This is the part of the Thanksgiving menu that does it for me. Steamy whipped mashed potatoes with flecks of caramelized garlic- my absolute favorite, especially with a side of Honey Grilled Acorn Squash. Don't get me wrong, I won't pass up on the sweet potatoes and cranberry dressing. But if my plate is too full, then I might wait on the Wild Rice Stuffing until my next serving, then pair it with some Savory Herb Gravy.
Thanksgiving Countdown: Brined or Grilled & Gravy
Hi Friends. Here's my best of taking the turkey to the grill! 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
What Coming UP Tomorrow: Thanksgiving Turkey Countdown Continue with Sides: Veggies
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
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What's Coming Up Monday: Thanksgiving Turkey Countdown Continues with More Sides: Potatoes, Stuffings & Dressings