Thanksgiving looks very different this year. Instead of the large family gathering we usually have — last year I hosted 20 people — this year it will be just the four of us. While I will miss my extended family and feel the sadness of a smaller celebration, I’m trying to be grateful and embrace a cozier holiday. Below I share what we’re making and a few tips for anyone planning their first gluten-free Thanksgiving.
Background
Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. In our family it’s traditionally a relaxed, lively day: people arrive early, cook together, nibble on appetizers, and enjoy a long meal. Over the years our gathering has included a core group — my parents, my brother’s family, my aunt and uncle, cousins — plus an ever-changing list of friends and relatives. My mom always welcomed newcomers by asking their favorite dish and adding it to the table, so our spread slowly collected cherished family favorites.
We usually prepare many dishes ahead of time, and on the day itself the kitchen becomes a hub of activity with multiple cooks working together. Last year was the first time we hosted and we loved it — twenty people and a full house made for a memorable day.
Thanksgiving 2020
This year feels especially different. In addition to the pandemic-related changes that have reduced our guest list, we’re also carrying the sadness of losing a beloved uncle who was always a big part of the holiday. That loss has made me extra grateful for the health and presence of my immediate family, and for the time I get to spend with my teenage sons, who might otherwise be off with friends.
Because it’s just the four of us, we’re planning a smaller, cozier Thanksgiving that still feels special. I’ve put together a menu with all our favorites and will prepare smaller portions than we would for a crowd, though there will still be leftovers to enjoy over the weekend.
Because it’s just us, it will be 100% gluten-free!
Many traditional Thanksgiving dishes are naturally gluten-free, and over the years our family has adapted recipes and taken care to prevent cross-contamination so most items on our table have become safe for those avoiding gluten. Historically my mom used to stuff the turkey, which made the roast not gluten-free, so we often prepared an additional roast chicken. Last year we fried a turkey and made everything gluten-free, and it turned out amazing. This year, with only family at our table, we’ll make stuffing that is gluten-free too, so the entire meal will be safe for everyone.
Menu
Appetizers (we’re treating lunch as a series of appetizers)
Cheeseboard (smaller than usual)
Gluten-Free crab quiche (a favorite tradition my son looks forward to)
Clams Oreganta dip (I’ll prepare it a day ahead and bake on Thursday)
Spinach artichoke dip (also made a day ahead and baked on the day)
We will skip pumpkin bisque this year since we’ve enjoyed it recently and want to streamline the menu.
Dinner
Roast chicken (we’re skipping the turkey this year — last year’s fried turkey was a hit, but it’s a lot of work for a small group)
Mashed potatoes (made the day of)
Sweet potato casserole with pecan crumble (prepared ahead and reheated or finished on the day)
The best gluten-free stuffing (partly made in advance and finished the day of)
Cranberry sauce (already made and frozen — thaws well)
Peas (my husband’s favorite) and/or roasted Brussels sprouts
Salad — likely radicchio and arugula with dried figs and walnuts
Gluten-free dinner rolls
Quick breads to enjoy over the weekend: cranberry bread and possibly pumpkin bread
Desserts
We’re skipping pies this year because we recently enjoyed a pumpkin pie, but we will still have several treats: pumpkin sheet cake with cream cheese frosting, pecan bars in place of a traditional pecan pie, and a classic apple crisp. These are easy to portion for a smaller group and still feel festive.
Tips for a smaller Thanksgiving
- Focus on what your family loves rather than following expectations. If your family doesn’t care for turkey, choose something else.
- Make full recipes if you enjoy leftovers, or halve recipes to suit a small group.
- Keep the menu simple when possible. We decided on more dishes because everyone has favorites, but trimming the list is a great way to reduce stress.
- Plan ahead and prepare dishes in advance so the day itself is relaxed and enjoyable.
Share your plans in the comments: What are your Thanksgiving traditions this year? How do you keep your holiday gluten-free?