Let's Do This: The T-Day Spread

Countdown. Days, hours and minutes are fleeting. T-minus 2 days to Thanksgiving...so, what's going to be on your table?

Your friends and family may already have time-honored food traditions that show up every year. Like the magical green bean casserole.

Ah, yes - green bean casserole.
...
Really? Dumping congealed soup on mushy beans?
Stop it. Stop it right now.

Image courtesy of girltomom.com

If you want to brighten up your Thanksgiving spread without buying a potato ricer, a gravy separator or other crazy kitchen gadgets, try these 3 new dishes I'm adding to my Thanksgiving menu this year. No fuss and super tasty, these will shake up your sides without taking your guests into unexplored, unknown territory because, face it - we're not all Pilgrims.

Sausage-Stuffed Zucchini
This is an easy-to-make yet impressive flavor combination of veggies + protein. Always gets rave reviews at my table. And, you can make these a day ahead and pop in the oven.

Recipe and photo courtesy of MarthaStewart.com

Roasted Sweet Potato Fries
If you can't pass on making the mashed potatoes, serve these along side as a unique option - and, they're very kid friendly. Toss in some chopped fresh thyme or rosemary before roasting, if desired.

Recipe and photo courtesy of gimmesomeoven.com

Autumn Farmers' Market Salad
Save yourself some work and assemble a gorgeous bowl of fresh greens with seasonal splashes of color. Save even more time and sub in a store-bought vinaigrette. 

Recipe and photo courtesy of bonappetit.com


Here's hoping your Thanksgiving table shines...and if it doesn't, well, just have more wine. You'll start seeing stars soon enough.

Cheers and blessings to you and yours this holiday!