This thanksgiving, while you plan your celebration of thanks with all the dishes that have so much history and meaning to you, here are a few quick and easy suggestions to give a Mediterranean flavor and sparkle to the big spread.

APPETIZERS

Brandy Chicken Liver Pâté
Prep time 10 min Cook time 20 min

As far as appetizers go there is little that is as festive as a silky smooth, brandy laced chicken liver pâté. The recipe’s highlight is the rich Majdool date and pomegranate molasses paste that accompanies it. Here’s the recipe.

Sicilian Caponata
Prep time 10 min Cook time 20 min

Sicily’s sweet and sour blend of aubergines, onions, celery, capers and green olives all melded together in a tangy tomato sauce and served on crusty bread. Here’s the recipe.

SIDE DISHES

Egyptian Festive Rice
Prep Time 10 min Cook time 20 min

Diced dried apricots, roasted chestnuts and a little tomato paste give this rice dish a festive color and flavor. Here’s the recipe.

Sweet Potatoes with Spiced Pomegranate Molasses 
Prep time 10 min cook time 15 min

Here is a really festive side dish. Sweet potatoes coated with tangy  pomegranate molasses and warming nutmeg/clove/cinnamon/pepper tasting allspice. Here’s the recipe.

DESSERTS 

Fresh Oranges With Caramelized Peel

Prep time 20 min cook time 10 min
This recipe for fresh orange slices with caramelized peel is a desert with a high wow factor. The secret is in caramelizing the peel that gives you a burst of bitter sweet flavor with every mouthful. Here’s the recipe.

Khoshaf – Dried Fruit Compote

Prep time 10 min Soak time 24 hours
A delicious mix of stewed fruit, raisins and pine nuts in a rich apricot syrup. An ideal and light way to end a rich meal. Served on its own or topped with vanilla ice cream or heavy cream. Here’s the recipe.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.

Derek