14 Thanksgiving Sides to Remind You Why You Love This Holiday Meal

Though your guest list might be smaller this year, it’s no reason to skimp on the spread

Photo: Michael Maes/Photodisc/Getty Images

When it comes to the Thanksgiving feast, the sides make the meal. Yes, that grilled turkey or deep-fried version can defy expectations. But for a lot of us, Thanksgiving is a time to trot out favorite family recipes for gratins, breads, greens, squash, and even baked ziti. (I really think the Italian American tradition of starting with baked ziti or lasagne is kind of awesome, though who needs turkey after that?)

This shortlist comprises a handful of favorites, like a stuffing based on a James Beard recipe that’s been a Thanksgiving staple for decades, a gratin I learned from Jean-Georges Vongerichten, an easy and delicious raw beet salad, and more.

1. Stuffed Butternut Squash

Makes: 4 servings
Time: 2 hours

Photo: Sam Kaplan for The New York Times

Ingredients

• 2 medium butternut squash
• ¼ cup olive oil, plus more for rubbing squash