Enjoy a simple, special and stress-free Thanksgiving with our ultimate planning guide. From grocery shopping to setting the table, track all the important to-dos leading up to the big day by following this day-by-day timeline and shopping list. Before you start prepping, make a Thanksgiving Timeline & Shopping List to keep on hand. 1st Week of November Plan your menu and guest list. Contact guests and let them know what dishes (if any) they should bring. Order fresh turkey now for pick-up 1-2 days before Thanksgiving or buy frozen turkey anytime between now and 5 days before Thanksgiving. Tip: Look for sales on frozen turkey at your local grocery and wholesale stores. Choose one that’s solid with no pockets of frozen liquid. When you get home, immediately put it in the freezer. Inventory your kitchen tools to confirm you have all you need for the big day, including serving dishes. Make sure you have enough chairs, table linens, plates (dinner and dessert), glassware and flatware to accommodate your crowd. Purchase or arrange to borrow any missing items. 2nd Week of November Create a detailed shopping list by carefully reading your recipes. Tip: Stumped about what sides to serve or looking to switch things up? Try easy, make-ahead dishes like our Mashed Maple Sweet Potatoes, Irish Mashed Potatoes, and Homemade Applesauce. Go through your cabinets and take inventory so you can avoid buying duplicate ingredients. Shop for all non-perishable items. Download our Recipe Timeline to organize recipes by when they can be made. Bake cakes, pies and breads now. To store, cool them completely, then wrap securely and freeze. Tip Make a store-bought pie crust look extra special by adding your own touches, like festive leaf garnishes. 3rd Week of November Remind guests of what to bring (if anything). Tip: If family and friends are bringing dishes, think about your oven space. Let guests know if they’ll be able to re-heat dishes or if they should bring them ready to serve. Order fresh flowers and/or create non-perishable centerpieces. Thanksgiving Week Clean out your fridge to make room for Thanksgiving foods. Begin thawing frozen turkey. Iron tablecloths. Label serving platters and bowls with the names of the dishes to be served on them. 2 Days Before ***Clean your home.this is when you call Rebecca and beth at 5 Star cleaners we make your work load less 423-608-8354-423-237-4005*** Transfer cakes, quick breads and pies to the fridge for thawing. Shop for fresh items, like produce and bread. Prepare make-ahead side dishes and sauces. Tip: Put a creative twist on classic cranberry sauce with our Warm Apple Cranberry Compote with Spiced Walnuts or Cranberry Pomegranate and Meyer Lemon Relish. Day Before Assemble side dishes like stuffing and green bean casserole, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake tomorrow. Tip: Add 3-5 minutes to the bake time of pre-assembled, refrigerated dishes. Prepare butter plates, fill salt and pepper shakers and confirm you have plenty of ice. Set the table. Thanksgiving Day Cook the Turkey. Whip cream for pies. Stage coffee maker to turn on as guests are seated for dinner. Warm side dishes in oven or on stovetop. Heat bread or rolls. Toss salad or sauté greens. Make gravy. Carve the turkey. Sit back and enjoy a memorable meal with the ones you love. Is this your first Thanksgiving in your home or are you a seasoned pro? Share your tips, tricks, funny stories and more for preparing for big holiday dinners.
Posted on: Tue, 08 Oct 2013 15:09:57 +0000
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