Bet On Dinner

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday, and Thanksgiving dinner is probably my favorite meal of the year. And I love eating the leftovers again on Friday, and even the next day. And I always appreciate recipes that help you use up your leftovers in creative ways, but at some point, I’m just done with turkey/potatoes/gravy and I’m ready for something Other. Here are a few ideas to help you break free from turkey tyranny!

1.// Eat anything with RED SAUCE.

I highly recommend Nana’s spaghetti sauce. I’m also very intrigued by this garlic basil chicken with tomato butter sauce from Pinch of Yum. Also, for something so quick (faster than fast food, some would say), you can’t go wrong with spaghettios! Or perhaps the king of the red sauce category: takeout pizza.

2.// Bring on some ASIAN FLAVORS.

I like this beef and broccoli stir fry from Cookin’ Canuck via the Skinnytaste cookbook. Broccoli rabe peanut soba noodles by Cookie and Kate sound amazing, too! Or something super light, like these lettuce wraps from the Pioneer Woman, would be nice post-Thanksgiving. But also: takeout. If you’re in Wilmington, we love Southern Thai!

3.// Say yes to MEXICAN FOOD.

Carnitas, perhaps served in a heaped-with-wonder burrito bowl, are a nice departure from turkey leftovers, as are bean burritos or baked burritos…especially if you have any of the above in your freezer, you lucky person, you! I also love this taco filling from Mel’s Kitchen Cafe. Or or or: takeout. And please get something that involves queso, because just because we’re a little over gravy does not mean we’re over smothering our food with delicious substances.

4.// BBQ SAUCE is your friend.

This crockpot bbq beef makes a lovely, lovely sandwich. But let’s cut to the chase: a lot of bbq restaurants sell pulled pork or brisket or other smoky deliciousness by the pound, so: takeout. If you’re local: Charlie Grainger’s brisket sandwich. Please don’t even consider getting a hot dog there. That is all.

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I’m thankful for a lot of things, one of which is that YOU are reading this post…and that you probably share my love for takeout.