Perfect Thanks and Giving

Perfecting Thanks and Giving! 

There are a million articles, shows and recipes about Thanksgiving this time of the year...Of course all the pro's come out to show you how it is done. There are a few that I have found to to be tried and true turkey wise; plus, a few additions to the table that are unique to us,  but loved by all who try them! So I'll share the turkey methods I prefer, and bring some new additions to the Table as well as a new Thanksgiving table setting! 

Menu- Let's Create a Plan

Perfect Two Hour Turkey
Prepare by defrosting your turkey, if not a fresh turkey. About 24 hrs per 5-6 lbs. So a 22lb turkey can take 4 days in the fridge! I buy at least 18-24 lbs. I find anything smaller is buying a lot of bone weight.

Make Ahead Sides With EasePrepare these sides 1-2 days ahead of time. Remove from refrigerator around 1 hour prior to completion of turkey. As the turkey rests for twenty minutes bake them at 350 degrees. Everything will arrive at the table at the same time, hot and ready! 

• Cranberry, Sausage and Brown Bread Stuffing 

Make a day ahead and stuff this one in the neck cavity, not the body.  

• Perfect Rustic Corn Bread Stuffing 

Make a day ahead and bake in a dish. 

• Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish

Make at least 24 hours ahead of time for optimum flavor. 

• Praline-Orange Yams

Make a day ahead and bake

• Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes

The Sour Cream makes them smooth and creamy! Make ahead by roasting potatoes with skins on, in oven, or boiling and letting rest in fresh water earlier in the day. Roasted anything tastes so much better, and the nutrients stay intact as apposed to boiling.

• Buttery Green Beans Almondine with Crispy Leeks

Leeks may sound unusual but the flavors are a mild combo of garlic and onion. So a wonderful, very easy component to Green Beans and almonds!

Make a LOT! I'm telling you I have the perfect foods for the leftovers, which is sincerely my favorite part!