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How do you decide your favorite Thanksgiving recipes? Are you a strict traditionalist? Give me mashed potatoes, or give me death? Or are you adventurous, always looking for some new, fun, delicious dish to bring to a family Thanksgiving or your besties’ Friendsgiving? I got you!
I have some pretty traditional line-ups from years past. You can find a lot of them here: My Favorite Thanksgiving Recipes. But, this year, maybe you want to think about something unexpected.
Of course, not everything is unexpected. Most of the produce is pretty seasonal, because for the most part I do cook seasonal food.Fall flavors are big for Thanksgiving, and that’s not much different here. But, if you’re used to the usual big turkey, dressing, gravy, mashed potatoes etc, some of these ideas could spark some creativity this year.
Let’s begin with a couple starters. Both of these tasty appetizers would be at home on any charcuterie tray, and you can easily make them ahead. Just keep them sealed up, so that they stay crisp until you want to serve them.
If you like to start your meal with soup, this is a great choice! Creamy Tomato Bacon Soup
This salad will be great with either traditional Thanksgiving dishes or with updated ideas! Rainbow Veggie Slaw
One of my all-time most clicked on recipes. There’s a reason for that – it’s amazing! You can make this ahead too. Just leave some time for reheating on a lightly oiled baking sheet, so that the potatoes have time to crisp back up. Crash Hot Sweet Potatoes
This one of our favorite sides for any meal – rich and deeply delicious. You can sub in turnips too, but if you’ve never had rutabega, consider this your invitation!
Brussells sprouts are iconic for Thanksgiving dinner and this roasty blend of flavors is sublime. Brussels Sprouts with Shallots and Brown Butter
If you’re finding this list even just a couple days before your get-together, you still have time to make these! Refrigerator Bread & Butter Pickles
If you want a breakfast treat, or something other than yeast rolls with dinner, this can be made ahead and warmed up. Butternut Squash Quick Bread
Maybe you’re only cooking for a few people, or the meal is going to be a buffet when anything goes – this is a great choice for either scenario. You can make it ahead and reheat [it’s actually tastier!] right before serving. Save the bread crumbs for right before you’re serving. Turkey Stuffed Delicata Squash
Finally, we have dessert. I debated about this, because I do have a lot of desserts here on the blog. I decided to go with one of my personal favorites. It’s not tough to make and tastes even better the next day. I love the caramelly notes the pears have, and the cake is perfect. Upside Down Ginger Pear Cake
Here are a few kitchen items that might make cooking Thanksgiving dinner easier. Or it could be your Christmas List?
Sheet Pan ~ Potato Masher ~ Chef’s Knife ~ Parchment Paper ~ Mini Bread Pans ~ Iron Skillet ~ Maple Rolling Pin
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Bonus recipe from this week: Herbed Cheese Gougeres
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