November is coming to a close, which means one thing: Thanksgiving is here! The focus of Thanksgiving is, of course, gratitude, but the food comes in a close second. Whether you look forward to Thanksgiving for the turkey or the pie, everyone needs some reliable recipes for any holiday gathering. These side dishes work for Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving, and make great leftovers!
The first recipe is a classic side, and one of my personal favorites. “For Love and Lemons” presents a simple mashed potato recipe that is sure to wow your guests. For the full recipe, click here: https://www.loveandlemons.com/mashed-potatoes/
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds potatoes (russet potatoes, Yukon Golds, or a mix), peeled and cut into large chunks
- 3 garlic cloves
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick) plus more for serving
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1½ teaspoons sea salt, plus more for the cooking water
- Freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ to ½ cup sour cream, optional
- Chopped fresh chives, for garnish
Instructions:
- Place the potatoes and garlic in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Season the water with a tablespoon of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and gently boil for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return to the pot.
- Begin to mash the potatoes and garlic with a potato masher. When they are partially mashed, add the butter, milk, salt, and several grinds of pepper. Continue mashing until the potatoes reach your desired consistency (we like them totally smooth), then use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold in the sour cream, if using.
- Season to taste and serve topped with butter and chives.
The next recipe is one from my family, and is beloved at our Thanksgiving gatherings. It is a twist on the traditional apple pie, with a cookie-like crust and gooey apple filling.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 Granny Smith apples
- 1 cup sugar
- ¾ cup softened butter
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup flour
- 1 beaten egg
- Dash of cinnamon
Instructions:
- Peel and slice apples and lay them in a pie dish. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar.
- Mix the 1 cup sugar, softened butter, flour and egg to create the dough. Stir in pecans.
- Place the dough on top of the apples. It will be chunky like cookie dough.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 45 min.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
We hope you enjoy these recipes, Royals! Have a happy Thanksgiving break.
