Christmas is just around the corner, and while the mains often steal the spotlight, it’s the sides that humbly balance and bring the meal (and even sometimes the guests) together. Whether you’re in charge of Christmas lunch or dinner, lighter sides help cut through rich flavours while still feeling celebratory. These versatile options work beautifully with almost any menu. They’re designed to please a mix of tastes, appetites, and dietary needs.
Festive sides to balance your Christmas table
When catering for a range of palates, appetites and dietary requirements, it’s a great idea to include two to three sides that can double up. Think vegan- or vegetarian-friendly dishes, simple flavour combinations, and at least one gluten-free or dairy-free option that everyone can enjoy.
1. Raspberry salad wreath
This bright salad wreath screams festive. It’s an absolute showstopper for the table and has a little bit of something for everyone. The best part? It’s totally customisable. Replace the goat’s cheese with a vegan alternative, and the prosciutto with pickled beetroot, to make a vegan/vegetarian side. Or remove the cheese completely for a dairy-free side.
2. Mustard potato salad
What South African table is complete without the classic potato salad? Our mustard potato salad adds interest and zing to the festive table, helping those craving seconds (or even thirds) fill the spot. The mustard also helps cleanse the palate and cut through fatty or rich mains. Not only is it the perfect palate cleanser, but it’s gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free and vegan, too. Simply swap out the mayonnaise for a vegan alternative. Potato salad is clearly a classic for good reason.
3. Green beans with buttered almonds
Elegant, simple, fresh, and naturally gluten-free, these green beans add crunch and interest to any festive table. Omit the butter for a vegan-friendly and dairy-free option, or omit the nuts if any guests are allergic (you can replace them with Parmesan shavings).
4. Coleslaw with lemon and orange dressing
Coleslaw is notorious at any table with rich and fatty mains. It’s crisp and fresh, tangy and sweet – the perfect side for glazed gammon and roasted leg of lamb. Whether you like your slaw with a zesty citrus dressing or a mayonnaise base, it will definitely be a welcome side that balances heavier meals without overpowering them.
5. Hasselback butternuts with bay leaves, cinnamon and sage
Gently spiced and naturally sweet, roasted butternuts work just as well for vegetarians as they do alongside a roast. If you’re not really into the sage and cinnamon combo, why not try thyme and cumin? Or make it sweeter by adding some brown sugar and omitting the sage and bay leaves. Or keep it super simple by adding salt, pepper and some fresh lemon zest. The options are endless – and they will all work alongside your other dishes on the table.
