The victory of light over darkness—and delicious food—is celebrated on Diwali. People from around the world gather to celebrate and enjoy delectable Diwali recipes with friends, family, and loved ones over the five-day celebration.
However, this year's Diwali may look a little different. Perhaps your Festival of Lights event will be small and private, or perhaps you intend to have a slightly larger party in your backyard (with some heated seating) as a final get-together before winter arrives. Either way, you'll need a lot of healthy food.
Some people may abstain from meat throughout the festival season, so the cuisine at these gatherings includes a number of non-vegetarian options that are not customary. There is something for everyone, though, including cheesy appetisers, substantial main courses, and an abundance of desserts. Don't worry; there are also plenty of vegetarian options.
Regarding food and Diwali, one cannot overlook the side dishes. Side dishes improve the taste of the main entrée. These will help you get ready and wow your guests.
7 Creative Side Dishes To Have At Diwali Dinner Party
Herbed Tomato Gratin
A crispy crouton or breadcrumb coating is a common feature of vegetable gratin dishes. However, because tomatoes are too beautiful to conceal, crunchy bread cubes can be placed underneath them. Additionally, the bread absorbs all of the delicious juice from the tomato. For Diwali festivities, fresh basil or oregano works well in place of marjoram if unavailable.
Roasted Savoy Cabbage With Orange Vinaigrette
There aren't many simple Savoy cabbage recipes, particularly ones as good as this roasted cabbage. During the lengthy cooking process, the outer cabbage leaves turn black, but the centre is incredibly tender when removed. The vinaigrette poured over the top has a subtle scent of the orange blossom water. Serve as a main dish over mashed potatoes or with roast paneer.
Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)
This variation of surimono (Japanese cucumber salad) includes English or sliced cucumbers, which are more easily obtained. However, if you live close to an Asian market, you could use Japanese cucumbers instead. You can squeeze the cucumbers in paper towels to eliminate enough surplus moisture without adding extra sodium, even though some recipes ask for salting them first. This crisp, cold, and incredibly tasty salad with a Japanese flair is ideal for a Diwali celebration.
Marinated Cucumber & Tomato Salad
You can simply personalise this marinated salad, a great way to enjoy those fresh vegetables. Try adding some feta cheese or fresh herbs for a little extra flavour. For an extra flavour boost, you may also use seasoned pepper, enhanced with extra ingredients, instead of the regular ground pepper.
Buttery Sautéed Mushrooms With Fresh Herbs
Cover the mushrooms for the first few minutes of cooking to help them release their moisture. When the mushrooms are exposed, the moisture evaporates and turns brown. The end product is a delicious, adaptable batch of mushrooms that can be spooned over steak, eaten as a side dish, or tossed into hot pasta for a simple Diwali meal. The addition of coconut aminos gives the mushrooms an extra umami boost.
Sheet-pan roasted Halloumi & Broccolini
Briny Halloumi has a nice crackle on the outside and a delightful stretchiness similar to fresh mozzarella when cooked. Its character is almost meaty. Here, the Halloumi and broccoli can be charred in a hot oven, creating a savoury crunch that perfectly balances the herbaceous gremolata sauce drizzled over them.
Cauliflower Cheese
Add some soothing cauliflower cheese to your turkey or roast chicken dinner. With only six easily accessible ingredients, this vegetarian jewel ensures a simple preparation that won't break the bank. Or, for a richer option, try this next-level cauliflower cheese, which has a strong cayenne and mustard flavour.
Use these recipes for side dishes to celebrate the Hindu festival of lights and have a great Diwali. To serve a party, combine these Diwali recipes with curries, exotic biryanis, fluffy Indian flatbreads, and many more delectable meals.