Planning a Friendsgiving gathering and not sure what to cook? Don’t fret! La Española is here to guide you through the perfect Friendsgiving spread. From traditional turkey to creative side dishes with olive oil, we’ve got plenty of recipes to inspire you. And, if you’re new to the concept, we’ll delve into the origins of the trend, too, exploring what it means and how best to host a Friendsgiving gathering.
Easy Traditional Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe
Got ambitions to one day become the head chef at your family’s Thanksgiving celebration? Why don’t you use this Friendsgiving season as an opportunity to try your hand at a traditional feast? This Thanksgiving Turkey with Roasted Apples recipe is simple and easy to follow, perfect for anyone looking to dip their toes in this challenging meal. What’s more, by basting the turkey in La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil, you’re adding a gourmet dimension to this seasonal staple. Serve it to guests at your Friendsgiving feast, and you’ll soon be ready for the main event in years to come.
Holiday Season Sides for Friendsgiving
The classics are classics for a reason, and no Friendsgiving would be complete without dishes like this Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Bacon recipe and our irresistible Sauteed Green Beans. Both exquisitely earthy in flavor, they feature ingredients synonymous with the season, bringing comfort, flavor, and tradition in every bite.
Crowdpleasing Dishes to Share
Friendsgiving gatherings often take on an informal atmosphere; that’s why it’s good to prepare dishes that are easy to share and pass around. Anyone who’s been to Spain will no doubt have seen how important a role their beloved tortilla de patata plays at mealtimes. With this Rustic Spanish Omelet recipe, you can recreate this unique atmosphere in just 30 minutes. Slice it up into wedges and serve it with cocktail sticks for a gourmet touch.
Likewise, having a dazzling salad option to share is a must, and that’s where our scintillating Griddled Lemon with Rosemary Chicken and Butterbean Salad is the ideal choice. Combining the choicest herbs and spices, tomatoes, French beans, butterbeans, and chicken, its flavors really come to the fore when you add our Extra Virgin Olive Oil to the mix. Don’t be surprised if this salad is the surprise hit at your Friendsgiving gathering.
Chef’s Tip: Always provide fresh bread on the side when serving salads. And if you really want to impress, try your hand at this Braided Pesto Bread. This rich and flavorful bake will truly elevate any salad.
Seafood Main
During the festive season, meals tend to be centered around meat, so Friendsgiving is the perfect opportunity to shake things up a little. How? By making these Tuna Steaks with White Beans and Salsa Verde. Made with a mouthwatering medley of cherry tomatoes, beans, olives, anchovies, and capers, not to mention a host of herbs and spices, this gourmet seafood dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
End Friendsgiving on A Sweet Note
What better way to cap things off than with a sweet and seasonal dessert? This Traditional Pecan Pie is the perfect way to round off your celebration. Using La Española Classic Olive Oil as a substitute for butter, it’s also a healthier way to enjoy this classic American dessert.
Quick tips for a successful Friendsgiving:
Hosting a Friendsgiving celebration is all about creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home. Here are some fun ways you can elevate the experience for everyone in attendance.
- Plan the menu early: Coordinate dishes to avoid duplicates and ensure dietary needs are covered.
- Set up a serving station: Make self-serve food and drinks easy to access.
- Create a cozy vibe: Use soft lighting, blankets, and background music.
- Offer a signature drink: A spiced cider or cranberry cocktail adds a festive touch.
- Add a gratitude moment: Have everyone share what they’re thankful for.
- Set up a photo spot: Capture memories with simple props or a fall-themed backdrop.
Celebrate Friendship, Flavor, and Gratitude
Friendsgiving is all about expressing gratitude for the blessings life has bestowed upon us. Few blessings bring us more joy than the friends we’ve chosen to share our lives with. So make with La Española olive oil, bringing rich, authentic flavor to your menu, you’re sure to create a feast that’s both delicious and memorable. Gather your favorite people together, cook with love, and let this Friendsgiving be a celebration of friendship, flavor, and the joy of sharing.
For more recipe inspiration and culinary tips, check out our blog.
Friendsgiving FAQs
What Is Friendsgiving?
Friendsgiving puts a modern twist on traditional Thanksgiving celebrations. The precise origins of the concept are unknown, although records suggest the term became popular sometime in the late 2000s. All in all, Friendsgiving is about creating your own traditions, enjoying favorite dishes, and celebrating the family you choose.
When is friendsgiving?
It’s usually held in the weeks leading up to or just after Thanksgiving, and is a relaxed, potluck-style meal that focuses less on tradition and more on togetherness.
What do people eat at friendsgiving?
This depends on the nature of the gathering. Many people like to organize Friendsgiving along similar lines to potluck parties, with each person attending responsible for providing a dish. Some may bring Thanksgiving leftovers, cutting down on food waste over the holiday season. Alternatively, Friendsgiving is an opportunity for the foodies among you to show off your cooking chops. Whatever way you choose to celebrate, we’ve got a plethora of mouthwatering recipes to inspire you, all with one star ingredient, olive oil.