The Best Hanukkah Side Dish Recipes to Brighten Every Table
A medley of flavors brings new excitement to your holiday menu with each flavorful bite.
Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, is a joyous celebration that gathers friends and family around beautifully lit menorahs—and even more beautifully adorned tables. While iconic dishes like latkes and sufganiyot may get star billing, it’s often the supporting side dishes that turn a Hanukkah meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re seeking classic flavors or creative new twists, explore this curated guide to Hanukkah’s most beloved and inventive side dishes—all perfect for your holiday gatherings.
Classic Potato Latkes (Potato Pancakes)
Latkes are undoubtedly the quintessential Hanukkah side dish, symbolizing the miracle of oil. Crisp, golden, and irresistible, these fried potato pancakes are a must for most holiday tables.
- Traditional recipes use a blend of grated potatoes, onion, egg, and matzo meal or flour for binding.
- For extra crispiness, thoroughly squeeze liquids from grated potatoes.
- Serve hot with applesauce, sour cream, or a creamy Greek yogurt dip.
Root Vegetable Latkes
Give classic latkes a colorful, nutrient-rich twist by incorporating root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, parsnips, or carrots. These additions offer vibrant flavors and a beautiful hue to the crisp fritters.
- Mix and match root veggies with potatoes for new flavors.
- Crispy edges and a slightly sweet interior make these latkes a family favorite.
- Try pairing with a tangy applesauce or herbed yogurt dip for contrast.
Noodle Kugel: Sweet and Savory Variations
Noodle kugel is a traditional Jewish casserole combining egg noodles with eggs, dairy (such as sour cream or cottage cheese), and sweet or savory flavors. Kugel is as comforting as it is versatile and is a staple at Hanukkah gatherings.
- Savory Kugel: Incorporate onions, spinach, or cheese for a hearty, umami-rich side dish. Caramelized onions add deep flavor, while Greek yogurt can create a lighter version.
- Sweet Kugel: Try raisins, apples, or cinnamon for a delightful contrast to savory mains. Top with a crispy cinnamon cracker crumb for texture and flavor.
Spinach and Caramelized Onion Noodle Kugel
This hearty kugel puts a savory spin on the traditional recipe, blending caramelized onions and spinach with egg noodles for layers of earthy, sweet, and salty flavors. Greek yogurt lightens up the base without sacrificing richness.
- Double dose of onion (fresh and soup mix) pumps up umami.
- Spinach adds nutrition, color, and tenderness to the dish.
- Bake until golden and just set for best results.
Vegetable Dreidel Latkes
Bring Hanukkah tradition to life with adorable dreidel-shaped vegetable latkes. These playful treats let you experiment with new vegetables or use classic potato batters, all while delighting children and adults alike.
- Shape latkes using cookie cutters or by hand.
- Try incorporating zucchini, carrot, or beet for color.
- Balance with light dips or lemony sauces for extra zing.
Confetti Orzo
Confetti Orzo is a festive, colorful side that lightens up heavier Hanukkah fare. Tiny rice-shaped pasta is tossed with diced veggies and dressed lightly, making this dish a crowd-pleaser served hot or at room temperature.
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- Mix in bell peppers, carrots, scallions, and parsley for visual appeal and flavor.
- Toss in a tangy dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and optional feta crumbles.
- This dish keeps well, making it perfect for advance preparation.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Techina and Za’atar
Experience Middle Eastern inspiration with roasted butternut squash adorned with techina (tahini sauce) and za’atar, a savory herbal blend. The subtle sweetness of the squash meets the nutty depth of sesame and the fragrance of za’atar, accented by pine nuts for crunch.
- Cut squash into cubes and roast until caramelized.
- Drizzle with thick, creamy techina and a sprinkle of za’atar.
- Top with toasted pine nuts for added flavor and texture.
Roasted Carrot and Chickpea Salad in Harissa-Tahini Sauce
This vibrant and slightly spicy salad marries roasted carrots with crisped chickpeas, finished with a dynamic harissa (a North African chili paste)-tahini sauce. It’s a bold companion to richer main dishes or other sides.
- Roast carrots and chickpeas until golden and slightly crisp.
- Whisk harissa into tahini sauce for smoky heat.
- Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor development.
Broccoli Pastrami Sauté
This warming side dish features sautéed broccoli paired with the rich, salty flavor of pastrami. The combination adds a satisfying and unexpected heartiness to any Hanukkah spread.
- Sauté broccoli until tender-crisp.
- Add diced pastrami for a savory, meaty twist.
- Finish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
Zucchini Wedges with Tomato Chutney
Balanced between bright and savory, zucchini wedges are roasted then served with a spoonful of tangy-spiced tomato chutney. This dish provides an elegant contrast to the richer classics on the table.
