So, guess what? I’m hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year! I know, I know—cue the why did I volunteer for this? thoughts. But honestly, I love having family and friends over. Backyard BBQs, cookouts, holiday feasts—you name it. There’s just something about gathering around a table (or a grill) with people you love, sharing food and laughs.
This year, though, I have a mix of guests. Some are Thanksgiving pros who’ve been doing this forever, while others are, well… let’s just say they’re still figuring out what cranberry sauce is all about. So, I’ve set myself a little challenge: stick to the Thanksgiving tradition but make it a bit healthier and easier. Oh, and I’m not doing it all myself because sanity.
After some solid research (and a few panicked moments), I’ve nailed down a menu that I think checks all the boxes: delicious, healthy-ish, and still very much Thanksgiving. I’ll be making a few dishes myself (the sauces, salad, and bread), and the rest I’m ordering from a local restaurant. Let me walk you through what I’ve planned. This is my (OK cook’s) menu. For the ultimate Thanksgiving menu, check out this book:
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The Perfect Thanksgiving Menu
The Main Event: Turkey
Let’s start with the star of the show. I’m ordering a classic roasted turkey. It’s as traditional as it gets, but I’m asking the restaurant to go light on the butter and seasoning to keep it healthier.
For my guests who aren’t turkey fans, I’m throwing in a small honey-glazed ham as a backup. It’s optional, but honestly, leftovers are never a bad thing.
Savory Sides to Savor
Ah, the sides—the unsung heroes of Thanksgiving! Sure, the turkey gets all the attention, but let’s be real: the sides are what people actually remember. This year, I’m going for a mix of traditional favorites and lighter, fresher takes. Here’s the lineup:
1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are non-negotiable. But instead of the usual butter overload, I’m making them with olive oil and roasted garlic. It’s creamy, flavorful, and way less heavy. Plus, the garlic gives it a rich, savory punch without needing loads of salt or butter.
2. Sweet Potato Casserole
No marshmallow mountain here! My version of sweet potato casserole is topped with a crunchy pecan-oat crumble. The sweet potatoes are baked until soft and lightly sweetened with a drizzle of maple syrup and cinnamon. It’s warm, cozy, and feels like dessert sneaked onto the dinner table—but healthier.
3. Green Bean Almondine
Forget the creamy green bean casserole; I’m keeping it fresh and light with green bean almondine. Crisp-tender green beans are tossed with a touch of garlic, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of toasted almonds. It’s a refreshing side that doesn’t compete with the heavier dishes.
4. Whole-Grain Herb Stuffing
Stuffing is the ultimate comfort food, and I’m sticking with tradition—just tweaking it a bit. I’m ordering a whole-grain herb stuffing with chunks of whole-grain bread, fresh sage, thyme, and sweet cranberries. It’s hearty, flavorful, and has that perfect mix of savory and sweet.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
I couldn’t resist adding roasted Brussels sprouts to the mix. Tossed with olive oil and roasted until crispy, these little green gems are finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of sea salt. Even the sprout skeptics might go back for seconds.
What I’m Cooking
Here’s where I get to show off (just a little).
1. Cranberry Sauce from Scratch
Store-bought cranberry sauce? Not this year. I found a super easy recipe that uses fresh cranberries, orange zest, and just a touch of honey. It’s tart, tangy, and way better than anything from a can.
2. A Festive Salad
I’m making a harvest salad with mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, pomegranate seeds, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette. It’s colorful, fresh, and balances out all the heavier dishes.
3. Homemade Bread Rolls
I’m keeping it classic with soft dinner rolls. They’re surprisingly easy to make, and the smell of baking bread? Pure holiday magic.
Dessert: Pumpkin Pie, the Classic Hero
Let’s be honest, no Thanksgiving table is complete without pumpkin pie. I’m ordering mine from a local bakery that uses a whole-wheat crust and just the right amount of spices. It’s everything you want in a pumpkin pie—creamy, spiced, and topped with a dollop of whipped cream. Simple, classic, and guaranteed to please.
Keeping It Simple
What I love about this menu is that it’s easy to pull off. I’m not spending days in the kitchen, but I’m still putting my stamp on the meal with a few homemade touches. And by ordering the turkey and some sides, I can focus on actually enjoying the day instead of stressing over every little detail.
Plus, it’s a good mix of traditional Thanksgiving favorites and lighter, healthier options. Everyone gets a taste of the holiday, whether they’re seasoned Thanksgiving pros or experiencing it for the first time.
Hosting Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a marathon of cooking and cleaning. By mixing homemade dishes with a few restaurant picks, you can pull off a delicious, memorable meal without losing your mind.
So, what do you think? Does this menu sound like a winner? I’d love to hear your Thanksgiving plans—and if you have any go-to recipes, send them my way. Happy feasting!
