
Credit: Caitlin Bensel
Between indulgent seasonal feasts, treat your palate to fast, healthy weeknight fare that doesn't skimp on flavor. These simple sides lighten the seasonal calorie load deliciously.
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Fennel, Tomato, and Feta Skillet Bake

Credit: Jennifer Causey
View Recipe: Fennel, Tomato, and Feta Skillet Bake

Fresh fennel becomes mellow and sweet once sautéed and braised in chopped, strained tomatoes. If you can’t find Pomì brand, drain about 1/3 of the liquid from a (15-oz.) can of unsalted diced tomatoes. Pair this simple, beautiful side with baked fish or lemon-and-herb roasted chicken.

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Bacon-and-Apple Braised Cabbage

Credit: Caitlin Bensel
View Recipe: Bacon-and-Apple Braised Cabbage

We add sweet (brown sugar) and tangy (sherry vinegar) flavors toward the end of braising so they stand out in the finished dish. Serve with roast pork or braised beef.

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Creamed Curried Spinach

Credit: Jennifer Causey
View Recipe: Creamed Curried Spinach

Curry powder adds warmth and earthiness to this speedy version of creamed spinach. Whole milk yogurt gives the side a luscious mouth feel and plenty of body. Serve with steak or with seared planks of spice-rubbed tofu.

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Spanish-Style Roasted Potatoes

Credit: Jennifer Causey
View Recipe: Spanish-Style Roasted Potatoes

Paprika, fresh oregano, and olives turn everyday roasted potatoes into a spectacular side. Serve with a chorizo-flecked frittata or pan-grilled steak or chicken.

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Maple-Butternut Puree

Credit: Caitlin Bensel
View Recipe: Maple-Butternut Puree

Carotene-rich butternut squash gives this starchy mash a healthy boost. A food processor will get the mixture silky smooth. Pair with any seared or roasted protein.

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Warm Potato and Pancetta Salad

Credit: Caitlin Bensel
View Recipe: Warm Potato And Pancetta Salad

Buttery, thin-skinned fingerlings cook quickly, and prediced pancetta (such as Boar's Head) saves prep time. Serve with a greens-stuffed omelet or seared fish fillets. 

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Sherry-Glazed Parsnips With Pomegranate

Credit: Jennifer Causey
View Recipe: Sherry-Glazed Parsnips with Pomegranate

Sweet parsnips are an excellent match for the sherry glaze. Remember to remove their tough peels; these won’t soften in the pan. Try this side with a mild protein such as roasted chicken or pork loin.

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Kale, Farro, and Feta Salad

Credit: Caitlin Bensel
View Recipe: Kale, Farro, and Feta Salad

This satisfying winter salad is full of texture and color. Pair with roasted chicken thighs or as a side for pureed veggie soup. Top leftovers with cooked chicken and diced apple for tomorrow's lunch.

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