Thanksgiving Countdown: Memorable Veggie Sides

Question- is the turkey the hero or are the side dishes? I say- it depends on the what the sides are. First, I promise not to serve up grey string beans and soggy canned corn then expect you to ask for seconds.

There's the trick to my veggie side dish mix that makes them stand out on their own. And, I have taken the stress away. Stop trying to get everything to the table hot. Opt out! That’s right! Don’t serve a complete menu of all hot sides. It can be a little stressful, even for the most experienced chef especially when having your mother-in-law looking over your shoulder thinking out loud- that's not how I do it.

Also, don’t feel compelled to make too many items. Do a few well is better than too many average. Prepare some traditional favorite family sides, then try out a new dish to start your own tradition. 

Grilled Vegetable Salad with Bacon

Garlic Artichokes

Roasted Root Vegetables

Grilled Asparagus

Fennel & Green Bean Salad

Brussels Sprouts and Pancetta

© Hdconnelly | Dreamstime.com

What's Coming Up Monday: Thanksgiving Turkey Countdown Continues with More Sides: Potatoes, Stuffings & Dressings

Thanksgiving Countdown: Turkey Prep and Tips

What better time than the holidays to celebrate all the wonderful things we've been blessed with throughout the year. Traditionally, food has always been a natural way to celebrate life and friendship. Take time this holiday season to spread joy using a taste of your own food traditions with family and friends. 

Today I'll get you started with some information on how to choose + prep your holiday turkey.

Let's Talk Turkey—A Guide to Turkey

TIP: use a good quality roasting pan for even heat convection

Thanksgiving Countdown: Cakes and Cookies

OK, I won’t be lining up today for seconds. I am more of a savory than a sweet kind-a-guy. But, these are memorable reliable tried-n-true recipes I created for you. All are pretty easy, and can be made in advance to lighten the last minute cooking load. I’ll be making the Lemon Ricotta Cake a few days before serving, because it actually tastes better a day or two old. 

Note to Self:  those bearing sweets always get invited back.

New York Style Cheese Cake

Carrot Cupcakes

Lemon Ricotta Cake

Lemon Bars

Honey Orange Cake

Thanksgiving Countdown: Brined or Grilled

Let's take time today to remember those who have served and observe 11.11.11 with appreciation & gratitude.

 

 

 

Hi Friends. Let's talk turkey! Hands down, my Apple Brined Roasted Turkey Recipe is an all time winner for a moist and flavorful turkey. I've prepared this recipe on my TV show, on Live! with Regis & Kelly, and for my toughest audience, my family. Sure, emails for requests and success stories pour in, but my toughest test was still before me with my family; a group with more food issues and conditions than should ever be under one roof. Somehow, I don't remember my Nana having such a tough group. She cooked. We ate and were happy. 

Need more kitchen? If your oven is all jammed up - take it outdoors and grill-it. Or, make a Thanksgiving turkey challenge. Cook 1 turkey in the oven and 1 on the grill. Yep. Been there, done that. 

Apple Brined Roasted Turkey Recipe

Turkey on The Grill

Knipschildt

The Maitre Chocolatier.

Easter is meant to be enjoyed for grownups too, especially when it comes to sharing good chocolate. Knipschildt chocolate quail eggs are made with more than cleaver packaging, containing exceptional chocolate. Ritz Knipschildt, award winning Maitre Chocolatier was born and raised in Odense, Denmark and his roots run strong in his traditional craft. Fritz creates top quality artisan chocolates and confections using classic recipes delivered with a modern twist. Fritz worked as a chef in Denmark, Spain, France + New York before opening Knipschildt Chocolatier in 1999, creating somewhat of a chocolate cult following.

Fritz tips: do not refrigerate chocolate + chocolate are best eaten at room temperature.