As Thanksgiving approaches, we find ourselves still navigating through the challenges of a pandemic. It’s evident that gathering for a large family dinner may not be the best idea this year. As someone who celebrates a birthday on Thanksgiving, I understand the desire to bring everyone together, but this year calls for a different approach.
For those of us adhering to COVID safety guidelines, Thanksgiving will likely be a more intimate affair. This means we won’t need a massive turkey or endless sides. If you’re planning a smaller celebration with your immediate family, I’ve gathered some inventive and delicious ideas to help make your meal enjoyable without the usual extensive prep work.
1. Keep the Tradition, Just Downsize the Feast
You don’t have to compromise on the festive feel! If a traditional dinner is what you crave, opt for a smaller roasted bird like a turkey breast or Cornish hens. As a culinary expert, I find joy in cooking Thanksgiving meals and repurposing leftovers into creative dishes like soups and sandwiches.
2. Grill Up Some Turkey Burgers
If the weather permits, consider grilling turkey burgers. Top them with gravy and serve on fluffy buns alongside crispy sweet potato fries and a refreshing cranberry coleslaw—a casual meal with easy cleanup!
Cranberry Coleslaw Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 1 head green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 green apple, diced
- ¾ cup dried cranberries
- Optional: ½ cup pecans
- Dressing:
- ½ cup mayo
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp + 1 tsp honey
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
Mix the dressing ingredients, combine with slaw ingredients, and garnish with nuts if desired.
3. Try Thanksgiving-Inspired Meatloaf
This recipe captures the essence of the holiday without the fuss. Pair it with mashed potatoes and green bean casserole for a comforting meal.
Thanksgiving Meatloaf Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground turkey
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 ½ cups pre-seasoned stuffing mix
- 1 small onion, grated
- ¾ cup dried cranberries
- 2 packets dry poultry gravy mix
- 2-3 tbsp poultry seasoning
- Salt and Pepper
Mix all ingredients, shape into a loaf, and bake until cooked through. Serve with gravy!
4. Support Local BBQ
If cooking feels overwhelming, consider picking up a family-sized order of pulled turkey from a local BBQ joint. Heat some baked potatoes and load them with your favorite toppings for an easy meal.
5. Sandwiches Over a Full Spread
Why not skip the elaborate cooking altogether? Visit a deli, choose your favorite turkey and cheese, grab some freshly baked bread, and assemble delicious sandwiches with all the fixings. Pair with kettle chips and settle in for a cozy movie night.
6. Go Fancy Without the Turkey
Feel free to break from tradition! With a smaller crowd, experiment with high-quality ingredients or try that fancy recipe you’ve always wanted to tackle. Why not go for a decadent Beef Wellington this year?
7. Support Small Businesses
If local restaurants are offering holiday meals for takeout, consider ordering from them. Supporting local businesses during these tough times is vital, and you’ll get to enjoy a delicious meal without the stress of cooking.
Thanksgiving this year may not resemble what we’re accustomed to, but it offers a chance to try something different and find joy in simplicity. For more insights on home insemination and pregnancy, check out this excellent resource from the CDC. You can also explore additional tips on boosting fertility from reputable sources like Make A Mom.
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In summary, while this year may feel different, it can still be filled with gratitude and delicious food. Embrace the smaller gathering as an opportunity to try new things and enjoy a memorable Thanksgiving experience.