mashed potatoes

While it's hard to improve on classic comfort foods like mashed potatoes, a little tweak can go a long way. Goat cheese, leeks, and chives take this standard side dish to a new level of scrumptiousness. This recipe may be more complex with a couple of extra steps, but trust me, it is worth it! They're so delicious that no butter or gravy is required. The pure flavors of tangy goat cheese, savory leeks, and soft onions will satisfy anyone. If you want to impress your guests with these mouthwatering mashed potatoes, read more

Mashed potatoes are my number one comfort food, but in the past couple years, they've gotten a bad reputation for being high in carbs. So I've figured out a way to add some protein without changing the flavor or texture. Add some silken tofu to your cooked taters before you mash them (one package per 10 cooked russet potatoes). Not only does the tofu increase the amount of protein, but it also adds creaminess so I don't have to include butter, which helps reduce the fat content. Just be sure to mix the tofu and potatoes thoroughly. Since tofu has no taste, not even my husband knows there's tofu in his garlic mashed potatoes.

Source

Well, folks, today is the big day. Over the past several weeks, PartySugar and I have covered pointers on everything Thanksgiving — from grocery shopping to brining the bird to setting the table — except eating the food itself. Yet we understand, perhaps more than anybody else, that unpredictable issues arise in the kitchen. Last year, I made cranberry sauce that didn't turn out sweet enough, and two years ago, PartySugar tried not to panic when her gravy wouldn't thicken.

That's why we'll be around today (in between potato ricing and oven change-ups) to answer any questions you might have about making the perfect Thanksgiving meal. Unsure about a cooking temperature? Don't know what to stir into your mashed potatoes? Need a substitute for thyme? Just ask in the comments below — this is your forum for the big feast. Party and I (and any helpful readers!) are right here to help you. Happy eating!

Source

Many people think that serving your family a classic, delicious Thanksgiving requires days of work in the kitchen. However, with a little culinary savviness, one can make a complete meal in a couple of hours. Pick up store-bought snacks to tide over your crowd until turkey time. Put together a simple cheese plate with olives, nuts, figs, and charcuterie.

Cut cook time in half by serving a roasted turkey breast instead of a whole turkey. Keep the stuffing simple and the flavoring ingredients to a minimum. A gravy that doesn't require turkey drippings is another time saver. Combine the sweet potato side with the traditional mashed potatoes. Make a quick cranberry sauce with sugar, cranberries, and water. Serve one vegetable side in the form of a crunchy broccoli-cauliflower gratin. To look at these fast and easy recipes, read more

An easy way to cut the budget of your Thanksgiving feast is to make the dinner a potluck. You supply the appetizers, turkey, and one side, then ask the guests to fill in the blanks. Not going overboard on side dishes is another great way to trim costs. When there are too many side options guests can feel overwhelmed and may end up over-eating. Do them a favor and don't offer more then four side dishes.

Keep in mind that even on a limited budget, you can still create a delicious and elegant meal. Have goat cheese stuffed mushrooms with breadcrumbs waiting for your guests to arrive. Purchase a frozen turkey instead of a fresh one. Most supermarkets have sales around Thanksgiving on frozen turkeys and you can find one for $10 or less. Season the turkey with everyday ingredients like red onions and oranges. Make simple mashed potatoes as a side.

To get these wallet friendly recipes, read more