Thanksgiving dinners are evolving with the times as families embrace healthier, fresher options in line with modern taste. The shift in lifestyle choices and the inclusion of other cultures’ cuisines have also influenced change, causing some Thanksgiving side dishes to be discarded.
Taking over dinner tables for Thanksgiving 2024 are roasted vegetables, breads, and dishes made from organic, and locally sourced ingredients. Here are some of the Thanksgiving side dishes making way for improved options in 2024.
Hot Dr. Pepper
While the Southern part of the US still enjoys this on the side for Thanksgiving, Hot Dr. Pepper did not make it to the list of side servings for Thanksgiving 2024. The trend began in the late ‘60s when Dr. Pepper urged families to try steaming hot soda with lemon slices.
Turkey leftover Jell-O and Jell-O salads
Jell-O dishes became popular after the Great Depression, giving rise to the Turkey leftover Jell-O made from Turkey, frozen veggies, cream of celery soup, and ranch dressing mixed with gelatin. Salads consisting of radishes, scallions, and a few tablespoons of vinegar were also common in the ‘60s but not anymore.
Ambrosia
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Like the Hot Dr. Pepper, Ambrosia remains a Southern Thanksgiving serving; however, it is fast going out of style. It has been popular since the early 1900s, containing canned fruit paired with mini marshmallows.
Canned Creamed Corn
Canned food, including the famous creamed corn from the late ‘40s, was ditched for fresh meals during 2024’s Thanksgiving. Back then, it was advertised as a can of smooth, creamy corn kernels perfect for after-meals.
Cranberry Surprise
Hellmann mayonnaise celebrated its 100th anniversary with a compilation of vintage advertisements and recipes including the Cranberry Surprise, which came in variations like relish, Jell-O, the bake, and the savory variant made with brie, bacon, or herbs.