CALYPTE COLLECTION: Thanksgiving Day Menu

Autumn is one of my favorite times of year. I love the cold and colors and the FOOD! Things that make autumn my kind of season are the earthy spices, like clove and cinnamon, hearty veggies like acorn squash and butternut. All the warm colors, reds and orange. It's no surprise to my friends and fam that I like food. It was a huge surprise to me a few years ago when I learned that I am dairy and gluten intolerant. Rain on my parade. Actually it's a blessing in disguise, I've learned (still learning) about REAL food, how to eat healthy, free of chemicals and boxes and enjoy nutrition. Not that I'm always perfect because I do get lazy.

Here is a Thanksgiving menu that I have created mostly based on this wonderful gluten free blog, Tasty Yummies. Be sure to check it out there are so many great recipe ideas! Click on the photos to view the fabulous blogs were you will find the recipes.

DRINKS

Spiked Apple Cider

http://www.runningtothekitchen.com/2012/11/simply-spiked-cider-with-oven-baked-apple-crisps/

This looks absolutely delicious! Embodies all the things I love about autumn. Yum!

Pumpkin Blinis

http://www.againstallgrain.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/pumpkinblinis6.jpg

This recipe calls for Parmesan cheese. Since I'm dairy free I'll be trying either nutritional yeast or non-dairy parm from my health food store. I love nutritional yeast I use it on popcorn and many other dishes!

BREADS

Multi-grain Rolls

http://glutenfreegirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/5381798476_d4f45db25d_z.jpg

These look like something to curl up to a warm fire with a brick of butter (dairy free of course).

SALADS

Acorn Squash Salad

Roasted Winter Squash Salad with Goat Cheese gourmandeinthekitchen.com Roasted Winter Squash Salad with Goat Cheese and Pine Nuts

I've actually made these twice in one week already. So easy and so good. I used red palm oil instead of olive oil and it was delicious. Goat cheese is my weakness so I splurged and then suffered.

VEGETARIAN MAINS

Butternut Squash Risotto

I've got a vegetarian/risotto fanatic in my life so this recipe is perfect!!

Vegetable Pot Pie

The epitome of autumn. Warm veggies, crusty goodness. Yes please!!

MEATY MAINS

Organic Roasted Turkey with Sage Butter

Photo and recipe adapted from this recipe here

I've never cooked a turkey with vegan butter but I would try Earth Balance vegan butter.

SIDES

Mashed Potatoes