When you think about Thanksgiving the first thing that comes to most people's minds is food. It's a perfectly natural response in light of the fact that the first Thanksgiving was actually in celebration of a good harvest.

I've been single most of my life and have not had the opportunity to do much entertaining so you can describe me as a "no-frills, short-cut cook". But that hasn't stopped me from making a small turkey for myself. I'm tempted this year because I can get a free turkey, but for some reason I've been dragging my feet and not sure I want to make a mess. What I can tell you is what I do know about planning your holiday meal including how to save money.

1. Plan your menu at least 4-6 weeks ahead of time so you'll know what you need to buy or what to arrange with others to bring.

2. Keep your holiday dinner "simple". There's no need to go overboard on food.

3. If you're having company, plan ahead so that each family can bring something for the meal, i.e. one person can bring a side dish, a second family the dessert, etc.

4. Limit the number of side dishes; 2 or 3 will be just fine.

5. Keep your recipes simple; there's no need to cook "gourmet". There's no need to have to spend hours or days in the kitchen.

6. There's nothing that will add to the spirit of the day as a beautifully set table; i.e. a holiday tablecloth and an inexpensive, diy centerpiece (pinterest has plenty of ideas) will work just great.

While I'm still trying to make up my mind about making my own turkey this year, I posted two videos below; one on how to cook a turkey in an oven bag and the other on how to carve one when it's done.

Wishing you and your family a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

How to Cook a Turkey in an Oven Bag

How to Carve a Turkey

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