What's Good

Whether you had grand plans for the holiday meal or you're flying by the seat of your chef's pants, these Thanksgiving-ready recipes might come in handy.

Stuck for sides? Nothing could be more fitting than a soup of acorns, a traditional indigenous food staple. Stuffed acorn squash is a winner and even works as a main dish for a vegetarian table. Or give the meal some color with a persimmon-spiked salad (don't worry, it's butter lettuce, not Romaine). You could add dash to your mash with a Belgian version of the beloved mashed potatoes with carrots and leeks. If you've got vegans at the table, whip up a butternut and broccoli soup everyone will love.

If you're not a fan of turkey but still want something hearty and autumnal, a lamb stew served in a pumpkin is a fine idea. Dining solo? You still deserve a little feast. Try this small-scale recipe for brined chicken thighs and be thankful you don't have to share.

Dessert is easy. Here's a vintage cream cheese pie that'll become your new family tradition. Or make the Southern soul food classic sweet potato pie — nobody will miss the pumpkin. 

And, after you've had a good nap, we'll help with the leftovers. Try whipping up a bone stock you'll use for everything or a pot of turkey congee to soothe your soul (and your tummy) after all that celebrating.