This is better than I thought it would be. Truly, when I went to put together suggestions for this year’s festivities I thought it would be slim pickings. That there wouldn’t be much to choose from because I hadn’t gotten up nearly as many posts as planned. I’d been behind, slacking, negligent about my duties and responsibilities. Turns out, that wasn’t (entirely) the case. It’s rewarding to look back on the year and see what’s been accomplished. I got more up than I planned! And a lot of it would fit nicely on the Thanksgiving table, if there’s still room.
Let’s start the day with a cheeseboard. Just to get things going. There’s nothing worse than being hungry until 3pm when the food is finally ready. I’m not about that. I do breakfast, lunch, Thanksgiving dinner, and then actual dinner on the big day.
What’re you drinking? We always have apple cider (mulled, of course) but maybe this year we’ll have to pour a little bubbly overtop too. Also, the sangria I made and shared last year with my menu was to die for.
Before yesterday, I’d never made homemade stuffing/dressing but it turned out ab fab, sweetie darling. Find the recipe over at Ernessi's site! I think the next time I try making it with cornbread! Or just serve it in a warm skillet with butter and honey.
For sides, we’ll need a ton of roasted garlic. To put in mashed potatoes. Or orzo! (Carbs are carbs are carbs, right?) A heavy dose of garlic is delicious in green beans too – if you want to forgo the cream of mushroom soup situation (I do).
Starting with a salad is a bit non-traditional, but I like it that way. And want to squeeze in extra veggies at every opportunity on Turkey Day. A classic wedge salad still feels decadent with all its bacon and blue cheese. And a shaved beet salad incorporates a classic fall root veggie in a new way! Instead of making my usual Brussels sprouts side dish I may have to shave them for this salad.
I’m going cake heavy for desserts this year. I’ll attempt (for the fourth time) to recreate my perfect pumpkin roll from last year. And we’re celebrating my mom’s birthday on Saturday (when we also celebrate Thanksgiving) and she has requested mayonnaise cake. Bars and cookies are an easy, almost effortless, option to get a good dose of pumpkin in (especially since I do NOT do pumpkin pie). If you absolutely need pie, though, – there’s bourbon pecan, classic apple (both in my perfect pie crust), and a sweet potato cream pie. I’m thinking of making a pumpkin variation this year? Because that's not the same as pumpkin pie, ok?
If you need any more inspiration or instruction - check out my recipe page for tons of great ideas. Not just for Thursday, but all year round. <3
No matter what, I know the day will be spectacular. It’ll be full of family and friends and food and I couldn’t be more thankful. Do tell – what are you making this year?
Leave a Reply