30 Creative Boxing Day Sides Recipe: Perfect Pairings for Festivities

Boxing Day can be just as festive and joyful as Christmas Day itself, especially when it comes to food. After the big feast, I always find that there's still room for delicious sides to keep the celebrations going. Whether you’re gathering with family, friends, or just indulging in some alone time, the right side dish can elevate your meal to new heights.

I've compiled 30 creative Boxing Day sides recipes that will pair perfectly with whatever main dish you’re serving, making your festivities even more special. From savory stuffing to zesty salads, these recipes are sure to satisfy everyone's taste buds and make your holiday memorable.

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

These crispy potatoes are a crowd-pleaser with their irresistible garlic and parmesan flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs baby potatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the baby potatoes in half or quarters.
3. In a mixing bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley before serving.

2. Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

A fresh and tangy coleslaw that’s perfect for cutting through rich holiday meals.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 head of green cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 head of red cabbage, shredded
• 1 apple, julienned
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the green and red cabbage, apple, cranberries, and pecans.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

3. Maple-Glazed Carrots

Sweet and savory, these carrots are a simple yet elegant side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb baby carrots
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the carrots for 4-5 minutes.
2. Drain the carrots and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the maple syrup, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
5. Add the carrots to the skillet and toss to coat.
6. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.

4. Herb-Infused Wild Rice

A hearty and aromatic dish that pairs well with any main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup wild rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Rinse the wild rice under cold water.
2. In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
3. Add the wild rice, reduce heat, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
5. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
6. Add the cooked wild rice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

5. Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

These caramelized Brussels sprouts are a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and honey.
5. Drizzle the balsamic mixture over the roasted Brussels sprouts and toss to coat.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

6. Classic Bread Stuffing

A traditional side that’s moist, flavorful, and a must-have for any holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of French bread, cubed
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups chopped onion
• 1 1/2 cups chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried sage
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and butter a large baking dish.
2. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10-15 minutes until lightly browned.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onion and celery until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and beaten eggs, mixing well.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

7. Sweet Potato Casserole

This rich and creamy casserole is topped with a crunchy pecan streusel.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Topping:

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Boil the sweet potatoes until tender, then drain and mash.
3. In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter.
6. Sprinkle the pecan mixture over the sweet potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.

8. Green Bean Almondine

A classic dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Blanch the green beans in salted boiling water for 4-5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in the almonds and toast until golden brown.
5. Add the green beans and toss to coat.
6. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper before serving.

9. Cheesy Cauliflower Bake

A creamy, cheesy dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Boil the cauliflower florets in salted water for 5-7 minutes until tender.
3. Drain and set aside.
4. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Gradually add the milk, whisking until the sauce thickens.
7. Stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted.
8. Combine the cauliflower with the cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
9. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

10. Honey Glazed Ham

A succulent ham that’s sweet, savory, and perfect for Boxing Day.

Ingredients:

• 1 fully-cooked ham (6-8 lbs)
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. Place the ham in a roasting pan.
3. In a bowl, mix together the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves.
4. Brush half of the glaze over the ham.
5. Cover the ham with foil and bake for 1 1/2 hours.
6. Remove the foil, brush on the remaining glaze, and bake for an additional 30 minutes.

11. Lemon Herb Couscous

Light, fluffy, and zesty, this couscous is the perfect side for any festive occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
2. Stir in the couscous and remove from heat. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Fluff the couscous with a fork.
4. Stir in the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, mint, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.

12. Roasted Beet Salad

With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this salad is a showstopper.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium beets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• Mixed greens

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and cut into wedges.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss the beets with the dressing.
6. Arrange the mixed greens on a platter, top with dressed beets, goat cheese, and walnuts.

13. Creamed Spinach

Rich, creamy, and comforting, this dish is a holiday classic.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Blanch the spinach in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and chop.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the chopped spinach and cook until the mixture thickens.
6. Serve warm.

14. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

These tasty bundles are perfect for a festive table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb asparagus spears, trimmed
• 8 slices bacon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Wrap bundles of 3-4 asparagus spears with a single slice of bacon.
3. Place the bundles on a baking sheet.
4. Brush with olive oil and honey, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.

