Hey there, festive planners and Thanksgiving enthusiasts!
As we embark on our 3-Week Countdown to Turkey Day, let’s turn the tables on stress and cook up a storm of calm efficiency. With a sprinkle of planning and a dash of creativity, we’ll ensure your holiday table is a feast for the eyes and the palate—no guest left behind! So, tie on your apron, it’s time to get cooking with gusto and GLO!
Week 3: Menu Magic Let’s start our culinary journey with the star of the show: the menu. A thoughtfully crafted menu can be the difference between a good meal and an unforgettable one. Every year I plan my menu off of Pinterest. I prefer to mix up the menu, rather than sticking with the grandma’s menu. One year I did a Cranberry theme. It was a Martha Stewart Thanksgiving menu. I loved every bite. The traditionalists at the table didn’t, but it was then that I decided since I was the cook, I was going to cook things that I liked. No offense grandma, but your stuffing is too mushy and salty. I find an eclectic blend of old and new recipes keeps the menu fresh year to year and makes me happy.
- Cater to the Crowd: Gather intel on dietary restrictions and favorite dishes. Aunt Sally loves sweet potato casserole? Check. Cousin Joe’s vegan? Got it!
- Sample Menu:
- Starters: A vibrant platter of roasted vegetable antipasto welcomes all.
- Mains: A classic herb-basted turkey, alongside a hearty wild rice stuffed acorn squash for the plant-lovers.
- Sides: Fluffy garlic mashed potatoes and a zesty green bean almondine—because who doesn’t love a little crunch with their green?
- Desserts: Traditional pumpkin pie sits next to a dairy-free chocolate silk pie.
Week 2: Trial & Preparation With our menu set, it’s time to test and prepare. A smooth execution on the big day starts with a little legwork now.
- Test Runs: Whip up a batch of that gluten-free stuffing. Adjust as needed so it’s just right.
- Prep Work: Chop, portion, and freeze what you can. Those onions for the stuffing? Dice and bag them now.
Week 1: Finishing Touches This week is all about the details that make your Thanksgiving uniquely heartwarming.
- Table Decorations: Forage for pinecones and acorns for a rustic centerpiece. Scatter some fall leaves among candle votives for an added autumnal touch.
- Place Settings: Personalize each spot with a simple craft paper tag, perhaps with a handwritten note of gratitude for the person sitting there.
- Make Pies and Relish: A day or two before, make your cranberry relish and pies. It takes so much stress off the day to only have to focus on the meal.
- Gather All Pots, Pans, and Dishes: Have a fancy holiday platter you use every year? Now is the time to make sure it is washed, dried, and ready to go. I like to get out my army of crockpots assembled on the counter. By thoughtfully preparing your kitchen before the day, you won’t be scrambling for anything on T-Day.
Turkey Day: It’s showtime! With the prep out of the way, you’re free to enjoy the company and the food.
As our Fix It Friday comes to a close and Thanksgiving Day awaits, remember to steal a quiet moment for yourself amid the bustle. A cup of spiced tea or a brief walk in the crisp air can work wonders.
And as always, my friends, enjoy the GLO that comes from a home filled with love, laughter, and the savory scent of a holiday meal lovingly prepared.
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