- Roast zucchini wedges until just tender and golden.
- Top with a homemade or store-bought tomato chutney.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color and aroma.
Cabbage Twists
Cabbage Twists are flaky pastries filled with sweet or savory cabbage mixtures. These finger-friendly bites hark back to Ashkenazi Jewish traditions and add a crunchy texture to your Hanukkah meal.
- Shred and sauté cabbage with onions, caraway seeds, and spices.
- Fill strips of pastry, then twist and bake until golden.
- Serve warm as a snack or light side dish.
Quinoa Salad with Tahini Dressing
For a modern, nutritious addition, try a quinoa salad with a rich tahini dressing. This make-ahead friendly salad is as bright and flavorful as it is healthy—fitting beautifully into a festive meal.
- Combine cooked quinoa with chopped broccoli, cabbage, and bell pepper.
- Toss in a creamy, garlicky tahini dressing.
- Salad improves as it sits; prepare it in advance for convenience.
Stovetop Sweet Potato and Carrot Tzimmes
An old-world classic, tzimmes brings together sweet potatoes, carrots, and dried fruit in a lightly spiced, tender stew. This version is quicker on the stovetop but carries the same warmth and sweetness traditional to the festival.
- Simmer peeled and sliced sweet potatoes and carrots with dried apricots, prunes, and currants.
- Pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon adds holiday warmth.
- Serve as a colorful, sweet complement to savory main courses.
Air-Fried Artichokes
Lighten up the holiday table with crispy air-fried artichoke hearts. These easy-to-make bites offer a restaurant-worthy crunch with minimal oil.
- Drain and quarter canned artichoke hearts.
- Toss with olive oil, seasonings, and air fry until golden.
- Finish with lemon zest or a scatter of fresh herbs.
Sheet Pan Roasted Vegetables: Hanukkah Edition
A sheet pan of roasted vegetables—from Brussels sprouts and carrots to cauliflower and parsnips—brings both color and variety to your holiday menu. Simple preparation lets the flavors and fresh produce shine.
- Toss chosen vegetables with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Roast until caramelized, tossing halfway for even browning.
- Add finishing touches like za’atar, sumac, or toasted nuts.
Tips for Choosing and Pairing Hanukkah Side Dishes
- Balance flavors: Pair starchy selections like kugel or latkes with lighter salads or vegetable sides.
- Include fresh dishes: Crisp salads and quick-marinated vegetables provide freshness against richer fried or baked offerings.
- Add global inspiration: Draw on Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Ashkenazi influences to create an exciting, multi-dimensional spread.
- Make ahead: Many salads, kugels, and roasted vegetables keep well—reducing stress on busy holiday days.
Frequently Asked Questions: Hanukkah Side Dishes
Q: Can Hanukkah side dishes be made ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Kugel, tzimmes, roasted vegetables, and even many salads can be prepared in advance. Reheat gently, or serve room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Q: How do I get latkes crisp and golden?
A: Squeeze grated potatoes thoroughly to remove excess liquid, use a hot oil, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Drain latkes on paper towels and serve immediately for best results.
Q: What gluten-free Hanukkah side options are available?
A: Many dishes—including quinoa salad, roasted vegetables, and some flour-free latkes—can be made gluten-free. Substitute matzo meal with gluten-free alternatives if needed.
Q: Are there vegan-friendly Hanukkah side dishes?
A: Yes—consider roasted squash, tzimmes (without honey or with maple), quinoa salads, and many vegetable-forward dishes. Replace dairy and eggs with plant-based substitutes as needed.
Q: What sides compliment brisket or roast chicken for Hanukkah?
A: Try pairing savory noodle kugel, roasted carrot salads, crisp latkes, and fresh vegetable or grain salads. All offer a bright contrast to rich meat dishes.
Sample Hanukkah Side Dish Menu
| Dish | Type | Notable Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Potato Latkes | Traditional | Crisp, savory, comforting |
| Roasted Butternut Squash with Za’atar | Vegetable | Sweet, herbal, nutty |
| Spinach and Caramelized Onion Kugel | Kugel | Savory, rich, silky |
| Confetti Orzo Salad | Pasta/Grain | Bright, tangy, fresh |
| Cabbage Twists | Pastry | Crisp, aromatic, hearty |
| Roasted Carrot and Chickpea Salad | Vegetable/Salad | Spicy, earthy, creamy |
Final Thoughts: Curate Your Own Hanukkah Side Dish Spread
The beauty of Hanukkah lies not only in its traditions and lights but also in the diversity and warmth of the dishes shared. Whether you embrace time-honored classics or venture into new flavor territories with global influences, every side dish contributes to the celebratory spirit of the season. Mix and match these recipes to create a menu that delights your guests and brings out the best of your holiday table—one bite, one candle, one shared memory at a time.
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