If you’re making a traditional dinner for your Christmas or other holiday meal, by which I mean the typical turkey, ham or roast, don’t forget to shine the spotlight on the side dishes. I don’t know about you, but they can be the stars of the plate for me. Here are some essential holiday dinner side dishes that are always welcome at my table.

I’m of Belgian origin, so that means first and foremost there will be potatoes on the table. And as far as The Offspring are concerned, potatoes means mashed potatoes. And for me as the cook, that means Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes. They make everyone happy, and my life easier!

Mashed potatoes don’t always have to be traditional. These Apple Mashed Potatoes are a real showstopper as far as I’m concerned and they would be wonderful with whatever protein you choose for your main.

Once the potatoes are sorted, our thoughts turn next to vegetables. No dish is as iconic for my family as green beans made according to my mother’s recipe. Every time I put them on the table, someone asks: “Are those Metje’s Green Beans“?

Brussels sprouts are often a classic for holiday dinners, but I think most of us have stories to tell about mushy, watery and altogether unappealing sprouts that our mothers used to feed us. Fear not, these Sautéed Brussels Sprouts Leaves will make just about anyone a sprouts fan! They take a little more prep work (which can be done in advance), but they cook up quickly and will have your guests marvelling … not too many people have eaten sprouts like this!

If turkey is on the menu, then you may want stuffing. My traditionalist Offspring want the stuffing simple — bells and whistles need not apply (you sausage and fruit stuffing lovers are out of luck here). This Simple Bread Stuffing is just the ticket for my family.

Does gravy qualify as a side dish? I don’t know about at your house, but it sure does at mine. If I’m making a turkey or a roast, there must be gravy, or my goose will be cooked (not that I’ve ever cooked a goose). My Gravy Primer will guide you through the steps to delicious, reliable gravy every time.

Oh, cranberry sauce. Not the quivering yet stiff pillar that slides slowly out of a can with that strange suction sound, but homemade from actual cranberries with lots of good flavourings thrown in. My kids hate it, but I don’t care. I love having it with my holiday turkey and Mom always took leftovers home with her. Check out this Cranberry Compote and you’ll see why.

And finally, if you like having a salad along with your holiday dinner, here are two that are suitable for winter festivities: Parsley & Kale Salad with Pomegranate and Brussels Sprouts Salad.