In the hierarchy of Thanksgiving Day food, turkey is the star while side dishes such as stuffing or mashed potatoes play integral backup roles. Appetizers, however, are often not given the attention they deserve. They prime the palette and “set the table” for the main course. Many Thanksgiving get-togethers start early in the day with football games and television specials. Throughout the eventful day, people are going to get hungry! Don’t leave them unsatisfied. Here are our top turkey day appetizers that will put everyone in the eating mood.
Top Thanksgiving Appetizers
We know that both time and space in the kitchen is limited on Thanksgiving, so these appetizers are quick, easy and delicious.
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
Shrimp cocktail is a classic holiday appetizer, but you can take it one step further and really impress your guests. First, grab some chives and chop them into half-inch pieces. Get a package of bacon and cut the strips in half. Pan fry until cooked but not crispy. Start the broiler. Then take shelled and de-veined shrimp, place a chive piece on each and wrap them in the cooked bacon. Quickly spray with olive oil and place the wrapped shrimp onto a greased broiler pan. Crack pepper over the shrimp. Broil for two minutes on each side, or until shrimp turn pink and lose translucence. Serve and let the compliments roll in.
Slow Cooker Meatballs
For the sake of time, we recommend using frozen meatballs, but this recipe would be even more delicious if you took the time to make them yourself. First, make a sauce. Mix together a half cup of ketchup, a quarter cup of brown sugar, a third cup of white vinegar, two tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, pepper to taste and an optional tablespoon of hot sauce for those who like it spicy. Toss the meatballs, a small chopped onion, a minced clove of garlic and your prepared sauce into the slow cooker and mix. Heat on low until meatballs are heated through.
Pumpkin Dip
‘Tis the season for pumpkin spice! This pumpkin dip will be a hit with kids and adults alike. Using a handheld egg beater, beat together a package of softened cream cheese, one cup of canned pumpkin, one cup of confectioners’ sugar, a third cup of sour cream, one teaspoon of ground cinnamon, one teaspoon of pumpkin spice, a half teaspoon of ginger, and a half teaspoon of vanilla. After it is blended and smooth, serve with apples or ginger snaps.
Baked Brie
This appetizer lends a touch of class to your spread but is deceivingly simple to prepare. Mix together a half cup of dried cranberries, a half cup of dried walnuts, a quarter cup of unsweetened apple juice and three tablespoons of brown sugar. Spoon the mixture over a round of brie cheese and bake in the oven at 375 degrees for 15 minutes. Serve the sweet, gooey delight with your choice of crackers.
Craftmark Homes knows how much work goes into a Thanksgiving feast. That’s why we offer many floor plans with spacious kitchens and ample seating room. If you’re in the Washington, D.C. or Annapolis areas and are looking to buy a home, contact us today to go over your options. Happy Thanksgiving!