Italian-inspired Thanksgiving Recipes

Julie Jurden

Thanksgiving is traditionally an all-American holiday but many Italian-inspired dishes fit perfectly into the menu. The blend of our cultures is what makes America beautiful. If you are attending an Italian Thanksgiving or simply love all things Italian below are a few of our favorite Italian inspired dishes for Thanksgiving.

Starter: Lacy Parmesan Frico

Appetizers are a much needed item on Thanksgiving, and who doesn’t like crispy cheese? Hailing from Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of Italy is quick and flavorful setting your pallet for the main courses. Pairs perfectly with wine or a bubbly. Find the full recipe here: http://www.splendidtable.org/recipes/lacy-parmesan-frico

Soup: Butternut Squash Soup with Crisp Pancetta

Squash and pancetta are the perfect fall parings. This smooth creamy soup will make the perfect addition as a first course or appetize to your Thanksgiving feast. Find the full recipe here: http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/butternut-squash-soup-with-crisp-pancetta

Main Course: Porcini Roasted Turkey With Sausage Fennel Stuffing

This turkey is sure to be a crowd favorite and entails first rubbing the turkey with porcini mushrooms and butter and then stuffing the bird with a flavorful fennel and sausage stuffing. Find the full recipe here: http://staging.italianfoodforever.com/2008/11/porcini-roasted-turkey-with-sausage-fennel-stuffing/

Side Dish: Sautéed Spinach with Raisins and Pine Nuts

This classic Italian dish is slightly sweet with just a hint of salt. Add the buttery crunch of pine nuts, and it's a perfect side dish for your Italian menu for Thanksgiving. With all the thick hearty options on Thanksgiving this light side salad complements the table perfectly. Find the full recipe here: http://www.bhg.com/thanksgiving/menu/thanksgiving-menu-italian-thanksgiving-recipes/

Dessert: Vanilla Panna Cotta

This is one of the easiest dessert to make. It takes about four hours but the wait is worth it. Made with only three ingredients: cream, sugar and gelatin and then infused with a bit of vanilla and topped with a sweet rosemary-honey drizzle. Find the full recipe here: http://www.bhg.com/thanksgiving/menu/thanksgiving-menu-italian-thanksgiving-recipes/

Let us know if you try any of these recipes, we'd love to know what you though. We’d also love to hear your favorite Italian dishes for Thanksgiving!