Thanksgiving Recipes

Favorite recipes for the most important meal of the year

I think favorite holidays change as we get older. As a kid it was all about holidays with presents, but now that I'm older, Thanksgiving is one of my absolute favorite celebrations of the year. I love the traditional foods, breaking out special wine, and spending the long weekend with friends and family. This year, my husband and I are going back to his hometown in Minnesota to spend Thanksgiving with his family. Because I work in advertising for online retailers, I am especially grateful that I get to spend this time on vacation while so many others are staying up all night in anticipation of Black Friday. I'm going to spend my time staying indoors to avoid the cold and help my mother-in-law with the Thanksgiving feast. I'm in charge of a few dishes and look forward to contributing some of my favorite recipes to the Thanksgiving table. 

*Looking for more Thanksgiving inspiration? Check out my Pinterest board.

Thanksgiving Recipes:

THE STAR OF THE SHOW

• Maple-Glazed Roast Turkey - My family's tried-and-true recipe.
• Slow-Roasted Whole Duck - If turkey isn't your thing, try making a crispy duck instead.

SIDE DISHES

• Leek & Mushroom Bread Pudding - Like traditional dressing, but with cheese!
• Baked Sweet Potatoes with Molasses-Chile Butter - A nice alternative to candied yams.
• Kale, Brussels Sprout, & Hazelnut Salad - Something healthy and green to add contrast to your plate.

DESSERT

• Pecan Pie - My favorite pie, ever.
• Apple Pie with Cinnamon Crumble - A free-form pie that's less fussy than the traditional.

Already thinking about the leftovers? Check out this guide to make the most out your leftover turkey.