Sidekicks — Deseret Morning News readers offer their favorite holiday side dishes

The main stars of the Thanksgiving menu are usually a done deal. We already know there will be turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy and lots of pies.

But the side dishes are where the cooks can leave a creative imprint on the traditional meal. Many become a family trademark, getting passed down from generation to generation.

"This is one of our family's favorite side dishes on Thanksgiving and Christmas," wrote Monica Jergensen of Kaysville about her Grandmother Nielsen's Corn Pudding. "She passed away in 1996, but we still cook it every year in memory of her, and it brings back memories of Thanksgiving at Grandma's house. Oooh, those smells!!!"

A couple of other great things about side dishes:

• Vibrant fruits and veggies, such as cranberries, broccoli, carrots or sweet potatoes give color to that beige-and-brown plate of turkey, potatoes and gravy and dressing.

• Fruits and vegetables also add more vitamins, minerals and fiber.

• With so many people going vegetarian, it's likely that someone at your gathering will appreciate a few more non-meat choices.

• Adding more side dishes can help stretch a meal if more guests show up than expected.

• Side dishes are a budget boon because most fruits and vegetables cost less than meats or desserts.

Carrot Ring with Swiss Peas is something Kathy Trulson of Salt Lake City has been making for the past 10-12 Thanksgivings. "It just wouldn't be Thanksgiving without it," she says.

"It certainly is unusual and different, but every time I have new guests over, they ask for the recipe. All of my children are grown and have families of their own, but they always include this in their Thanksgiving menu as well. It makes a nice presentation and is certainly delicious."

Jeanene Robinson's Celery Special came from a Mountain Fuel cook booklet in the days when utility companies had home economists who gave cooking demonstrations. "It's become a special side dish and a favorite for Thanksgiving," she writes.

Every year, Tina Hofmann's family insists on Sweet Potato Balls, which are so decadently rich they could double as a dessert. "Some family members that don't usually like sweet potatoes enjoy these."