Thanksgiving is more than just a day off; it's an opportunity to share warmth, gratitude, and delicious food with loved ones. Every year, Good Morning America shares a plethora of recipes that cater to both traditionalists and adventurers in the kitchen. Here are five standout Thanksgiving recipes from Good Morning America that you simply must try this year!
1. Herbed Turkey with Maple Glaze
Nothing says Thanksgiving quite like a perfectly roasted turkey. This recipe elevates the classic bird with a delightful twist:
- Main Ingredients: Whole turkey, fresh thyme, rosemary, sage, garlic, olive oil, pure maple syrup.
- Method:
- Pat the turkey dry, season it generously inside and out with salt, pepper, and garlic.
- Stuff the turkey with the herbs.
- Mix olive oil with maple syrup for a glaze.
- Roast the turkey, glazing it periodically to create a caramelized crust.
🔥 Note: Always check the turkey’s internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked safely to at least 165°F (74°C).
2. Caramelized Onion and Pear Tart
Change up your Thanksgiving side game with this sophisticated tart:
- Ingredients: Puff pastry, butter, onions, ripe pears, blue cheese, walnuts, thyme, and egg wash.
- Steps:
- Roll out puff pastry and prick the base with a fork.
- Caramelize onions slowly in butter until deep golden brown.
- Layer pears, onions, crumbled blue cheese, and walnuts on the pastry.
- Brush with egg wash, sprinkle thyme, and bake until golden and puffed.
3. Savory Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel
This isn’t your grandmother’s sweet potato casserole. It’s a savory delight:
- What You Need: Sweet potatoes, unsalted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, pecans, flour, and a hint of bourbon.
- Directions:
- Boil and mash sweet potatoes.
- Mix in butter, brown sugar, and spices.
- Prepare the streusel by combining butter, flour, pecans, and a dash of bourbon.
- Top the potatoes with streusel and bake until golden.
🍴 Note: You can omit the bourbon for an alcohol-free version, or substitute with a sweet liqueur.
4. Cranberry-Walnut Kale Salad
Add some freshness to your heavy Thanksgiving menu with this vibrant salad:
- Ingredients: Kale, fresh cranberries, walnuts, feta, olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard.
- Instructions:
- Massage kale leaves with olive oil to soften them.
- Whisk together the dressing with lemon juice, honey, and mustard.
- Toss kale with cranberries, walnuts, and feta, then drizzle with dressing.
5. Pumpkin Gingersnap Trifle
End your meal on a sweet note with this layered dessert:
- Key Components: Pumpkin puree, spices, ginger snaps, whipped cream, vanilla pudding, and a hint of rum.
- Preparation:
- Make a spiced pumpkin pudding.
- Crush ginger snaps for layers.
- Layer pudding, whipped cream, and ginger snap crumbles in a trifle dish.
Thanksgiving is all about celebrating with a bountiful spread, and these Good Morning America recipes offer a fresh take on traditional favorites. From the heartwarming Herbed Turkey to the refreshing Cranberry-Walnut Kale Salad, you're set to impress your guests. Remember, the joy of Thanksgiving doesn't just come from the feast itself, but from the time spent with loved ones, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Can I make these recipes ahead of time?
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Yes! Most of these recipes can be prepped in advance. The Herbed Turkey and the Sweet Potato Casserole can be mostly assembled the day before and finished on the day of serving. The salad can be prepped, but dress it just before serving to keep it fresh.
How can I ensure the turkey remains moist?
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Covering the turkey with foil during initial roasting helps keep it moist. Remove the foil to brown the skin towards the end. Also, don’t skimp on the basting or brining, which helps retain moisture.
What if I’m not a fan of blue cheese in the tart?
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Feel free to substitute with goat cheese, feta, or even a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile. The key is to keep the cheese from being too overpowering so it complements the pears and onions.
