Monday Musings Vol. 21 // Gobble Gobble Here We go!
Most people are jumping straight to their Christmas decor, but I’m a traditionalist and firmly believe in celebrating each holiday and tradition as it comes! Because of this, today’s musings will be all about Thanksgiving prep. We’re going to be talking about everything from dishes to decor and meal prep checklists. Does your family have a fun Thanksgiving tradition? If so, share it in the comments below.
MENUS & MEAL PREP
Any big dinner even requires a plan and prep, Thanksgiving included. Whether you have 4 people or 14, make your event as enjoyable as possible by creating a plan and sticking to it. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help! Have someone bring the ice, a side or two, let them pick the wine, don’t try to be Martha Stewart — she has a whole team of people making her picture perfect magazine covers!
The Prep
Keep your menu simple, don’t try to please everyone. Sick with the basics, and make them delicious and unforgettable! Great apps, one terrific main dish, 3 to 4 sides, rolls (don’t forget the rolls!), and a pie or two. Sounds a bit overwhelming, but if you’re organized and start working on it today, you’ve totally got this down.
When thinking about the menu, think about what can be made ahead. Are you making pies? Make the dough today and get it in the freezer. Making rolls, make them, do one proof, and then freeze before your second rise. Green bean casserole? Make it and freeze it… it’s even better than fresh made! Using mashed sweet potatoes? Roast them, mash them, and get them in the freezer. If you are going to to work ahead and freeze some things don’t forget to take them out and thaw them in time to bake!
The week of thanksgiving, don’t wait for the day of to do your prep. Chop your onions, any veggies you’re going to roast, measure out your spices and ingredients, and get them ready for action for the big day. I love using these containers for all my prep work! They’re perfect for setting up an efficient prep situation. Don’t for get to use some tape and a marker, and write down what it is and what it’s for!
The day before Thanksgiving is the big prep day, you can get so much done and then the next morning will be smooth sailing. Make/prep your appetizers, if you’re doing a salad, get those ingredients prepped and ready to assemble, and make your salad dressing. Bake your white potatoes for mashed potatoes and make the pies or any desserts. Once you’re prepped, relax and get ready for a day of thanks with your family. If you’re prepared, this day shouldn’t be crazy and overwhelming, it should be fun and memorable!
TABLESCAPES & DECOR
With Christmas right around the corner, I think a simple approach to decor and tables for Thanksgiving is crucial for a stress-free holiday season. Let’s be honest, Thanksgiving is all about the food — I mean loved ones. But really, let the food take center stage! Use your pies, sides, and mains as the center point for your table decor. Throw in some simple greenery, unscented candles, gorgeous napkins, beautiful dishes, and call it a day.
Shop my Thanksgiving Inspo
Quick Tip: If you are hosting, take some time this weekend, make sure everything is washed and ready to go. Create your little stack and game plan. Get together the serving utensils, make sure the plates and napkins are washed and ready, and the wine glasses are clean and spot free! There’s nothing worse than on Thanksgiving, right when you’re taking everything out of the oven, having to run around looking for the serving spoon you haven’t used in a year!
Want some Freebies?
Check out these place card downloads designed for you to print at home!
Are you a checklist kinda kid? Have no fear! I’ve got you covered. Download my Thanksgiving prep checklist.
Our Thanksgiving Menu
charcuterie & cheese board with an assortment of fruits and pickled veggies
baked brie with a cranberry and walnut topping
THE MAIN EVENT
still working on the details... but this is what I'm thinking.
NOLA brussel sprout salad (recipe coming soon!)
roasted pork loin with porchini mushrooms
sweet potato casserole with pistachio crust
roasted asperagus
grandmother's dressing
homemade yeast rolls
DESSERT
pumpkin pie bars
bourbon pecan pie
What are you making for the big day? Share your favorite tips, tricks, or recipes below!
