Giada's Top 5 Thanksgiving Recipes for 2023

As Thanksgiving approaches, there's a familiar hum of excitement in the air – the clinking of glassware, the rustling of leaves, and the delectable aroma of seasonal recipes simmering in kitchens across the country. In this landscape of festive abundance, Giada De Laurentiis, an iconic chef known for her Italian-American cuisine, brings us a unique take on traditional Thanksgiving flavors. Here are her top five recipes that promise to elevate your Thanksgiving dinner to a gourmet experience in 2023.

1. Butternut Squash Lasagna

This is not your everyday lasagna; it’s a celebration of fall’s finest produce wrapped in layers of comfort. Here’s how you can recreate Giada’s Butternut Squash Lasagna:

• Ingredients: Butternut squash, ricotta, Parmesan, lasagna noodles, sage, mozzarella.
• Steps:
  1. Roast the butternut squash until tender and mash or blend into a puree.
  2. Prepare the ricotta filling with seasonings, Parmesan, and a hint of nutmeg.
  3. Layer the lasagna sheets with the butternut squash puree, ricotta filling, sage leaves, and shredded mozzarella.
  4. Bake until bubbly and golden.

🍁 Note: When selecting butternut squash, look for those that are heavy for their size indicating freshness and flavor.

2. Citrus Herb Turkey with Pan Gravy

Giada’s Citrus Herb Turkey is a departure from the standard turkey, infusing it with the zest of oranges, lemons, and the fragrance of fresh herbs:

• Ingredients: A whole turkey, oranges, lemons, thyme, rosemary, butter, salt, and pepper.
• Steps:
  1. Prepare the turkey by patting it dry and seasoning the cavity with salt and pepper.
  2. Stuff the turkey with citrus halves and herb sprigs.
  3. Rub the turkey with a butter and herb mixture for a flavorful crust.
  4. Roast, and use the drippings for an aromatic pan gravy.

3. Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Balsamic Reduction

For a side that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious, try Giada’s Brussels Sprouts:

• Ingredients: Brussels sprouts, pancetta, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Steps:
  1. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.
  2. Crisp the pancetta in a skillet before adding the Brussels sprouts.
  3. Sauté with garlic until tender, then drizzle with a balsamic reduction to finish.

4. Tuscan Mashed Potatoes

Taking the classic to another level, Giada infuses mashed potatoes with Tuscan flavors:

• Ingredients: Potatoes, olive oil, Pecorino Romano cheese, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
• Steps:
  1. Boil peeled and chopped potatoes until tender.
  2. Whip with a generous amount of olive oil, cheese, and just enough milk for creaminess.

5. Pumpkin Tiramisu

Conclude your meal with a twist on a classic Italian dessert, Giada’s Pumpkin Tiramisu:

• Ingredients: Pumpkin puree, mascarpone, ladyfingers, espresso, coffee liqueur, cocoa powder, cinnamon, sugar, eggs.
• Steps:
  1. Mix the pumpkin puree with mascarpone, egg yolks, sugar, and spices.
  2. Layer the soaked ladyfingers with the pumpkin mixture.
  3. Finish with a dusting of cocoa powder and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

As the dinner draws to a close, these recipes from Giada De Laurentiis ensure that Thanksgiving is not only about tradition but also about the joy of trying something new. The fusion of classic American dishes with Italian flair offers an innovative and memorable dining experience. Each recipe has been crafted to highlight the best of autumn’s bounty, showcasing the variety and richness of the season’s produce. The touch of creativity will leave your guests savoring every bite, reminiscing about the unique flavors long after the meal is over.

Can I prepare any of these dishes in advance?

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Yes, several dishes can be made ahead. The lasagna, for example, can be assembled and refrigerated a day in advance, or even frozen for up to a month. Just add extra baking time if it’s coming straight from the freezer.

What alternatives can I use for ingredients I’m allergic to?

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If you’re dairy-free, you can replace cheese with vegan alternatives. For nut allergies, avoid nuts in recipes or use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for texture. Giada often highlights vegetarian or easily adaptable options, so feel free to experiment.

How can I make sure my turkey stays moist?

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Brining or basting with butter or a mixture of citrus and herbs will help keep the turkey moist. Ensure not to overcook; use a thermometer to check the internal temperature. The breast should be around 165°F (74°C).