The turkey can drip while it is defrosting, so put it on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator and cover it with a sheet of paper towels or a small tray to catch drips. This will also help keep the refrigerator clean. Other preparations include making a final grocery run and picking up fresh vegetables (celery is a good example) and other items.
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Make a list
Thanksgiving prep is a time to be organized. That means making a list of everything you must remember. Lists can include food items, seating arrangements, and even grocery lists.
It is helpful to have a timeline, so you know when everything is due. This way, you can make changes as the day approaches.
Make a list of tasks you must complete each day before Thanksgiving. Listed tasks may include double-checking supplies, scrubbing table linens, checking the pantry, looking in the liquor cabinet, and preparing food for your guests.
Make sure to prioritize the dinner as the most important. Also, buy perishable items a day or two in advance.
Buy non-perishables
Buying non-perishables is a great way to prepare your Thanksgiving menu and avoid last-minute grocery trips.
These items range from spices, canned goods, and paper goods to baking staples. You should purchase these items early in the month, before the holiday rush.
To make shopping more convenient, list what you will need for the meal. Also, take stock of the items you already have.
Certain meats and vegetables can be stored for a week or more. You can buy these items at a discount to save time and avoid last-minute shopping.
Prepare side dishes
Preparing Thanksgiving side dishes ahead of time can make the holiday a breeze. They will be ready to go on Thanksgiving morning, saving you time and stress on the day of the meal. You can make them ahead of time and store them in the freezer, reducing the need to buy them on Thanksgiving day.
Roasted vegetables are an excellent choice for Thanksgiving side dishes. They are flavorful and easy to prepare. Roasted vegetables caramelize on the outside and add a lovely, rich flavor to your beige table. You can also try roasted carrots, which are savory and sweet.
Pack leftovers
Thanksgiving is a great time to pack leftovers. You can make delicious dishes all weekend long using the leftovers. But make sure to pack everything as soon as possible after dinner.
Otherwise, you could find yourself with a lot of leftovers. To make this process easier, consider the following tips. – Pack leftovers within two hours after dinner.
– Pack leftovers in airtight containers to prevent bacteria from growing. You can refrigerate food for up to four days. The shelf life of leftovers depends on the type of food and the container.
You should pack hot foods separately and refrigerate cold foods first. Avoid stacking hot containers or filling them in dishes used for cooking.
Make sure to pack the leftovers into several containers. When you pack up your Thanksgiving dinner, remember to refrigerate it as soon as possible.
It is essential to avoid opening and closing the refrigerator door repeatedly.
Avoid allergens
Food allergies are expected during the holiday season, but they don’t have to prevent you from celebrating the holiday.
If you have any food allergies, let your host know early on, so they can prepare for your needs. Knowing how to avoid allergens can make your Thanksgiving dinner a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Make sure to avoid cross-contamination by choosing safe dishes and cooking utensils. Then, wipe down countertops, cooking utensils, and other surfaces that might harbor allergens.
Plan ahead
Thanksgiving can be a hectic time to travel so if you’re flying into town to celebrate Thanksgiving with your family and friends, be sure to read these travel tips that airlines don’t want you to know in order to avoid the hassles of traveling during the holidays.
One of the essential Thanksgiving preparations you must remember is to shop well ahead of time. While the actual day is the most important, it is also essential to stock up on beverages and non-perishables. To ensure you get all the items, you should purchase these items at least two to three days in advance.
Whether you plan to cook the entire meal yourself or get help from others, you must keep a list of everything. Include the food you plan to make, your guests, the seating arrangements, and any grocery lists you need to make.