EGGPLANT - GROUND TURKEY AND KALE CASSEROLE BAKE

It's cold tonight and I was craving something comforting and warm. I've eaten so much pumpkin/butternut squash/sweet potato soup, that my skin is going to turn orange! So, I thought I would make up something warm and comforting that wasn't soup. I ate lots of eggplant when I was growing up. My mom would make eggplant patties out of it and they were delicious. So, I'm a fan of the strange purple plant...

I was in the mood for an italian seasoned casserole. I put this together using things I had in my pantry and fridge. (except for the eggplant which I bought over the weekend, not knowing what I was going to do with it)

BROCCOLI CAULIFLOWER AND MUSHROOM CASSEROLE

We had some great sides at our Thanksgiving table this year and this was one of them! I wanted to make some dishes that were non-traditional. You can see my complete menu with links to the recipes here: MENU

I have seen and probably made a few broccoli casserole that call for cream of something soup. In an effort to lighten things up a little for my family, I am trying to omit those kinds of ingredients while keeping the yummy factor intact!! This one definitely made the cut and will be making it to other family gatherings. It was delicious!

HERICOTS VERTS WITH CANNELLINI BEANS AND A SHALLOT VINAIGRETTE

I was most looking forward to adding this new dish to our Thanksgiving menu this year. It was such a hit and will definitely be making it to the table at more holiday gatherings.

I really liked that I could make this ahead and it is served cold, so one less thing on the stove or the oven when it's time to serve the food.

Everyone loved it! A great/healthy alternative to the traditional green bean casserole.


This is a beautiful salad with lots of color. You're guests will be so impressed!!

GARLIC MASHED POTATOES

Here's a recipe for creamy, delicious garlic mashed potatoes. It's got to be one of my family's favorite things. You can have these with beef, chicken or just by themselves! I always make lots so we have some for leftovers the next day. Simply delicious!

PARMESAN ROASTED ASPARAGUS

Looking for a different way to eat those veggies? Well, here's a simple way to ramp up your asparagus. I usually eat  mine steamed, but this is a treat!