Thanksgiving is fast approaching (I know we can’t believe it either) and while this year is likely to look much different for many families, there’s no reason why your menu can’t still be absolutely top notch.
While Thanksgiving brings with it lots of traditional recipes from generations past, we always recommend getting a little creative with your dishes. Here are some great ways that you can add in high quality olive oils and balsamic vinegars that will definitely impress family and friends.
Start with the Appetizers
If you’re the type of host that likes to extend the meal by offering appetizers before the meal that can be a great opportunity to utilize your favorite oil or vinegar. From crostini to caprese salads there are lots of delicious options.
Use It on the Turkey
I’m sure everyone has heard that age old saying “but turkey is so dry.” Well not to fear, you can work to eliminate this by basting, rubbing, or even injecting delicious sauces onto the turkey throughout the cooking process. While most people might think to use butter, substituting with a high quality extra virgin olive oil is a healthier (and tastier) alternative. You can use a traditional olive oil or select from a number of fused or infused oils instead. We suggest trying our butter, rosemary, or lemon olive oils for you to try out this holiday season. Shop for our oils here.
Spice Up the Cranberry Sauce
Using a balsamic vinegar in your cranberry sauce can provide a nice balance to the tartness of the berries. For this type of use we definitely suggest a white balsamic vinegar as the darker balsamic will add a different color to the beautiful, bright sauce you’re working to create.
Drizzle it on the Veggies
Extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar make a great addition to roasted and grilled vegetables at any time of the year, and Thanksgiving is a great opportunity to showcase any of your favorite recipes. From green beans to brussels sprouts you can definitely add a little extra something special to the holiday table. Looking for some inspiration? Try out these sautéed green beans or these caramelized brussels sprouts.
Make a Salad
This might seem like the most basic of all ways to incorporate olive oil or balsamic vinegar, but that doesn’t mean your salad will be boring. There are hundreds of delicious combinations that you can use to create a salad dressing that your guests will be raving about. Try out this wedge salad for a spin on a traditional favorite or this squash and corn salad for something a little bit different for your table. You can also create your own dressing or vinaigrette from scratch by pairing together any oil and vinegar from our vast selection.
Don’t Forget Dessert
Olive oil can be a great substitute in baking of any kind, and it’s an exact one-to-one swap for other oils like canola or vegetable. You can also swap it out for butter in a ratio of three parts olive oil to four parts butter.
Using olive oil, especially a high quality one will add a richness to the flavor and olive oil comes with a lot of great health benefits too. While pumpkin pie is likely to hit the table at some point, offer your family a different option with this tasty tiramisu.
Cocktails for the win
A surprising and often overlooked use for balsamic vinegars can be during cocktail hour. You might not think of it often, but balsamic vinegar can be a great natural sweetener for non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages alike. For a homemade take on seltzer water, simply pour the seltzer water over ice and stir in your favorite white balsamic vinegar. For a non-alcoholic recipe try this blueberry lemon-thyme shrub or for those guests who are old enough, you can serve this elderflower champagne.
Our entire staff at D’Olivo are experts at pairing together our oils and vinegars and we love to offer suggestion for recipes. If you’re looking for ideas stop in for a tasting and to browse our selection. We’d love to help you get exactly what you need for your upcoming holiday dinner. We’re open Monday-Saturday from 11 AM to 6 PM and Sundays from 11 AM to 4 PM.
