Smoky Sides for Thanksgiving
What's on the menu besides turkey (or a nice Nolechek's Hickory Smoked Ham) and stuffing? We put some of our favorite Nolechek's side dishes together to help give you some ideas for new holiday side dish favorites. From creamy Bacon Mashed Potatoes to crisp Wedge Salads and caramelized Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, we have our Top 5 Thanksgiving Side Dish Ideas all picked out for you!
Wedge Salad
A wedge salad is a classic, but often forgotten side that is a complement to nearly any main dish. It's not only elegant - it's easy! Dress up your wedge with chopped and drained tomatoes, quick-pickled onions, and cooked, crumbled Nolechek's Hickory Smoked Bacon! Salt and pepper to taste and add a splash of your favorite blue cheese or green goddess dressing.
Creamy Spinach with Bacon
Popeye the Sailor was onto something when he said, “I'm strong to the finish 'cause I eats me spinach!” Spinach is a nutritional powerhouse that is loaded with fiber and nutrients. Even folks who don't care much for leafy greens will ask for seconds when you throw together a few delicious ingredients. Start by heating chopped Naturally Uncured Nolechek's Hickory Smoked Bacon until it renders some of its fat. Add some chopped onion and garlic and saute until onions are translucent and drain. Mix up a simple bechamel sauce with milk, butter, and flour. Stir it all together with blanched, chopped spinach, salt and pepper to taste - and get ready to watch everyone gobble gobble their vegetables!
Easy Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Need a quick and easy side for the holiday spread? We've got you covered with this easy all in one baking sheet side dish. Simply toss trimmed and halved brussels sprouts, chopped garlic and chopped Nolechek's Hickory Smoked Peppered Bacon onto a lightly greased baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Bake at 425°F until sprouts are charred and bacon is crispy. Toss with balsamic vinegar and salt and pepper to taste. Did we mention that this easy, delicious side dish is also keto-friendly?
Bacon Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are mandatory for holiday meals at our house. If that's the case at your house, you can still easily elevate your spuds by mashing in
shredded LaGrander's Premium Wisconsin Cheese and top with crumbled Nolechek's Hickory Smoked Bacon and scallions.
Bacon and Smoked Gouda Mashed Cauliflower
Just because you're watching carbs, that doesn't mean you have to give up the flavor and texture of everyone's favorite side dish. This keto-friendly, gluten-free side will satisfy any mashed potato lover. Start with cooked and crumbled bacon. Then combine cauliflower, heavy cream, butter and boil until cauliflower is soft. Add salt, pepper and garlic to taste. Combine the mixture with crumbled bacon and shredded Marieke Gouda True Farmstead Cheese in your food processor and blend until smooth and creamy.
We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving!
- Nolechek’s Meats
