10 Unique Recipes Perfect for Thanksgiving
You can thank us later.
Thanksgiving is almost here! And alongside the fun and family time comes the big question: What will you cook?
Whether you’re making the full spread or contributing a single dish to a Friendsgiving, deciding what exactly to cook for Thanksgiving can be so difficult. On top of the pressure to provide, there’s also the mental calculation that goes into a full meal.
While we’re all for having a few traditional dishes on the table – seriously, who doesn’t love mashed potatoes?! – adding a few new flavors to the mix can make a huge impact. And, thankfully, searching for inspiration isn’t difficult . . . in fact, we’ve done all the work for you!
Starters
Tiropsomo with Olives
Derived from the words "tiri" meaning cheese and "psomi” meaning bread, this flavorsome version from Helena and Vikki Moursellas is filled black olives and crumbled feta. Crusty on the outside with a soft, fluffy centre, this comforting dish is an easy way to fill your home with the smell of freshly-baked bread – it requires little kneading and can be prepared and baked on the same day.
Roasted Peppers and Eggplant Pastitsio
This classic Greek baked-pasta dish traditionally consists of meat, but this vegetarian-friendly version utilises roasted capsicums and eggplants for a delicious flavour that won't disappoint. The béchamel sauce adds a rich creaminess while the pasta adds the carby goodness we all love.
Sides
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Yogurt and Pistachios
If you’d prefer your sweet potatoes without marshmallows this year, this is your recipe. Nutty, crunchy, and super-satisfying, these potatoes are the perfect texture and offer a delightful umami flavor that is too often missing in Thanksgiving dinner.
Homemade Foccacia With Leeks, Ricotta and Honey
We know, we know. Homemade focaccia sounds like an undertaking, but it’s actually quite simple. As long as you leave enough time to allow the dough to rise, even novice bakers should be able to pull this one off.
Savory Carrot Tarte Tatin
Don’t let carrots be the underdog this Thanksgiving! While this savory Tarte Tatin might sound complex, the recipe is surprisingly simple. Hints of turmeric, coriander, and ginger will brighten your thanksgiving spread, delighting even the pickiest of eaters.
Roast Pumpkin With Salsa Verde and Greek Yogurt
By this time of year, you likely have pumpkin spice fatigue. Instead of opting for the usual suspects when it comes to flavoring pumpkin (we're talking about cinnamon and nutmeg), this recipe instead calls on salsa verde and greek yogurt. Trust us. Your guests will be begging you to make this one year after year.
Pumpkin Gnocchi With Butter and Sage
To all you vegetarians out there, we see you! Thanksgiving is notorious for being less-than-friendly to vegetarians, but we’re about to change all that. If you hope to serve up a veggie main alongside the turkey, we couldn’t recommend this pumpkin gnocchi enough. It’s fun to make and turns out a dish that’s as vibrant in taste as it is in color.
Dessert
Sicilian Apple Cake
Bring some classic fall flavors to the table with this dreamy apple cake. This sophisticated cake will hit the spot after your Thanksgiving dinner with the perfect amount of cinnamon and dotted with rum-soaked raisins.
Chocolate Tart with Roasted Hazelnuts
Instead of pie, why not go with a tart this year? A rich ganache fills a crisp chocolate crust, then it’s all topped with crunchy roasted hazelnuts. Sorry pumpkin pie, but something about finishing a big meal with chocolate just feels so right.
Basque Burnt Cheesecake with Orange Bay Leaf Syrup
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels a little bit fancy this year, don’t go past this Basque burnt cheesecake. The light, creamy cheesecake is elevated even further with a fragrant syrup served alongside.
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