Thanksgiving Recipes, Sides and Leftover Ideas

Thanksgiving, the annual American holiday centered on gratitude and communal feasts, arrives this week, drawing families and friends together for turkey-laden dinners across the country. Traditionally marked by roasted turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, the celebration often extends into creative uses for leftovers and innovative pairings to enhance the meal.

For many, the turkey remains the centerpiece, but smaller gatherings are increasingly opting for alternatives like roast chicken brined in apple cider, herbs, and orange peel. This method, which takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes in a 400-degree Fahrenheit oven, yields juicy meat and crispy skin while resting on a bed of caramelized vegetables such as acorn squash, carrots, and parsnips. The pan juices can quickly transform into gravy, providing a simpler yet flavorful option that avoids excess leftovers. Experts recommend checking the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thigh for safety, and brining for several hours enhances moisture and infuses seasonal notes.

Sides play an equally vital role, balancing the richness of the main course. Classic choices include creamy mashed potatoes made with Yukon...