Often referred to as the best meal of the year, Thanksgiving dinner serves up a sweet and savory spectrum of tastes. Talk about the holiday with our Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers, and you’ll likely hear stories of family gatherings, friendly visits – and yes, glorious tablescapes of food!

So, we decided to dig into some of our favorite flavors of Turkey Day, specifically those nostalgic recipes so dear to us here in the Heartland. Let’s get eating!

Green Bean Casserole

Does any Thanksgiving dish have a higher approval rating than casseroles? A melting pot of goodness, casseroles mix simple ingredients to create a delicious side. Our favorite? That of the green bean variety!

The Heartland has been plating up this rich side since the ‘30s. However, the green bean casserole really gained popularity in 1955 when Campbell’s Soup introduced a recipe for this modern Thanksgiving staple. The nice thing about this delicious take on veggies? It can literally be thrown together and placed in the oven almost as an afterthought, though no one sees it that way once it hits the table!

Jell-O

Jell-O has made its way as a common ingredient into many Heartland Thanksgiving treats. However, it’s probably best known for its use in whipped salads! There are all types of flavorful versions to this sweet concoction, but the basic recipe calls for whipped cream, fruit (like maraschino cherries), and of course Jell-O. Depending on the home, this must-have dish can be served up with the main meal’s savory sides, or it can wind up on the dessert table for a lighter option!

Family Makes Everything Taste Better

Traditions play a huge role in our holiday routines, and food enhances those special days. Regardless of what’s on the table at Thanksgiving, the main course is always better when shared with loved ones.

At Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care service, we value our care receivers and the moments they create with family during the holiday season. We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and hope the day fulfills you with spectacular dishes, memories and companionship.