Celebrate NOW!

I love a good American Thanks Giving dinner. My family always has butternut squash and potatoes. There are plenty of variations on green beans, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts that might be enjoyed. My favorite side is the stuffing (also known as dressing or bread sauce depending on where you are from). For decades of my life I waited for that magical November Thursday when we got to eat it. Finally, after an embarrassingly long time, I realized that I am an adult and I can have stuffing whenever I darn well want to! Here is how I serve stuffing on the other 364 days.

I like a good measure of onion and celery in my stuffing. I chop it fine. The back of the stuffing mix box has measurements listed, but I just follow my heart. I sauté the chopped veggies with butter. Sometimes I add fresh herbs. Tonight it was cold outside and I didn’t want to venture into the garden to pick any. Then I add the stuffing mix (I won’t give away my favorite brand, but if you heard it, it might ring a Bell) and the prescribed amount of water.

Tonight, I used skinless, boneless chicken thighs for the protein portion. Chicken breast, turkey cutlets or tenderloins, pork loin, even sliced extra-firm tofu would work. Use the protein you have. I topped the thighs with the stuffing and popped it into the oven, pre-heated to 350F until the chicken hits 167F. It took about 45 minutes.

Just look at that celebration-worthy casserole! Just the smell brings back happy memories.

Tonight, this was served with sautéed asparagus. You can add on any sides you like.

We are heading into a season packed with celebrations. We all have favorite foods that go with our cultures’ holidays and festivals. Why restrict a beloved dish to one day each year? Try making a holiday dish on a random day. I’ll bet it will bring you joy!