Akofa Deh (284)

As the holiday season approaches, the great debate over holiday side dishes begins too. I took the time to gather Central’s opinion on the subject. What side dishes do people love the most? And, equally as important, what items should be banned from the dinner table for all eternity? 

By a rightful landslide, mac and cheese has claimed its place as the supreme side, snagging 17.4% of the popular vote. Who could resist its golden layers of cheesy goodness, perfectly toasted top, and gooey center? It’s the dish that says, “I’m here for the party, and I brought extra cheese.” Thanksgiving wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without this powerhouse side, and let’s face it, if you’re not making it, just don’t invite anyone over.

Trailing behind mac and cheese, however, are a few questionable choices. Mashed potatoes came in second place with a respectable 16%. Yes, they’re classic, but let’s be honest—they’re a mushy gravy vessel. Stuffing, at 13%, is bread masquerading as a vegetable. Stuffing shows up uninvited and tries to pretend it belongs, while everyone at the table side-eyes it and reaches for another scoop of mac and cheese. And sweet potatoes with marshmallows, let’s face it: this “dish” is only acceptable if you’re under twelve. Past that age, it’s a dessert with delusions of side-dish grandeur.

Not to even mention the “cranberry sauce (homemade)” or the raw potatoes, which also earned 4.3% each. Cranberry sauce is that side that only gets taken because of its pretty color. As for raw potatoes…well, maybe someone was just confused.

In conclusion, it’s time to crown mac and cheese the rightful queen of Thanksgiving. For all those clinging to collard greens and mashed potatoes, there’s still time to convert. After all, on a day dedicated to indulgence, let’s leave the healthy food behind and embrace the cheese.