Modern Twist on Thanksgiving Menu

October 15, 2014
Credit: Photo: Chris Court
Turn up the volume on holiday favorites while keeping a classic vibe. You'll please the crowd and your own creative flair.
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The Menu

Credit: Photo: Chris Court

Tried and true dishes have earned their place, but that doesn't mean they can't be jazzed up. Fun riffs on classic flavors bring family favorites to a new level.

  • Sautéed Green Beans with Spice-Glazed Pecans
  • Linguica Sausage Stuffing with Mushrooms
  • Cardamom-Glazed Carrots
  • Maple-Walnut Cranberry Pie
  • Caramelized Onion and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
  • Rosemary Butter-Rubbed Turkey with Porcini Gravy 
  • Cherry-Port Cranberry Sauce
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Sautéed Green Beans with Spice-Glazed Pecans

Credit: Photo: Chris Court
View Recipe: Sautéed Green Beans with Spice-Glazed Pecans

Beat the last-minute cooking frenzy by making the glazed pecans up to 3 days in advance and storing at room temperature in an airtight container; double the ingredients for an appetizer guests can munch on before the meal.

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Linguiça Sausage Stuffing with Mushrooms

Credit: Photo: Chris Court
View Recipe: Linguiça Sausage Stuffing with Mushrooms

This twist on a classic sausage and sourdough stuffing uses smoky Portuguese linguiça in place of crumbled pork sausage. Kielbasa or any smoked sausage would also work.

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Cardamom-Glazed Carrots

Credit: Photo: Chris Court
View Recipe: Cardamom-Glazed Carrots

Turn up the volume on classic glazed carrots with exotic cardamom and fragrant fresh ginger. If you can find multicolored carrots, use them for a lovely presentation, as we did in the photo. The parchment paper lid slows moisture loss just enough to form a beautiful glaze.

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Maple-Walnut Cranberry Pie

Credit: Photo: Chris Court
View Recipe: Maple-Walnut Cranberry Pie

While the buttery, maple-scented filling is inspired by classic pecan pie, we swap in toasted walnuts and add chopped fresh cranberries for a beautiful pop of color and tart flavor contrast that cuts the sweetness.

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Caramelized Onion and Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Credit: Photo: Chris Court
View Recipe: Caramelized Onion and Garlic Mashed Potatoes

You can respond to cries of "It's not Thanksgiving without mashed spuds!" by taking this classic to the next level: Think garlic-infused olive oil and sweet caramelized onions.

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Rosemary Butter-Rubbed Turkey with Porcini Gravy

Credit: Photo: Chris Court
View Recipe: Rosemary Butter-Rubbed Turkey with Porcini Gravy
Meaty shiitake and porcini mushrooms add incredible richness and depth to the gravy.

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Cherry-Port Cranberry Sauce

Credit: Photo: Chris Court
View Recipe: Cherry-Port Cranberry Sauce

Port adds a grown-up twist, but you can sub unsweetened cherry or pomegranate juice, if you like.

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