Creating a Non-Traditional Thanksgiving Meal

For many who enjoy cooking, the Thanksgiving holiday is an opportunity to flaunt their culinary skills. Although you may be able to impress your guests with a beautiful golden roasted turkey stuffed with a delicious herb dressing, a less traditional meal may be even more appreciated.

In deciding on a menu, consider what are your best dishes. You may also want to create a menu around a holiday related theme such as a multi-cultural celebration (that is foods from a variety of cultures), a community inspired menu (great for out-of-town guests, consider a menu that reflects your community such as philly steak sandwiches or Memphis barbecue) or dishes that represent a season such as autumn. For some ideas, take a look at the following Thanksgiving menus.

An Apple Thanksgiving

During this season apples are in abundance. Consequently, one Thanksgiving meal idea might be one that celebrates the apple harvest.

Appetizer - butternut squash and apple soup
Main Course - apple glazed barbecue chicken, apple cider green beans, and an apple potato salad
Dessert - apple dumplings and an apple spice cake
Beverage - sparkling apple cider

A Football Thanksgiving

Football is as common to Thanksgiving as turkey. This year, why not create a more casual and sports friendly meal centered around the theme of football.

Appetizer - homemade chili
Main Course - meatball subs and shrimp "po-boy" sandwiches, baked beans and spicy cole slaw
Dessert(s) - chocolate peanut butter pie and rum cake
Beverage(s) - beer, wine and soft drinks

A Child's Thanksgiving Celebration

Have a fun and adventurous Thanksgiving meal with games, craft activities and the children's favorite foods. Do it gourmet style and it will be holiday dinner that everyone will remember.

Appetizer - homemade pizza squares and veggie tray
Main Course - turkey nuggets, mini-burgers, and spinach macaroni and cheese
Dessert(s) - assortment of cookies and caramel apples
Beverage - milk bar with chocolate and strawberry syrups, hot chocolate with marshmallows

A Southern Inspired Thanksgiving Celebration

Celebrate Thanksgiving with an array of fine southern cuisine. These dishes are sure to satisfy all of your guests and their taste buds.

Appetizer - shrimp gumbo and deviled eggs
Main Course - fried catfish, southern greens, candied yams and cornbread
Dessert - sweet potato pie and red velvet cake
Beverage - sweet tea and lemonade