As Thanksgiving approaches, we reflect on what we’re thankful for. Naturally, fashion and food are close seconds behind the fabulous people that rock our world. Show your thanks this Turkey Day with a little home cooking. With these easy and fun dishes, you’ll be the party guest that everyone thanks.
1. Cranberry Sauce (Courtesy of The Food Network)
Cranberry sauce is a Thanksgiving staple that you either love or hate. Nonetheless, it completes a Thanksgiving feast. Bring this whipped cranberry dressing (seriously, who doesn’t love whipped cream?) to pleasantly surprise the hostess. Making this spin on a holiday classic is a gesture that shows you care and are adventurous. The best part? It only takes 10 minutes to make.
Ingredients:
1 can whole-berry cranberry sauce
1/2 an orange
2 cups freshly whipped cream
“Touch” of confectioners’ sugar
Get the full how-to from The Food Network.
2. Mac and Cheese (Courtesy of The Food Network)
Everyone loves mac n’ cheese. Mom-made vs. Kraft-made is still up for debate, but if you’re bringing it as a dish to a party, you’ll definitely want to make it from scratch. This recipe is almost as easy as the box version, just yummier and classier for Thanksgiving potluck party-goers. Add creative green garnishings for that final culinary touch.
Ingredients:
Kosher salt
12 ounces gemelli, cavatappi or other spiral-shaped pasta
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon dry mustard
Pinch of cayenne pepper
1 (12-ounce) can of evaporated milk
1/2 cup whole milk
3/4 cup shredded yellow sharp cheddar cheese
3/4 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, chives and/or scallions
Get the full how-to from The Food Network.
3. Rum Balls (Courtesy of Martha Stewart)
Worried you’ll show up with a pumpkin pie only to find five other pumpkin pies already on the dessert table? Try something different, a little more unique. Rum balls are the perfect answer and work perfectly if you’ve had your fill of traditional Thanksgiving desserts. Side note: Keep the type of Thanksgiving party in mind when determining how much rum to use.
Ingredients:
Vegetable oil, cooking spray
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
6 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
3 large eggs
1/2 cup packed light-brown sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons dark rum
Coarse sanding sugar, for rolling
Get the full how-to from Martha Stewart.
This Thanksgiving, we have so much to be thankful for. Show your friends and family how much they mean to you with a little homecooked love. These quick recipes can easily be made in small college student kitchens. Be the guest that the hostess wants at all her parties, and surprise your friends and family with your cooking prowess. Make an extra batch if you’re feeling ambitious – it’s a great way to stock your dorm’s mini-fridge for after Thanksgiving munchies.
-Erica Ligenza
Images courtesy of: The Food Network (1, 2)and Martha Stewart