Thanksgiving is quite possibly the best meal we eat every year. Which is why we obsess so much over what we put on the table. Families spend all day in the kitchen, putting together different appetizers, main dishes and desserts. In many families, these recipes are passed down from generation to generation. We've all heard, "it's my great-grandma's recipe." However, if you are not one of those families with an entire cupboard in your kitchen full of family recipes, then here are some ideas for you to try this year.
1. Baked Macaroni & Cheese
This Thanksgiving side is a great alternative to stuffing for those, like me, who don't like to eat soggy bread crumbs.
2. Cranberry Salad
Canned cranberries are always a big hit, but if you are looking for something a little more elaborate, this salad is the way to go.
3. Corn Pudding
Personally, I've never had corn pudding and it doesn't sound all that appetizing; however, it can put an interesting twist on a traditional corn side dish!
4. Mashes Potatoes
Now, if you haven't had mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving, you are doing it wrong. If it's a classic dish at your table, try adding something extra to it this year like bacon, corn or sausage.
5. Caramelized Apples
While this dish is more along the lines of a dessert, caramelized apples can also be a great snacking food throughout the day as you do your best to "fast before the feast."
6. Biscuits
Whether they are homemade, Pillsbury crescent rolls or from the hot food section of a grocery store, biscuits are a must on every Thanksgiving dinner plate.
7. Green Beans
Green beans can be incorporated into many different types of dishes. You can have them plain, make a casserole, salad or put them into a soup.
8. Chocolate Pudding
Pudding can be a great small side dish to have next to your turkey. Small portions of pudding can go a long way. Pudding is also great on top of pie!
9. Roasted Carrots
Roasted carrots with honey is a great way to convince the younger members of your family to eat their vegetables. You can also add carrots to a casserole if you aren't the biggest fan of the orange vegetables alone.
10. Sausage Bites
Sausage bites are a great food to snack on throughout the day. They aren't too filling and are incredibly delicious. These can be served hot or cold and taste great with cheese and crackers.
11. Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potatoes and marshmallows anyone? This combination is one of the most popular for families to enjoy on Thanksgiving. You can never have enough of this tasty side dish.
12. Spinach
You can pretty much put anything on top of a spinach salad. You can add almonds, cranberries, cheese, oranges, carrots and strawberries. With all the possibilities, there's no doubt you'll find a combination you love.
13. Roasted Asparagus
A great snacking food or side dish, roasted asparagus is always a good choice. I don't remember a Thanksgiving where asparagus wasn't a staple.
14. Butternut Squash
Add a a brown sugar glaze and spices of your choice to your butternut squash this year. Glazed, cubed squash pairs great with your turkey.
15. Roasted Pea Pods
Peas are one of my favorite snacks, but can be taken to a whole new level if you add spices and a sweet or savory glaze.
16. Broccoli and Cauliflower
Both of these vegetables taste amazing drenched in melted cheese. You can add them to a salad with other vegetables or eat them on their own.
17. Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are the best little dish to keep out all day for your family and guests to grab whenever they get hungry. You can season them with salt and pepper or sugar and cinnamon based on your personal preference.
18. Pie
Pie, while sometimes not the most exciting dessert, offers immense variety in the flavors you can make. These include pumpkin, pecan, apple and cherry. Mix it up with a blackberry, rhubarb or lemon meringue pie.
19. Pumpkin Cheesecake
Cheesecake is one of my favorite desserts and is a crowd-pleaser. Pumpkin is very popular for Thanksgiving, but if you don't like the taste of it, chocolate and strawberry are good alternative flavors.
20. Spiced Pumpkin Latte
If you prefer a dessert that you can drink, a spiced pumpkin latte is the way to go. Don't forget to embellish your drink with a light dusting of cinnamon and caramel and a whole cinnamon stick sticking out of the top!
Thanksgiving is a perfect time for food experimentation so don't be afraid to try something you don't you know if you like. Each recipe can be made unique to you, so grab the spatula and get to work; have a happy Thanksgiving!
