There’s nothing I love more than an opportunity to set a beautiful table, host a delicious meal and enjoy some quality time with my family. So, naturally, I get very excited every year when Thanksgiving Sunday comes around!
Pulling out my seasonal linens, favourite vintage equestrian plates and chargers, smoky glassware, and gathering all the little elements that make a table feel special is an actual love language of mine. So I go shopping in my Martha Room and pull out whatever the moment calls for! I love believing we eat with our eyes first, and so I make sure every detail feels thoughtfully put together before the feast begins.
I start imagining the menu days ahead, and it changes every year. I’ve done everything from butternut squash lasagna and mac and cheese stuffed into pumpkins to more traditional mashed potatoes, string beans and a vegetarian alternative to turkey. Even pumpkin fondue has made an appearance!
Whatever ends up on the menu, I always lean into seasonal ingredients, keeping a little tradition while making it our own. And I try to prep as much as possible beforehand, because a clean kitchen, something delicious in the oven and a little time to myself before hosting duties begin? Yes, please.
This year’s menu: classic stuffing turned into crispy little bites, a warm autumn harvest salad, French onion pasta, and homemade cinnamon rolls for dessert, frosted and served by my son.
The best part of the feast, IMO? The leftovers. Obviously.
And because no gathering is complete without a little atmosphere, Ina Garten’s Fall Dinner Party playlist played in the background. Think old-school classics, a little jazz and exactly the kind of cozy ambiance that makes you want to linger at the table just a little longer and enjoy a second glass of red wine.
The French onion pasta, the wine, the music, the beautiful table… I think Ina would approve. And Jeffrey would probably be delighted, just as my family was!
Thankful for another lovely Sunday.
