5 Dried Fruits to Upgrade Your Thanksgiving Classics
For us, Thanksgiving means four generations gathered around one big table - passing plates, swapping stories, and always saving room for dessert.
Some of us swear by the classics, while others sneak in a few new twists every year. It’s the mix of old and new that makes it feel like home.
And one of our favorite ways to add unexpected (but totally delicious) flavor? Dried fruit (of course!)
Think of it as a small, simple upgrade to the holiday dishes you already know and love. Adding Mariani dried fruit to savory sides brings out their natural sweetness and makes the entire spread feel more special.
Here are a few easy swaps to get started:
Roasted Carrots with Prunes
Instead of: Brown sugar-glazed carrots
Try: Roasted carrots with Mariani Pitted Prunes, olive oil, and fresh thyme
Why it works: Prunes add a deep, rich sweetness that balances beautifully with caramelized carrots. Add a splash of balsamic and a sprinkle of sea salt to finish. It’s a rustic side that goes great on a holiday table.
Want more ways to pair prunes with savory flavors? Try these Prune & Goat Cheese Crostinis - they’re simple to prep and always a hit for holiday appetizers.
Stuffing with Raisins
Instead of: Classic stuffing with sausage or chestnuts
Try: Herb stuffing with Mariani California Raisins, celery, and toasted walnuts
Why it works: Raisins bring just the right touch of sweetness to balance the savory herbs and aromatics in traditional stuffing. They complement flavors like sage, rosemary, and thyme beautifully and add a little something extra to every bite. It’s a simple twist that makes this classic side feel a bit more festive, without straying too far from tradition.
For a more adventurous stuffing that still features dried fruit, check out our Cauliflower, Apricot & Sage Stuffing. It’s flavorful, flexible, and a great way to try something new this year.
Cranberry-Stuffed Acorn Squash
Instead of: Plain roasted squash
Try: Acorn squash halves filled with a mixture of cooked grains, Mariani Sweetened Dried Cranberries, chopped apples, and pecans
Why it works: This one looks impressive, but couldn’t be easier. The dried cranberries add tang, the apples and squash bring the fall vibes, and the whole dish feels cozy and complete.
Making your own cranberry sauce this year? Try our Homemade Cranberry Sauce - made with Mariani Dried Cranberries and packed with flavor. It’s one of those holiday staples you’ll make again and again.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Dried Cherries
Instead of: Brussels sprouts with bacon
Try: Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with Mariani Sweetened Dried Cherries, shallots, and a maple mustard glaze
Why it works: Sweet dried cherries and slightly bitter sprouts are a perfect match. This side also works great served warm or room temperature, so it’s one less thing to stress about during holiday prep.
Dried Apricots in Grain Salads
Instead of: Traditional rice pilaf
Try: Warm farro salad with Mariani Dried Apricots, chopped kale, toasted almonds, and lemon dressing
Why it works: Chewy dried apricots add pops of sweetness to every bite. This one is great for potlucks, buffet-style dinners, or making your leftovers feel a little fresher the next day.
Small touches can make a big impact on your holiday table. Adding dried fruit to your favorite sides is an easy way to introduce new flavor, color, and texture, without complicating your recipes. A handful of prunes, raisins, or apricots can bring just enough something special to elevate the classics and create new favorites along the way.
From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!
