A Budget-Friendly Thanksgiving Feast

Nov 8
15:45

2008

Hillary Marshak

Hillary Marshak

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Just because the economy is in a slump doesn't mean you have to skip out on your favorites this Thanksgiving! Recipe4Living has compiled a menu full of Thanksgiving recipes that all use less than 10 ingredients!

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Thanksgiving is around the corner but this year,A Budget-Friendly Thanksgiving Feast Articles we don't have as much to spend on our annual feast. But at Recipe4Living, we don't believe you should have to miss out on a turkey, cranberries, sweet potatoes and all the usual holiday favorites. That's why I've compiled a menu full of the most basic but delicious recipes that will help you save on unnecessary additions. Keep it simple but flavorful by unlocking that spice cabinet and sticking to the basics of home cooking this Thanksgiving! Enjoy!

Hillary

Your RSVP Editor

AppetizersSet the tone for your budget-friendly feast with authentic holiday ingredients like pumpkin, sweet potatoes and cranberry!

Sweet Potato SoupCranberry Appetizer MeatballsHerb Stuffed PumpkinsPumpkin DipHoney Pumpkin Salad with Sage Croutons

Main CoursesBuying the turkey will still be the obvious expense, but if you have a well-stocked spice cabinet, there aren't too many other ingredients you'll need to purchase!

Honey Spice Glazed TurkeyRosemary Roasted TurkeySavory Roasted TurkeyHerb Roasted TurkeyFlavorful Turkey Breast in the Crockpot (a contest winner!)

Side Dishes (extra bonus recipes!)Thanksgiving is all about the side dishes which is why we have expanded this category for this week's issue of RSVP. We recommend making at least a couple of these side dishes to complete your feast!Easy Cranberry SauceFive Ingredient StuffingGreen Bean and Potato CasseroleSpicy Pumpkin Side DishCinnamon Honey Sweet PotatoesGiblet Pan GravyOld Fashioned StuffingForgotten YamsCranberry ApplesChestnut Stuffing

DessertsThanksgiving doesn't have to be all about the pumpkin pie. You can keep the tradition alive but we also recommend complementing your pie with other autumn-inspired favorites!

Alice Waters' Apple TartImpossible Pumpkin PiePoached Pears with Cranberry Spice SaucePecan Pie MuffinsCranberry Biscotti

BeveragesStir up a new holiday favorite with these budget-friendly, fall-inspired recipes!

Thanksgiving PunchHot Spiced Cranberry CiderPumpkin Pie SmoothieAutumn Apple PunchChamomile Spiced Tea

Presentation Pointers:

1. For a nice and simple centerpiece, buy a few fall gourds at the grocery store and place them in a ceramic or glass bowl. Pile them high so your guests can admire them throughout the meal. An alternative: fill a vase with cranberries and put your flowers over them.

2. Dress your table with autumn colors like browns, golds, oranges and reds. Complete your look with tablecloths, plasticware and even plates in this color scheme.

3. Let your guests help you do the final assembly. Have them put side dishes into bowls and set the table while you take care of the rest.

More Like This:Your Guide to the Perfect Thanksgiving Get TogetherCountdown to Thanksgiving: Stuffing RecipesTurkeys, Cranberries and Stuffing, Oh My!: Thanksgiving Recipes and Cooking Tips

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