Photo Credit: Alexander Raths
Thanksgiving is the beginning of the holiday season- a season of giving, family, and appreciation. Families gather on this day to be thankful, yes, but they also gather for the food! Many of us have our own traditions on Thanksgiving, but one constant throughout every family is the delicious,and healthy,food. This holiday season, load your table and your belly with these 5 must have Thanksgiving foods.
1. Mashed Potatoes
Thanksgiving is not Thanksgiving without mashed potatoes! This must have food is always a hit. Make extra and you can have it as left-overs for weeks! Best with seasoning, butter, and gravy, this traditional food fills tummies across the country. Unlike the turkey, mashed potatoes are very easy to make and not very time consuming, making it even more favorable to the ones preparing the food.
2. Cranberry Sauce
Both kids and adults love this classic ‘sauce’! Cranberry sauce, at least in my family, is usually the first thing to be eaten. This sweet addition to your Thanksgiving plate balances well with all the other vegetables and meat options on your plate. Cranberry sauce so special to any Thanksgiving meal because it’s not typically eaten regularly throughout the year. It’s a seasonal food that brings many memories of the holidays.
3. Corn
Corn is so good because it’s so versatile. Corn on the cob or off the cob is great either way! This is the most traditional of all Thanksgiving foods; according to legend, the Native Americans first showed Europeans this vegetable and had the first Thanksgiving meal.
4. Stuffing
Stuffing can be served either inside the turkey or on its own, but either way this hearty food is always a hit. This is another very easy food to make, especially because you can buy it pre-packaged. If you serve it inside the turkey, the more seasoning you add to stuffing the better because it will seep into the turkey, making for a more delicious and juicy main dish.
5. Pumpkin Pie
This classic Thanksgiving dessert could never be beat! Simply add whipped cream or some ice cream, and you have yourself a delicious holiday dessert. The flavor alone is very festive and is best when served at Thanksgiving after a large, filling meal. It’s the perfect end to a perfect meal with loved ones!