Favorite Holiday Foods

*By: Megan Deppen*

The holidays may look different this year, but that doesn’t mean you still can’t celebrate with some of your favorite foods. I know I always look forward to this time when I can indulge a little more than usual and not feel guilty about it. 
Besides the ham and the turkey being the star of the show, here are a few of my favorite foods that I look forward to on the holidays.

Classic Stuffing – This recipe is from the Food Network and I make it every year. It’s pretty simple and tastes delicious. It’s even better for leftovers the next day.

Roasted Carrots– Carrots are an easy side dish to make. Simply cut the carrots into smaller pieces and scatter them on a sheet pan and season with olive oil, salt, pepper and roast them for 350-400 degrees for 20 minutes in the oven. If you want to amp up the flavor, add some honey for a touch of sweetness.

Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Bacon – I never thought I liked brussel sprouts until I tried them roasted. This is another easy side dish that you can throw on a sheet pan and bake in the oven. You will want to cut the brussel sprouts into halves or quarters, depending on how big they are and then put them on a sheet pan with some olive oil, salt, pepper and roast them for 400 degrees for 25 minutes. In the meantime, you can cook your bacon according to the package directions and then cut it up and mix it with the brussel sprouts after they are cooked. Because everything is better with bacon!

Sweet Potato Souffle – This dish from Trisha Yearwood is so delicious and definitely an indulgence! But, I promise you it’s so worth the extra calories. 

Mashed Potatoes – Always a favorite for the holidays. Treat yourself to these yummy sour cream and chive mashed potatoes. 

Watergate Salad – I know there are a ton of different names out there for this salad, but this has always been one of my favorites since childhood and continues to be every holiday. The good news is it’s very simple to make. You can add pineapple chunks and nuts to this recipe, but my mom just makes it with pistachio pudding, marshmallows and cool whip. You can check out the recipe here and just a warning, it’s addicting! 

Pumpkin Gingersnap Cheesecake – You will want to save this recipe, trust me.

Apple Pie – Check out this recipe from Lauren Conrad.

What are your favorite holiday foods? Let us know in your comments below.