Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate with family, friends, and of course, food. But who says it has to be the same predictable turkey and stuffing every year? As someone who thrives on exploring flavors and pushing culinary boundaries, I believe this beloved holiday is the perfect opportunity to take your traditional Thanksgiving spread and turn up the volume. Why not surprise your guests with dishes that bring bold flavors, a little fun, and some unexpected twists to the table?

This year, let’s shake things up and give your Thanksgiving dinner a fresh twist with some of my favorite recipes that mix comforting classics with bold new flavors. Think juicy, melt-in-your-mouth meats and sides that are packed with flavor—total game-changers that’ll make your Thanksgiving spread anything but boring. Start with a Roast Duck with Orange and Ginger—an elegant alternative to turkey that’s rich and sophisticated. This dish takes the elegance of duck and pairs it with bright citrus notes and the subtle heat of ginger, making it the star of the table. Or, if a turkey is a must, why not make it unforgettable with a Pickle-Brined Turkey? This bird is tangy, juicy, and far from ordinary, adding a playful twist to your table.

If comfort food is calling your name, Braised Short Ribs with 40 Cloves of Garlic are slow-cooked until they’re melt-in-your-mouth tender, with the garlic adding a deep, rich flavor. Or, go all out with a Lobster Risotto—creamy, decadent, and luxurious, this dish brings a touch of fine dining to your Thanksgiving spread. 

If you’re looking for a standout vegetarian option, Stuffed Butternut Squash with Quinoa, Kale, Cranberries, and Chickpeas is a perfect choice. This dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with a hearty, nutrient-packed filling of quinoa, earthy kale, tart cranberries, and protein-rich chickpeas. It’s hearty, delicious, and packed with all the best fall flavors—a fresh, fun twist that’ll totally elevate your table.

Sides are where you can really have fun and elevate your meal beyond the expected. Polenta With Wild Mushroom Ragú brings a rustic yet refined touch to your spread. The creamy polenta serves as the perfect backdrop for the savory mushroom ragú, rich in umami and balanced with fresh herbs. Balance the richness of the main dishes with fresh, vibrant salads like Grapefruit & Goat Cheese Fennel Salad. It is crisp, tangy, and refreshing, offering a bright counterpoint to heavier dishes. When it comes to vegetables, Miso Roasted Carrots add an earthy, savory depth to naturally sweet carrots, making them an irresistible side that pairs beautifully with any main. And when it comes to potatoes, think outside the box with Chili Oil Smashed Potatoes—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfectly spiced with a kick. These aren’t your grandma’s potatoes; they’re bold, modern, and completely addictive.

Why stop at the savory? Complement your meal with desserts that delight. Try a Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake with a ginger snap crust for a twist on the classic pumpkin pie, or go for a Maple Pecan Tart that’s both sweet and nutty, bringing a rich, caramelized flavor to the end of your meal.

This Thanksgiving, why not switch things up and bring some fun, new flavors to the table? It’s all about enjoying the holiday with dishes that’ll wow your guests and make the meal feel new and special. And hey, if you’re swamped and don’t have time to tackle all these sides, no worries—you can just order them from Olive & Finch and take one thing off your plate (literally!). So go ahead, have some fun with it, and make this Thanksgiving a little different and a whole lot tastier!

Warmly,

Chef Mary Nguyen