choosing sides

Well, the holidays are almost here. If the idea of putting together an elaborate meal for a tableful of perhaps differing minds seems daunting… have no fear!

Here are some of my tried-and-true side dishes that are sure to please both sides of the table. The best part many can be made or prepped way in advance. Giving you ample to time to take a deep breath, go for a walk, have a glass of wine, hide in your closet and eat that leftover Halloween candy, whatever you need to do to find your happy place before the doorbell rings.

My grandmother’s sausage stuffing is to die for. I double the sausage because let’s be honest who doesn’t love more sausage. And don’t get jazzy trying to upgrade, you are going to want to use Jimmy Dean. Make this recipe weeks ahead of time, divide into two large Ziploc bags and pop in the freezer The night serving before defrost the stuffing in the refrigerator, place in a buttered casserole, drizzle with chicken broth, toss and bake for an hour in a 350 degree oven.

My mom’s best friend Carol’s cranberry sauce is out of this world. And it must be made at least a day ahead of time. At first this sauce looks more like a cranberry soup but overnight in the refrigerator it gels perfectly. It also freezes beautifully, so go ahead and make this one now.

What holiday spread is complete without Brussels sprouts with bacon? This incredible combination can be prepped and partially cooked earlier in the day. All it needs is about a ten-minute flash in a pan and it is table ready.

My sister’s recipe for mashed potatoes is amazing. Added bonus you can make this a day (or two) in advance.

My mom’s whipped sweet potatoes are beyond simple to prepare. Do it the day before then top with mini marshmallows before baking for a toasty retro touch.

So rest easy, your stressless holiday awaits. And if things get heated just remember that cardinal rule of table manners… no talking when mouths are full.