Thanksgiving is the time to gather with friends and family. It is a time to reflect on what we have been given and give thanks for everything we have in our lives.

It is also a time to eat!

When you are planning your Thanksgiving meal, it can be overwhelming to think about all of the different dishes you will need to prepare. We’re here to help with some ideas for your menu.

Turkey First

Turkey: Turkey is an essential part of any Thanksgiving meal. Buy the turkey according to how many people will be dining with you and then add 5 just in case. It never hurts to plan for leftovers or unexpected house guests. Poke holes in the turkey with a knife or with a fork depending on size. 

First rinse the turkey with apple cider vinegar to make sure it’s clean and ready to prep.

Mix seasoning together in a bowl, add lime. Make sure you have enough seasoning to cover the turkey. Pour it leisurely over the turkey

Get some apple juice and pour it on the bottom of the turkey tray, lay the turkey over it and then heat the oven to start the 4 hour turkey fest.

Stuffing Next

Stuffing: A classic side dish that goes great with any kind of turkey dish. Try out this recipe;

INGREDIENTS

  • 18 to 24 ounces bread cubes which is about 1.5 loaves of bread, or about 12 to 14 cups 
  • 1 cup unsalted butter or try cashew butter as a healthy alternative
  • 3 cups diced sweet onion, roughly 2 large onions
  • 2 cups diced celery
  • 6 minced garlic cloves
  • kosher salt and pepper
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock

Potatoes Last

Potatoes: Taters are always a crowd pleaser during Thanksgiving! But mashed potatoes are certainly a must. Remember to boil with patience and mash with love. It really is a labor of love and can be a special time for everyone. Making mashed potatoes can become a special tradition you want to keep.

Sometimes when we’re younger, we fail to realize how meaningful it is to start traditions and to maintain them. We fail to remember what it’s like to have a meal and share it with those we love. Keep in mind that holding hands around the table and simply speaking gratitude is powerful and meaningful to everyone who is there to share that moment with you. Happy Thanksgiving.