November 17, 2011

Thanksgiving Prep

This is for all you slackers out there (myself included). If you are like me and almost forgot it was November, let alone thanksgiving in a week, you probably haven't done any turkey day planning.


So I present you with this fool-proof guide to a happy thanksgiving.


1. Make a plan
   -Plan out your menu: turkey (duh!) or use a chicken for a thanksgiving for two; my rule of thumb is to
     always have an app or salad, potato, a veggie, a dessert and bread/rolls. For every four people, add
     another side, veggie, app and dessert.
   -Once you figure out the basics, you can then decided which recipes you want to make with your
    ingredients and if you want to be traditional, simple,fancy,etc
   -Make your grocery list........and if at all possible avoid going to the store the weekend or day before.  
 
2. Prep work
   -Gathering all necessary pans,utensils,dishes etc. (For my turkey I like to use a throw away aluminum
    pan for easy clean up).

   -Prepare your table settings-table cloth, napkins,napkin rings,place settings, centerpieces,etc.
    These are some great ideas!
  -The day before, prep whatever foods you can, i.e. pre-cut veggies,prepare your stuffing,etc

3. Turkey Day


    
    
   
    -Put your turkey in the oven early.
    -If people offer, accept their help.
    -Be creative, enjoy your day and maybe have a 
     few of these while you're at it.

















Menu Ideas


Appetizers
Sides/Veggies

  • Maple glazed Brussels sprouts
  • Creamed onions
  • Cheesy corn bake
  • Brown sugared bacon green beans
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Sweet potatoes (baked, mashed,casserole)
  • Tossed salad-goat cheese,pear,cranberries and walnuts is a good one
  • Cranberry orange relish
  • Gravy
  • Stuffing (sausage,sage and apple cornbread is a personal favorite)
Dessert

  • Cranberry pear crisp
  • Pumpkin pecan pie
  • Pumpkin bread pudding
  • Rustic apple tart
  • Pumpkin trifle
  • Molasses pumpkin spice cookies
  • Pumpkin pie martinis
  • Apple pie martinis
Stay tuned for recipes and more ideas!

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