Your Ultimate Thanksgiving Prep List
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather with family and friends, share gratitude, and of course, eat. But to ensure a stress-free special time, it’s important to stay organized and plan ahead. That’s why we put together the ultimate prep list so you can spend more time enjoying the day and less time cramped in the kitchen. Read on for your ultimate Thanksgiving prep list:
48 Hours Before Thanksgiving
Finalize your menu
It might sound silly but taking a few minutes to write out your turkey day menu can be a huge time saver. Make sure you have a variety of options and include any dishes that your guests may be bringing so you avoid doubling up.
Go grocery shopping
Once your menu is locked and loaded, it’s time to hit the stores. Be sure to include must-stop shops at Westshore Town Centre like Bulk Barn, Cobs, and Signature BC Liquor Store to round out your list. Just make sure to double check your shopping list to nothing is forgotten.
Clean the fridge
Thanksgiving dinner can mean lots of leftovers. Take a few minutes to clean out the fridge and make extra room to avoid a turkey day tetris battle with your reusable containers.
Thaw the turkey
If your turkey is frozen, now is the time to start the thawing process. It takes approximately 24 hours for every 5lbs of turkey so be sure to give yourself ample time.
Set the table
It might seem like it’s too soon, but setting the table several days before the big dinner can be a huge time saver. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to add extra seasonal décor like a plaid tablecloth or showy centerpiece.
24 Hours Before Thanksgiving
Bake pies and desserts
If you’re baking from scratch, start now. Baking your pies and desserts a day early ensures that they have time to cool and sets you up for less kitchen chaos. Apple pie, pumpkin pie, and even some cheesecakes hold up well when baked in advance. If you’re looking for apple recipe inspo, check out our apple post here: Apple Recipes for Fall.
Prepare veggies
Some veggies can be peeled and diced ahead of time and stored in the fridge, ready and waiting for the big day.
Brine the turkey
If you plan on brining your turkey (which is a great way to ensure you have a delicious and juicy turkey), this is the time to submerge it in the brine and leave it in the fridge overnight.
Thanksgiving Day
Cook the turkey
The star of the show, your turkey, should go in the oven early depending on its size. Generally, plan for 15-20 minutes per pound at 325°F. Don’t forget to let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
Chill the drinks
Once the turkey is in the oven, pop your drinks in the fridge to thoroughly chill before dinnertime. It’s also a good time to refill your ice trays, too.
Final table touches
Light candles, set out serving dishes, and give your table a once over to make sure everything is in its place for when the feast is ready to serve.
Whether you’re hosting a huge crowd or having a quaint and quiet celebration, we wish you a Happy Thanksgiving full of delicious dining and many memories.
Are you celebrating Friendsgiving this year? Visit this past blog post for our tips on how to make is a successful—and delicious—evening: The One With Friendsgiving
From casual dining to holiday essentials, from play to going away, Westshore Town Centre offers something for the entire (read: busy!) family. Situated in the City of Langford, Westshore Town Centre’s convenient location, along with numerous retailers, such as Bulk Barn, Winners/Homesense, and Dollarama allows for the quick and easy completion of one’s daily “to do” list, including getting your new furry friend settled at home. We’ve got you covered. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on everything WTC-related!