Wondering what to do for Thanksgiving this year? Here’s what you can do: prepare an unforgettable meal for the family to enjoy together. Whether you’d prefer a traditional Thanksgiving dinner or are looking for something alternative, join us as we explore a world of simple yet satisfying options.
We’ll begin by looking at some starters and appetizers before diving into main courses that are both comforting and traditional. What’s more, we’ll uncover the best seasonal ingredients, Canadian fusion dishes, and simple but effective hacks to make it an occasion to remember.
Thanksgiving Starters and Appetizers
Whether you’re preparing a traditional Thanksgiving meal with turkey and gravy or a modern alternative, appetizers are always worth considering. Serving them keeps everyone around the table happy as they await their main meal. They’re also quick and easy to prepare.
Such starters don’t come much easier to prepare than these Skillet Gnocchi Antipasto Bites. Simply slide the much-loved ingredients onto the skewers or cocktail sticks and serve. Not only are these bites delicious, but they’re also easy to customize for those with different dietary preferences.
For a touch of elegance and old Italian charm, these Fresh Mozzarella & Tomato Crostini never fail. Simply add the cheese and tomato on top of pieces of sliced garlic bread that’s been coated in pesto sauce. What you get is a highly satisfying starter that’s beautiful in appearance.
Main Courses for Comfort and Tradition
If you’re looking for a traditional Thanksgiving meal, no doubt you’ll be opting for some turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, carrots, and pumpkin pie. But if you fancy something alternative, these Italian-inspired delights are bound to please the crowd.
For a hearty Italian classic, Old Fashioned Lasagna is a warm, cheese-filled, comforting dish that everyone loves. While it may not be a typical Thanksgiving dish, it’s a sure way to bring everyone together and satisfy their taste buds with timeless, familiar flavours. This recipe is fit for any occasion.
If there are vegetarians around the table, that’s no problem at all. They can enjoy a similar dish that’s just as tasty in this Roasted Zucchini Lasagna. Given that zucchini adds such a sweet, rich, and distinct flavour, don’t be surprised if even the meat-eaters prefer this vegetarian version.
Seasonal Sensations
As Thanksgiving comes about in the fall, it’s also an opportunity to cook something special with seasonal ingredients. These are typically the vegetables that are at their brightest and freshest at the given time of year. So how do you begin?
You can make the most of asparagus by preparing this Cheese Filled Skillet Gnocchi with Lemon, Ricotta, and Asparagus recipe. This combo of textures and flavours is incredibly simple to make and is a tasty way to bring more greens into mealtime.
For a dish that’s warm, hearty, and creamy, Butternut Squash Ravioli with Brown Butter and Sage will remind you why filled pasta meals are much-loved around the world. Add some pine nuts and sage leaves for a cozy and herbaceous effect, and enjoy how they meld with the mouthwatering blend of sauce and sprinkles of Parmesan cheese.
Canadian Fusion
We know how much Americans love to celebrate their own Thanksgiving, but here in Canada, we have a different way of doing things. Our Thanksgiving is on the calmer side, but it’s still a day for us to be proud of who we are. What better way to do that than by using some of our nation’s finest ingredients in our Thanksgiving meal?
Let’s begin with this Braised Beef au jus Ravioli, Mushrooms, Maple Syrup and Québec Cheese Curds. Pasta recipes are usually simple, but this one is relatively elaborate while remaining easy to make. It allows everyone at the table to enjoy Italian cuisine with Canadian flavours.
What’s more, Canadian food just wouldn’t be Canadian without our much-loved poutine, but what happens when you make it with an Italian-inspired twist? Find out for yourself in this Skillet Gnocchi Poutine. This revamped version of the Canadian classic replaces fries with gnocchi, and the result is dazzling.
Quick Tips for a Perfect Thanksgiving Family Dinner
Plan ahead – Think about how many people will be there and if they have any dietary preferences. Making small adjustments for individuals will make those around the table feel cared for.
Set the table – Doing this neatly helps to set the occasion. You can use a special tablecloth and place folded napkins beside the cutlery. Those around the table will get a sense of the special occasion.
Use seasonal ingredients – Think about what fresh vegetables or fruits are currently in season and incorporate them into your recipes.
Make it cozy – You can do this by dimming the lights a little and playing some music in the background. It will make everyone feel more comfortable and relaxed.
Delegate tasks – You don’t have to do it all alone. Get family members to help out with tasks, whether that means helping to set the table or stirring a pot or two. Cooking is a great way to spend time together.
For more tips and tricks that will bring joy to your mealtime, feel free to swing by our kitchen.