by Susan E. Carr

Created on: November 10, 2009

Thanksgiving seems to bring to mind not only quantities of food, but people as well. If your guest list includes only two people, you can still cook the same food using lesser amounts, or take this opportunity to create a "special" non-traditional menu. By using your best china, silverware and glass wear, and decorating your table for two with a lovely centerpiece your dinner will be very special indeed.

It may not be practical to purchase a turkey, although it is possible to purchase one that is smaller in size. Another good option is to use turkey breast. Many people prefer the white meat of the breast and by choosing this you will have little waste, the same menu, and of course the aroma of fresh roasting turkey. There are a number of ways to add flavour to the breast perhaps with a honey garlic glaze or simply brush with a good vegetable oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper and herbs of choice such as Rosemary and garlic. Seal the meat in aluminium foil and bake for approximately 2 hours. Traditional stuffing can be included or you can simplify the process by using a packaged stuffing mix and if you like add chopped apple and pecans.

Other suggestions for the main course are roasted chicken or stuffed Cornish game hens. Both are delectable entrees and take very little time or preparation. Cornish game hens cleaned and stuffed with wild rice are a rich and pleasing entre for most palates and as well look regal when positioned on the plate with vegetables of color.

Cooking vegetables for two to accompany your main course is not much different from cooking for a crowd, except of course you will prepare less. You can bake two sweet potatoes in their jackets and serve with brown sugar and butter. Or make mashed potatoes and whip with butter and cream, but instead of a whole bag, make less. Boiled red potatoes in their jackets add color and you can make just a few for each person. Top with butter and parsley. Green beans steamed and then sauted in garlic and butter and topped with a few sprinkled almonds are very easy to prepare and look lovely on the plate, and of course, have wonderful taste. Add a few steamed carrots for color. Brown pan gravy can be made in the traditional way with pan drippings but perhaps with the addition of some chicken broth (turkey breast is drier and therefore there may not be as much liquid left in the pan as with a whole turkey). Make fresh cranberry sauce but reduce the quantity prepared.

Add a fresh salad of choice, or a complementary salad for this meal may include the addition of pecans, cranberries and goat cheese accompanied with a lovely orange dressing.

Deserts can be single serving rather than a large pie or cake. Pumpkin or pecan tarts with a dollop of whipped cream are the perfect ending to this memmorable Thanksgiving meal for two.

Reference:

www.thekitchen.com

Learn more about this author, Susan E. Carr.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.