Every year it seems that we kill ourselves cooking for a Thanksgiving meal that lasts about half an hour. While I love having a big meal with friends and family around the table, there are 
several ways to cut down on the stress and work of Thanksgiving dinner.
1. Have everybody be responsible for a dish. My mother in law usually insists on bringing the turkey, then leaves the leftovers for us. Yay! When guests ask “What can I bring?” I am delighted to tell them. This accomplishes two things: less work for us; and includes them in the feast. Both are desirable.
2. Whole foods simply and nicely prepared beat processed and elaborate foods anytime. I discovered a recipe years ago for vegetables tossed in olive oil and garlic and herbs and roasted in the oven. It takes minutes to prepare and always gets raves. I’ve never understood the appeal for green beans drowned in cream of mushroom soup and canned onion rings anyway.
3. Forget about “perfect.” So what if there’s no centerpiece? (I always forget to create one.) Or your dishes are mismatched? (Some of mine are chipped, too.) For me, perfect is good company, plenty of food, and several bottles of wine.
For simpler recipes, check out: Real Simple, the Food Network, All Recipes, Simply Recipes, and Sunset Magazine.
