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We might as well be honest with each other and admit that one of the best things about holiday festivities is the food. I had drinks with friends last week and as we discussed the upcoming holidays, the topic turned to that of favorite side dishes. I was surprised by how many different foods are considered standard with various families. I always thought that holiday fare was pretty cut and dried, but I learned the other day that nothing could be further from the truth Here are some “must-have” side dishes from various friends:

Potatoes

Mashed, cheesy, scalloped, with gravy, without gravy….it doesn’t matter; potatoes in one form or another are pretty much a staple for very family.

Cranberry Sauce

From the can or freshly made, on the tart side or on the sweet side, with oranges, with nuts, with oranges and nuts.

Pumpkin Pie

Almost universal, and always with whipped cream or ice cream.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

My own mother makes these and we stage a revolt if they aren’t at EVERY holiday meal. A little olive oil, garlic, and balsamic vinegar, and they are gone before the turkey is even touched.

Green Bean Casserole

An American classic. Must have the fried onions on top to be considered authentic.

Scalloped Corn

This is my step-father’s favorite. His German mother made it every Christmas and when he and my mom married decades ago, it became a staple at our holiday dinner as well.

Wild Cranberry Rice

Not every one likes cranberry sauce or relish but this a popular alternative.

Roasted Chestnuts

Another friend tells me roasted chestnuts signify the day is coming to a close, and ensures that everyone make the snowy drive home warm, with full tummies.

Latkes and Dough Balls

Perennial Hanukah favorites in one household.

Stuffing

Talk about variations! Cornbread, sausage, mushroom, oyster, sage, vegetarian–you name it, there’s a stuffing type for it.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Complete with browned marshmallows on top.

Sweet Potato Pie

Most southern families never have pumpkin pie; it’s always been and always will be sweet potato pie. I tried it myself for the first time this past Thanksgiving and have to admit it was darn good.

Lima Bean Pie

Another Southern dish that I’d never heard of before, but a family favorite for many friends.

Creamed Peas

With or without pearl onions.

Mac and Cheese

Apparently one family’s patriarch makes home made macaroni and cheese that can’t be beat, and no holiday dinner can be enjoyed without it.

Clearly there are as many side dish choices and expectations as there are families. The spirit of the holidays should remain the focal point of the upcoming weeks, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a good side dish or five along with it. Dig in!

What are your favorite holiday side dishes?

Photo by: Laura Cardamom