If you’re looking to branch out beyond the usual sides, turnips and rutabagas are worth a spot on your plate. These recipes show just how versatile and easy they can be—roasted, mashed, glazed, or even used as a crust.
Some dishes lean more savory with herbs and cheese, while others bring out their natural sweetness with honey or glazes. Whether you’re planning a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner, these root veggies can add something fresh without a lot of fuss.
Ready to give these underused ingredients a second look? Click through and find a new go-to side dish—or maybe even your next brunch favorite.
Roasted Turnips with Chive Gremolata
Turnips are roasted until golden and tender, then topped with a fresh chive gremolata for a bright finish. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, making this a surprising and satisfying side dish.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turnips with Chive Gremolata
Rutabaga Fries
Cut into sticks and roasted until crisp, these rutabaga fries are a simple and flavorful twist on classic fries. They’re easy to make and work well alongside burgers or as a stand-alone snack.
Get the Recipe: Rutabaga Fries
Roasted Rutabaga
Just rutabaga, oil, salt, and pepper—that’s all you need for this no-fuss side. Roasting mellows the flavor and gives this humble veggie a slightly sweet, caramelized edge.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Rutabaga
Glazed Turnips
These turnips are simmered until tender and finished with a light glaze, creating a subtly sweet side that goes well with roasted meats or holiday spreads.
Get the Recipe: Glazed Turnips
Mashed Rutabaga with Parmesan
This mash is creamy, cheesy, and a little unexpected. Cooked like mashed potatoes, rutabaga gets a savory boost from grated Parmesan, making it a tasty change for your next dinner side.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Rutabaga with Parmesan
Roasted Turnips with Honey
Sliced turnips are tossed with olive oil, honey, thyme, salt, and pepper, then roasted until tender and caramelized. A flavorful, slightly sweet side that’s ready in about 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turnips with Honey
Bacon Cheddar Quiche with Rutabaga Crust
A creative brunch option, this quiche features a savory rutabaga crust filled with crispy bacon, cheddar, and eggs. It’s a flavorful twist on the usual and holds up well for slicing and serving.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheddar Quiche with Rutabaga Crust
Mashed Rutabaga with Garlic Herb Butter
This creamy mash is made with rutabaga and topped with a simple garlic herb butter. It’s a satisfying side that works well as a lighter option next to hearty mains.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Rutabaga with Garlic Herb Butter
Roasted Turnips with Chive Butter Sauce
Roasted until crisp on the outside and soft inside, these turnips are topped with a warm butter and chive sauce. A simple swap for roasted potatoes with just a bit more edge.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turnips with Chive Butter Sauce