Planning the Thanksgiving menu is one of my favorite activities of the holiday season, and I fully embrace the challenge of satisfying the traditionalists in my family (yes Dad, cranberry jelly will be happening) while following my own impulse to put a modern spin on a few of the dishes. Today’s menu is what I’d be serving if it were just up to me: Thanksgiving must-haves like turkey and cornbread stuffing find their way to the table, but the flavors have been spiced up a bit and the fresh, seasonal ingredients keep it from feeling like a menu that’ll put you in a turkey coma. Click through for my favorite new way to serve the turkey and the pumpkin gingersnap pie I dream about all year long… and I’d love to hear in the comments: what new twists do you like to put on Thanksgiving tradition?
image via ginny branch
Spiced Winter Wine
This pot of simmering mulled wine seasoned with cinnamon, orange and vanilla makes the whole house smell like fall.
Sausage, Cherry & Sage-Stuffed Turkey Breast
Though a whole roasted bird is traditional, I think that a turkey breast rolled up with stuffing is hands-down the most flavorful way to serve the bird on Thanksgiving.
Poblano Cornbread Stuffing
The addition of poblano peppers adds just the right kick (and we even snuck in some kale.)
Get the recipe here.
Root Vegetable & Quinoa Salad with Tahini Maple Vinaigrette
No Thanksgiving-binge guilt here. This salad is so hearty that it makes a great main-course option for vegetarian guests.
Get the recipe here.
Green Bean, Toasted Walnut & Pecorino Salad
Green beans are a “must” on the Thanksgiving table, and they’re anything but boring when studded with red onions, walnuts and pecorino.
Get the recipe here.
Pumpkin Gingersnap Pie
This is my favorite pie in the world, and it also happens to be ridiculously easy — a perfect choice for someone who only bakes, say, every Thanksgiving?
Get the recipe here.
**For lots more Thanksgiving menu inspiration, check out our full Thanksgiving hub here!**
