The coronavirus has changed the way we do things, and the holidays are no exception. While holiday gatherings may be smaller this year, you can still enjoy a hearty, delicious meal with your household — and with extended family through video chat. Whether you’re accustomed to entertaining a crowd or cooking Thanksgiving dinner in its entirety for the first time, use these tips to make this year’s celebration special and delicious, just on a smaller scale.
Stick to Your Family’s Favorite Dishes
Every family has its favorite — and not so favorite — Thanksgiving dinner dish. Think back to Thanksgivings passed, is there a recipe that no one requests seconds of? Curate your holiday menu based on the dishes that your family can’t get enough of, and skip the least favorite side dishes this year. Not only will you save time, but you’ll also cut down on food waste.
Prepare Canned Vegetables
Did you know you can prepare many Thanksgiving sides and desserts with items you already have in your pantry? From that classic green bean casserole your family loves to corn casseroles and cornbread, canned vegetables are perfect for all of your holiday cooking needs. Green Valley organic whole kernel corn, peas and green beans are pantry must-haves this season. We harvest our organic vegetables at the peak of ripeness to ensure the most delicious, fresh taste and vibrant colors possible for your family to enjoy. Visit our store locator to find Green Valley organic vegetables, beans and pumpkin near you or shop online!
Buy a Smaller Turkey or Ham
While turkey or ham may have been the center of the meal in previous years, a large source of protein may be too much food for a small dinner with immediate family. Consider purchasing a smaller turkey, or even a chicken to cut down on food waste and make cooking this year’s meal more manageable. Looking for an alternate main course altogether this year? Try our mini chicken pot pies for a fun, delicious and simple way to refresh your typical Thanksgiving menu.
Make Your Own Dessert
Baking your own pumpkin pie or other dessert is not as daunting as it may seem! Cutting into a homemade pie made from scratch is so much more satisfying than a store bought dessert. Use Green Valley organic pumpkin to add delicious, organic flavor to your pumpkin pie. You can even create miniature pumpkin pies for everyone in your family to top with whipped cream or ice cream. Or, try our pumpkin garbanzo bean cookie skillet recipe for a healthier twist on a decadent dessert everyone in your family will love.
Get Creative with The Leftovers
Sometimes the best part about Thanksgiving dinner is that you can enjoy it again and again! Chances are, you’re going to end up with some leftovers regardless of the size of your main course. Make the most of your leftovers by preparing to create meals with remaining turkey, ham and side dishes. For example, use remaining turkey to make sandwiches, or even white bean turkey chili, quesadillas with corn salsa, and a variety of different soups and stews.
How are you planning for a more intimate Thanksgiving dinner this year? Share your recipes and posts with us on Facebook and Instagram. For more organic recipes and cooking inspiration, visit our recipe page.
Get a bite of these delicious family style dishes
Check Out These Autumn-Inspired Recipes
Check Out These Scary Good Pumpkin Recipe
Dive into these easy mini-chef-approved recipes