With Thanksgiving just a few short weeks away you're probably beginning to think about your holiday dinner. There's nothing wrong with keeping it traditional. I for one look forward to indulging in the standards like stuffing with gravy, sweet corn pudding and pies! But with food allergies and special dietary needs on the rise - low carb, low sugar, dairy free, vegetarian, flexetarian, vegan, Paleo, Keto, gluten free...its important to make sure there's something for everyone. Here are four food trends to help you plan a modern Thanksgiving Menu.
Apples Beyond Dessert
Applesauce is great. But try something unexpected like adding sweet and juicy apples to savory side dishes like root vegetable mash or celery root puree. This is also a great low-carb alternative for those who may be looking for something other than stuffing and potatoes.
Fermented Foods
Fermented foods soared in popularity in 2017. Update your standard crudites platter with pickled vegetables. Kick up roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans with zesty Kimchi. Simply chop and toss it with the vegetables during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
No-Silverware Dessert (Photo of Pumpkin Hand Pies from Woman'sDay)
Hand pies are still on trend this year and making them with your favorite pie recipe is easy! Roll out pie dough to 1/8" thickness and cut with a 4 1/2" seasonal cookie cutter (e.g. leaves, pumpkins, apples). Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. Spoon 1-2 TBSP of your favorite filling into the center of half of the cut outs then brush the edges with water. Top with the remaining halves and seal the edges with a fork. Refrigerate for another 30 minutes. Brush with egg wash and bake in 375 degree oven 20-40 minutes or until golden.
Meatless Mains
More Americans are seeking to increase their veggie consumption and are leaning toward plant based diets. Considering adding a meatless main dish to your menu this year. Stuffed squash is colorful, seasonal and protein packed alternative. Simply roast and season halved acorn or butternut squash. Remove the seeds. Season the cavity and fill with a medley of cooked quinoa roasted veggies, nuts, fresh herbs, seasonings and goat cheese. (Skip the cheese for a vegan alternative). Roast in a preheated 425 degree oven for 30-40 minutes.
Watch for more chefs tips and techniques for Thanksgiving in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, you can get more inspiration from our Thanksgiving Pinterest Board.