Modern Twist on Thanksgiving Menu

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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