Welcome to November!

The air is growing cool and crisp this November, and the excitement around making preparations for Thanksgiving is everywhere! Are you ready?

Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays in November.

I get to enjoy having all my children under the same roof. Together, we enjoy watching movies, going for autumn hikes, and, of course, cooking! Spending time with my family makes my heart jump for joy!

I sincerely hope that each of you can delight in the season as much as I do. I’ll dedicate this November to sharing some of my all-time favorite Thanksgiving recipes with you. Not only are these delicious recipes additions to any holiday table, but they are also quick and easy to make.

I also want to share a few tips for making the holiday as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Here’s what I do:

• Prep ahead – Baking takes up most of my time, so I prefer to make the dough ahead of time. The dough can be frozen and thawed out the day before baking (for me, that’s two days before Thanksgiving). 
• Keep appetizers to a minimum – It can be tempting to dazzle your guests with lots of appetizers, but you don’t want to overdo it. I like to stick with just one amazing appetizer like crab cakes or shrimp cocktails so that your loved ones have something delicious to savor while saving room for the main meal. You might also consider having one or two appetizers for grazing, like hummus and pita chips or a small cheese board.
• Make lists – With so much going on, it’s easy to overlook details or forget things. I suggest keeping lists! I write out lists of what foods to have on hand for each day my family visits, for the Thanksgiving meal, for planned activities, and more! 
• Consider a potluck – If the idea of preparing the entire Thanksgiving meal is too overwhelming, host a potluck where each guest brings one dish, and you stick to the turkey and pie! 

Can’t wait until Turkey Day? I’m right there with you! To tide you over, here are some of my favorite recipes for you to try between now and Thanksgiving this November.

4 Amazing Recipes to Try this November

Farro and butternut squash 

The subtle nutty flavor and soothing texture of farro paired with the classic autumn flavor of butternut squash come together to create a delightful, hearty recipe that works as a side dish or main course. 

Sweet potato stuffed with chickpeas and pomegranate seeds. 

Sweet potato is a seasonal delight and gets taken to a new level by adding chickpeas and coarse walnuts. The pomegranate seeds in this recipe offer a unique alternative to the Thanksgiving classic of cranberries. 

Best pumpkin bundt cake 

You’ve had pumpkin pie and tried pumpkin muffins, but have you tasted my incredible pumpkin bundt cake? This sweet masterpiece can be served for breakfast, dessert, or anytime! The delicious warm Fall seasonings pair perfectly with a moist, delicious cake. 

Lentil soup with kale and sweet potatoes 

‘Tis the season for soup! This vegan kale soup warms the soul with hints of lemon zest and hearty sweet potatoes. Cozy with a warm and light lentil soup to prepare for the cold weather.

Let’s hope to have blessings for an abundant Thanksgiving season!

Your Friend,

Rana