15. Garlic Butter Mushrooms

These savory mushrooms are packed with umami flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb button mushrooms, cleaned and trimmed
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add the mushrooms, cooking until browned and tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the parsley.
5. Serve warm.

16. Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

Tangy and creamy, this pasta salad offers a refreshing take on traditional versions.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 cup diced dill pickles
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup sliced celery
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons pickle juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, dill pickles, red onion, and celery.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture and toss to coat.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

17. Butternut Squash Soup

This smooth and velvety soup is comforting and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add the butternut squash, vegetable broth, ginger, and cinnamon.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot.

18. Quinoa Salad with Pomegranate

Nutritious and festive, this quinoa salad is perfect for the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
2. In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
3. Add the quinoa, reduce heat, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked.
4. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let cool.
5. In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, pomegranate seeds, cucumber, red onion, mint, and parsley.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss to coat.
8. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

19. Spicy Roasted Chickpeas

These crunchy chickpeas are a perfect snack or crunchy topping for salads.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
4. Roast for 30-35 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until the chickpeas are crispy.
5. Let cool before serving.

20. Broccoli and Cheddar Rice

This cheesy, veggie-packed rice is a winner for any side dish spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
2. Add the rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 18-20 minutes.
3. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets on top of the rice, then re-cover.
4. Stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted.
5. Serve warm.

21. Apple Cranberry Chutney

A tangy-sweet relish that pairs beautifully with ham or turkey.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, apples, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, cinnamon, and cloves.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened.
3. Let the chutney cool to room temperature.
4. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.

22. Loaded Mashed Potatoes

These creamy mashed potatoes are taken to the next level with bacon, cheese, and green onions.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. Add sour cream, milk, butter, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth.
4. Stir in 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions.
5. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.
6. Serve warm.

23. Caprese Salad

Fresh, light, and bursting with flavor, this salad is a beautiful addition to any festive table.

Ingredients:

• 4 large tomatoes, sliced
• 1 lb fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup balsamic reduction
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange slices of tomatoes and mozzarella on a serving platter, alternating each slice.
2. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella slices.
3. Drizzle with balsamic reduction and olive oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve immediately.

24. Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

A healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 4 cloves garlic, roasted
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
2. Drain and transfer to a food processor.
3. Add roasted garlic, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, butter, salt, and pepper.
4. Blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Serve warm.

25. Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart

This savory tart is an elegant side dish that's perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 25-30 minutes.
4. Roll out the puff pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the puff pastry.
6. Sprinkle with goat cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.

26. Sauteed Green Beans with Toasted Almonds

A simple yet delicious side dish that adds a touch of elegance to your meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Blanch the green beans in a pot of boiling salted water for 4-5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the almonds and toast until golden brown.
4. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant.
5. Add the green beans and toss to coat.
6. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve warm.

27. Cornbread Muffins

These moist and slightly sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for sopping up gravy and other holiday sauces.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Spoon the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Serve warm.

28. Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Mushrooms

These bite-sized stuffed mushrooms are a perfect appetizer or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large button mushrooms, stems removed
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and spinach, cooking until wilted.
4. In a bowl, mix together the cooked spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon the filling into the mushroom caps.
6. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender.
7. Serve warm.

29. Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta Salad

This vibrant pasta salad is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for the festive season.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomato pesto
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sun-dried tomato pesto, cherry tomatoes, black olives, feta cheese, and basil.
3. Toss to coat the ingredients evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

30. Pumpkin Dinner Rolls

These soft and fluffy rolls have a subtle pumpkin flavor and a beautiful golden color.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg
• 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, sugar, pumpkin puree, egg, and yeast. Mix well.
2. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 pieces. Shape into rolls and place on a greased baking sheet.
6. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
8. Bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Serve warm.

These 30 creative Boxing Day sides recipes to make your festivities a hit! From indulgent casseroles to zesty salads, there's something here to complement every main dish and satisfy every palate. Enjoy these delicious additions to your holiday table and make Boxing Day something truly special.