The Best of Southern Thanksgiving Sides
The Best of Southern Thanksgiving Sides
Several years ago, our SAPi founder Brandon Gantt had an epiphany over Mac and Cheese. Ok, it was arguably about more than one of the best Thanksgiving sides ever introduced to the family table; it was about where to find it.
This happened in COVID times when grocers were understocked and understaffed, and many restaurants were closed or reduced to takeaway (let’s never go back!). So on a hunt to put together a proper Thanksgiving dinner, the kind with all the choices and traditional fixings, he started calling around to friends and family.
Southern Fixings (Courtesy of Eat This, Not That)
Who could bring the Mac and Cheese? Who’s on top of mashed potatoes? Whose secret recipe for sweet potatoes pie was poised and ready?
Although this wasn’t the whole story, it played a big part in Save A Plate’s (SAPi) inspiration. How can we connect local plates with local people? Everyone knows that the special touch that real people give to their signature dishes is what makes them unique. So how can we support local foodpreneurs and local bellies at the same time? And thus, SAPi’s seed was planted.
Today the SAPi APP connects a diverse group of local foodies with plates as diverse as they are delicious. And you might tjust be able to find your favorite holiday sides covered as well.
In honor of the upcoming holidays and all the side dishes that get our stomachs growling, we’re covering the Best Of Southern Thanksgiving sides – look for local plates in your area on the SAPi APP!
Top Five Best Southern Holiday Side Dishes
Southern Living Fried Pecan Okra (Photo: Beth Dreiling Hontzas)
Fried Pecan Okra
Fried okra is an institution in the south year-round – but for the holidays, you can level up this classic dish with pecan infused breading. Giving the pecans a quick toasting session in the oven makes all the difference.
Try these fried pecan okra recipes from Southern Living’s or Spicy Southern Kitchen
Cooking Classy: Creamy Confetti Corn with Bacon
Creamy Fried Confetti Corn
Everyone should have a corn casserole in their holiday arsenal of go-to recipes. This dish gives it all; creamy, savory, and filling. Bacon, rainbow confetti of chopped peppers, and cream cheese round out this party pleaser.
Try these recipes for a confetti corn casserole from Southern Living or Cooking Classy
Taste of Home : Black Eyed Peas
Southern Black-Eyed Peas
Historically black-eyed peas have been associated with a “mystical and mythical power to bring good luck.” So you’re not only coming through with a delicious dish but good vibes for the whole family, nice one! Traditionally Southern Black-Eyed Peas dishes have a good dose of pork belly, ham hock, or both.
Try these recipes for Southern Black Eyed Peas from Taste Of Home or Divas Can Cook
A Spicy Perspective: Southern Coleslaw
Coleslaw
Controversial for the traditionalists, but not for Southern tables who say that coleslaw absolutely belongs next to the turkey. When done right, it’s a Southern delicacy, and the secret is always in the sauce – a maker’s mix of mayo, vinegar, sugar, and spices.
Try these recipes for Southern Coleslaw from Barefeet In the Kitchen or A Spicy Perspective
Paula Deen : Jalapeno Hushpuppies
Jalapeno Hushpuppies
Cornbread in its fried form, no Southern holiday celebration is complete without a side of sharp cheddar and jalapeno-infused Hushpuppies. As the story goes, fishermen in the 1800s would toss their dogs some fried batter from fish fries to stop the puppies from begging, hence the “hushpuppy” moniker. This is a delicious ode to those who just can’t wait to eat!
Try these recipes for Jalapeno Hushpuppies from The Pioneer Woman or Paula Deen
We hope this inspired you to add to your cooking repertoire this holiday season. Southern or not; it’s always nice to spice things up!
Asian Fusion 
Indian Fusion
Jalapeno Popper Inspired – Why Didn’t We Think Of This Sooner
When Squash Meets Mac & Cheese 
Mac & Cheese That Clearly Wants To Be Chicken Wings 
Take Me To The Greek Isles