Go beyond rolls and pototoes for turkey dinner appetizers this Thanksgiving.
Whether it's for Thanksgiving or just a casual dinner, cooking up great appetizers can transform a turkey dinner from average to unique and different. Simple appetizers can cater to a variety of tastes and dietary needs, from gluten-free to low-sodium. They can also be very simple to prepare, using only ingredients you already have in your refrigerator.
Cranberry Chutney and Toasted Almonds
Create a simple cranberry chutney by combining one package of cranberries with 3/4 cup of water and sugar to taste in a medium saucepan. Cook at medium heat, stirring frequently, until the berries pop. Allow it to cool and add some tart fruit, such as oranges. Toast almonds, sprinkled with sugar if desired, in a toaster oven and arrange on top of the crock of chutney. Serve with crackers or dry cookies, such as oatcakes.
Baked Pears
Cut pears in half and bake them at 325 degrees until just soft, about 15-20 minutes. Dress, if desired, with a drizzle of molasses, Madeira wine or simply cinnamon and sugar. This makes for a quick, health-conscious appetizer. Goat cheese served alongside the pears makes for a more savory and substantial appetizer.
Roasted Acorn Squash with Carrots and Peppers
A simple casserole of roasted acorn squash, baked with red, yellow and green peppers, presents a colorful vegetable appetizer. Leftover squash can easily work in this dish. Mix with freshly sliced peppers and seasoned with herbs, such as a small amount of thyme and sage, then bake at 350 degrees in a casserole dish for 30 minutes if starting with a raw squash, or 15 minutes if starting with leftover, already-baked squash . This can also be a meal if topped with a light dusting of Parmesan cheese, or with homemade sausage added.
Toasted Pumpkin Bread with Sauces
Perhaps you have an extra loaf of pumpkin bread and don't want it to go stale. Turn it into biscotti-like toasted slices, and serve with toppings as either an appetizer or a dessert. Slice the bread into 1/2-inch slices, and toast at 150-175 degrees for 30-40 minutes, or until dry and crisp. Serve arranged on a plate, with both sweet and savory dipping sauces. This also works well with other seasonal breads that are not too sweet, such as zucchini bread.
Roasted Chestnut and Goat Cheese Salad
Salads of greens, goat cheese, dried fruit and walnuts have become popular options at many restaurants. Make your own version at home, substituting roasted chestnuts for walnuts. For more seasonal flair and color, add sliced pears and apples with the peel on, as well as toasted pumpkin seeds.
Tags: minutes starting, minutes starting with, starting with, This also, turkey dinner