On Thanksgiving, we ditch the diets and allow ourselves the luxury of eating anything and everything. The only question is…what’s on the dinner menu this year? In case you didn’t know, people have been opting for a non-traditional thanksgiving dinner menu. Swapping turkey with ribs, apple pie with crème brûlée or sweet potatoes for brown sugar carrots. That being said, check out a few Thanksgiving dinner alternatives to add to your shopping list.
“Life is Short, Eat Dessert First”
Don’t get me wrong. The infamous apple and pumpkin pie will always have a place on my holiday dinner table. But this year, I have a taste for a sweet new treat that still gives me the holiday vibes. Here are a few non-traditional dessert ideas if you’re thinking about taking a break from the ole’ faithful apple pie.
Pumpkin Cake
For everyone who wants to stick with the pumpkin flavor, this is a great dessert for that. It’s super easy to make and a guaranteed crowd pleaser. All you need is some pumpkin puree, yellow cake mix, and maybe throw on some pecans for a little added crunchiness.
Blueberry Bars
Blueberries are in their off season during the winter months but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy this blueberry dessert. These sweet summery bars would be a great addition to any non-traditional Thanksgiving dinner.
Coffee Ice Cream
Who says ice cream is only for summer? My grama makes this recipe almost every special occasion, but it hits different during the Holidays. It’s a refreshing take on the “cuddle up with a good book and hot cup of coffee” vibe during the holiday season.
Roll Out Sugar Cookies
Roll out sugar cookies are always a favorite. Whip up a batch and shape them to look like pumpkins and turkeys and you have yourself a dessert everyone will be sure to love.
Side Dishes and Appetizers
Almost everyone gets hungry before the meal comes out, and if your family is anything like mine, that can take quite a long time. Here are some ideas for non-traditional Thanksgiving sides and appetizers to quiet your stomach’s growl before the big meal.
Lefse
Lefse is the Norwegian tortilla, made from potatoes and topped to be sweet or savory. Perfect for a little snack before the meal.
Meatballs
These are a tradition in my family; besides the cheese plates and salads, these are a great option to keep the stomach from rumbling. Make them sweet or spicy for the perfect appetizer.
Roasted Pumpkin and Goat Cheese Crostini
Who doesn’t love baguettes? This tasty pumpkin and goat cheese combo is great for a premeal snack.
Sweet Potato Skins
Every big dinner needs a gooey cheesy option. Make some dip to go along with these sweet potato skins and it’ll be the perfect addition to a non-traditional Thanksgiving Day dinner.
Non-Traditional Drinks
We all love a nice and hot apple cider, but this Thanksgiving, lets mix it up and add some new drinks to our menu!
Iced Brown Sugar Oat Milk Espresso
This Starbucks copycat recipe is the perfect sweet treat to add to your non-traditional meal this holiday season.
Sparkling Cranberry Mocktail
This mocktail is a great non-alcoholic drink to enjoy for those who live in warmer climates and are looking for something refreshing.
Eggnog Hot Chocolate
This combination of eggnog and hot chocolate is a sweet alternative treat to the typical apple cider drink. It may be easier to open up a package for hot chocolate, but this drink will not disappoint and is super simple to make!
Chai White Hot Chocolate
I had to add this to the list because chai is one of my absolute favorite drinks, Try mixing it with hot chocolate in this recipe for a creamy, spicy option during the holiday season.
The Main Dish
On to the thing that everyone is waiting for, the main dish. Since Thanksgiving is a family-oriented holiday, many people are looking for meals that feel like home. So, here are some delicious dishes (other than turkey) that still make you feel warm and safe inside.
Chicken and Dumpling Soup
Chicken and dumplings is not the typical Thanksgiving meal, but that is exactly why it made the list. Adding a different flavor to the table with the chicken but keeping with the theme of uniqueness, chicken and dumplings is sure to be a hit for the whole family.
Beer Cheese Soup
Beer cheese soup, a soup that was commonly served for breakfast with some bread, is another great option for an alternative Thanksgiving dish. And for those who enjoy a little kick in their food, add some jalapenos for some extra flavor!
Ham
Swap out your turkey for a ham, typically served for Christmas but a great option if you still want a slightly more traditional meal on Thanksgiving Day. Make it sweet or salty and pair it perfectly with veggies and mashed potatoes!
Bacon Wrapped Pork Medallions
Bacon is always a favorite in my house, and these are the perfect option for everyone looking for turkey alternatives.
Whether you decide to stick with the traditional Thanksgiving meal or go with something non-traditional and unique, I pray your home is filled with sweet scents and laughter as this holiday season goes into full swing.
Dear my Brother and Sister. Hoping you are happy. Remember that our Lord is always watching at any time, Difficulty This is just a test. Here’s an important message for you: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/99719422