Let’s Talk Thanksgiving: Why It’s Time to Rethink the Turkey 🦃

+ 4 recipes for your Thanksgiving Feast!

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Pumpkins and fall flowers

Thanksgiving has long been synonymous with turkey, and I’ll admit—I do love a good turkey! It’s been the star of the show at my family gatherings for years. But let’s face it: preparing a turkey is no small feat. It’s a commitment that often comes with more stress than joy.

First, you need to find just the right bird. Is it the right size for your group? Does it even fit in your oven? Trust me, I’ve had moments of panic realizing my turkey was just a bit too ambitious for my Italian-sized oven!

In the U.S., many swear by trusted brands like Butterball, known for tender, “easy-to-cook” turkeys. But here in Italy, where Thanksgiving isn’t a thing, finding a turkey takes a little more effort. You’re usually working with fresh turkeys—which I’ve come to love—but they’re not without their challenges. Female turkeys tend to be too small, while male turkeys can be enormous. Either way, they require careful preparation, and honestly, sometimes it feels like a marathon.

This week, I had a fascinating conversation with two incredible lifelong vegans who’ve completely reframed the way I think about Thanksgiving. Their approach? Take the focus off the turkey and make the holiday about what really matters: gathering with loved ones, sharing gratitude, and creating a feast of dishes that everyone can enjoy.