5 make-ahead Thanksgiving recipes

Real Simple Magazine



Beatriz da Costa
Beatriz da Costa

Get ahead of the kitchen chaos with great recipes with make-ahead cooking tips.

Whether you are preparing every course from scratch or hosting a laid-back Thanksgiving potluck, make-ahead recipes are key. Many dishes can be prepared at least a day in advance and simply reheated right before serving. From Thanksgiving hors d'oeuvres to traditional side dishes to easy holiday desserts, aim to have everything done by the time you start preparing our simple turkey recipe.

Rosemary Pecans

Make-ahead tip: The pecans can be prepared and stored at room temperature in an airtight container up to 1 week in advance.

Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups pecan halves
2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary

Directions

  1. Heat oven to 375° F. Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, cayenne pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt. Add the pecans and toss to coat.

  2. Transfer the pecans to a rimmed baking sheet and arrange in a single layer. Bake, stirring occasionally, until toasted, 10 to 12 minutes.

  3. Add the rosemary and toss to combine. Serve warm or at room temperature.

See More: 4 Easy Thanksgiving Place Cards

Dana Gallagher
Dana Gallagher

Goat Cheese Spread



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Make-ahead tip: The spread can be prepared and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance.

See More: Your Fastest, Easiest Thanksgiving Ever

Beatriz da Costa
Beatriz da Costa









Cannellini Bean, Scallion, and Prosciutto Dip



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Make-ahead tip: The dip can be prepared and refrigerated (without the garlic) up to 1 day in advance; add the garlic just before serving.

See More: Thanksgiving Essentials

Marcus Nilsson
Marcus Nilsson









Tender Greens with Champagne Vinaigrette



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Make-ahead tip: The lettuce, herbs, and vinaigrette can be prepared and refrigerated, separately, up to 1 day in advance. Dress and toss the salad just before serving.

See More: How to Choose the Right Thanksgiving Turkey

Maura McEvoy
Maura McEvoy








Lettuce, Orange, and Pecan Salad



Get the recipe.

Make-ahead tip: The lettuce, oranges, shallots, pecans, and vinaigrette can be prepared and refrigerated, separately, up to 1 day in advance. Dress and toss the salad just before serving.

See More: 19 More Make-Ahead Recipes








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