Halloween is now a distant memory, which means it’s time to begin preparing for a memorable holiday season. Whether this is your first time preparing the family meal or you’re an old pro, we’ve got you covered. Check out Gateway’s guide to the perfect holiday meal—without all the stress.
The 5 Most Beloved Thanksgiving Foods
What you serve at Thanksgiving depends a lot on where you’re from and what your family likes. When it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, most would agree the side dishes are the star of the show. Thesedelicious meals are easy to make and very kid-friendly, so consider including them in your meal this year.
What about other Thanksgiving fare? Everyone agrees that turkey is a must, but which sides are the most beloved? According to a recent Insider ranking, the five foods you absolutely have to put on your table include:
- Cranberry sauce
- Macaroni and cheese
- Rolls
- Stuffing
- Mashed potatoes with gravy
Of course, no Texas Thanksgiving would be complete without some lemonade and sweet tea, so don’t forget the refreshments!
Healthy Substitutes
In an ideal world, we could all live on pumpkin pie and pecan rolls. But if your guests have special dietary needs or food allergies, you may have to make some healthy substitutes. Here are some easy ways to enjoy Thanksgiving fare without sacrificing good health:
- Replace carb and sugar-rich foods with healthier options. Sweet potatoes are lower on the glycemic index than traditional potatoes, making them an ideal choice for diabetics.
- Include some easy-to-chew food for seniors with chewing or swallowing issues and toddlers just learning to eat. Mashed potatoes, fruit smoothies, and soft casseroles are always a great bet.
- Make room for new, healthy traditions. You don’t have to fry all your vegetables. Serve up a delightful salad garnished with pecans and goat cheese for a filling and delicious dose of fiber.
Catering to Picky Eaters and Special Dietary Needs
Everyone deserves to enjoy the holiday. The following strategies can help you cater to picky eaters and those with special needs:
- Ask about food allergies. These allergies are no joke, and you may need to take special precautions to keep your loved ones safe.
- Invite people to bring food they love. This means you’ll have more variety, spend less time cooking, and everyone will have at least one food they love to eat.
- Make some vegetarian options. Just leave the meat off some food. There’s no need to make something special.
- Plan some kid-friendly fare. Chicken nuggets, peanut butter sandwiches, and other easy dishes are perennial favorites among the youngest diners.
It’s Not All About the Food
Everyone loves a good meal, but the truth is you don’t have to gorge yourself on turkey and stuffing to have an amazing Thanksgiving. The true holiday spirit is about the company you keep. So, carve out some time for your loved ones. Don’t run yourself so ragged preparing the “perfect” meal that you pass out before you get to enjoy it. Spend some time thinking about how you truly want to spend the holidays, whether it’s playing cards with your favorite elderly relative or cheering on your favorite team in the living room.
At Gateway of Forney, Texas, we believe that nothing is more important than family. Our planned community is designed by master developers who understand that your neighborhood can affect everything about how your family lives. So, settle into a great home this holiday season. Check out our available homes, or contact us to learn more.
