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A Healthy Holiday Table: Whole-Food, Plant-Based Thanksgiving Side Dish

veggie bowl
By: Dr. Latia Ilyadis

At Island Health Concierge Medicine, we believe that food is one of the most powerful forms of medicine. As a Concierge Physician board-certified in Lifestyle Medicine, I encourage my patients to enjoy the holidays while also nourishing their bodies with foods that promote wellness, energy, and longevity.

This Thanksgiving, try adding this beautiful, delicious, and heart-healthy side dish to your table. It’s whole-food, plant-based, and free of processed oils — allowing the natural flavors and nutrients to shine through.

 Roasted Harvest Veggies with Maple-Balsamic Glaze

A vibrant, nutrient-rich dish that celebrates the flavors of fall — perfect for your Thanksgiving table.

Why You’ll Love It

This side dish is packed with fiber, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory nutrients that support digestion, immune health, and balanced blood sugar. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, while the maple-balsamic glaze ties everything together with a festive touch.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 cups carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 medium red onion, sliced
  • 2 cups cauliflower florets
  • 2 tbsp 100% pure maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
  • ¼ tsp sea salt (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnish: pomegranate seeds and fresh parsley

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Combine all vegetables in a large bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Toss the vegetables in the glaze until evenly coated.
  5. Spread on the baking sheet in a single layer.
  6. Roast for 30–35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until vegetables are tender and caramelized.
  7. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and parsley before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Dr. Ilyadis’ Lifestyle Medicine Tip

Whole-food, plant-based dishes like this one can help reduce inflammation, support heart health, and promote healthy weight management — even during the holidays. Remember, living well doesn’t mean giving up tradition; it means redefining it in ways that help you thrive.

From our Island Health Concierge Medicine family to yours — wishing you a vibrant, healthy, and joyful Thanksgiving!