If you’re anything like me, November sparks the excitement of planning the perfect Thanksgiving feast.
Since I didn’t grow up with the traditional Thanksgiving, my menu always has a unique twist that blends comfort with a bit of adventure from cultural influences. Every dish brings something special to the table.
Here’s a list of my top 39 favorite dishes and desserts that are sure to make your Thanksgiving truly unforgettable.
1. Roasted Turkey
For many people, the star of Thanksgiving is the turkey! Juicy and seasoned to perfection. For me, the turkey is essential to the Thanksgiving meal—don’t forget the gravy!
2. Boiled Plantains
Boiled plantains are simple yet satisfying. They’re a great savory side that pairs well with almost any main dish. I usually eat mine with Nigerian Pepper Soup or with a tomato stew.
3. Fried Plantains
Next up, fried plantains are crisp on the outside and soft inside, bringing a delicious sweetness to the table. They can be paired with rice, fried eggs, potato fries, yams, and much more.
4. Roasted or Baked Plantains
For a healthier twist, try roasting. These plantains come out soft and subtly sweet. In Nigeria, we call roasted plantains “Boli.” You can make them easily in your air fryer.
5. Garlic Bread
Naturally, no Thanksgiving table is complete without garlic bread. Warm and buttery, this classic starter is an absolute must.
6. Lamb Chops
For those who want something a bit more gourmet, lamb chops seasoned and seared to perfection bring rich flavor to the Thanksgiving spread.
7. Apple Pie
Apple pie filled with spiced apples and a flaky crust is the ultimate comfort dessert.
8. Holiday Cookies
Decorated just for the season, these cookies add fun and sweetness to the dessert table.
9. Fruit Bowls
For a refreshing touch, fruit bowls filled with a colorful mix of seasonal fruits balance out the richer dishes.
10. Fried Rice (Seafood or Beef)
Fried rice adds a festive twist, whether you choose seafood or beef.
11. Beef Kebab
Skewered and grilled to perfection, these beef kebabs add a deliciously smoky flavor.
12. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
In my experience, these are always a crowd favorite. These fresh strawberries covered in rich chocolate offer a sweet finish.
13. Cupcakes
Light and fluffy, cupcakes add a pop of festivity to the dessert table and can be customized with holiday colors.
14. Roasted or Grilled Whole Fish
This whole fish is seasoned with herbs and spices, then either roasted or grilled to perfection. The result is a beautifully golden, tender fish with a subtle smoky flavor and crispy skin.
15. Baked Curry-Flavored Whole Fish
This dish features a whole fish marinated in a bold and aromatic curry blend, then baked until it is perfectly tender.
16. Fresh Salads
To balance out the heavier dishes, fresh salads with seasonal toppings bring color and crunch.
17. Suya
Another dish I love to include as part of my thanksgiving feast is Suya. Suya brings the bold flavors of Nigerian street food right to your table with its spicy, grilled beef. Though it originated as street food, you can easily make Suya at home for an authentic taste experience.
18. Dark Chocolate
Simple yet indulgent, dark chocolate is a perfect finisher for those craving a rich treat.
19. Spiral Potatoes
Fun and crispy, these spiraled potatoes are a favorite among both kids and adults.
20. Spicy Roasted Beef
I season this beef to perfection and roast it until tender, creating the ideal dish for those who enjoy a little heat.
21. Roasted Potatoes
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, roasted potatoes are a comforting side that’s always welcome.
22. Strawberry & Peach Sensation Cake
Light and fruity, this cake is a delightful addition to your dessert lineup.
23. Carrot Cake
Moist and spiced, carrot cake topped with cream cheese frosting is a fall-inspired treat.
24. Pecan Pie Tarts
These bite-sized pecan pies, with a rich, nutty filling, offer a flaky twist on traditional pecan pie.
25. Cannoli
These creamy-filled cannoli add an international flair to your dessert spread.
26. Spaghetti Carbonara with Shrimp and Grilled Chicken
This twist on a classic carbonara includes juicy shrimp, tender grilled chicken, and a mix of colorful peppers for an extra kick.
27. Pan Roasted Sea Bass
I pan-roast the sea bass to a perfect sear, making it delightfully flaky and seasoned with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon for a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth experience. This elegant, lighter option is sure to impress.
28. Spicy Hot Chicken Wings
I coat these wings in a bold, spicy sauce that packs a punch with every bite. They’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them the perfect treat for guests who enjoy a bit of heat.
29. Nigerian Meat Pie
Meat pie is one of my favorite Nigeria snacks. It is a flaky pastries that is filled with seasoned ground meat, carrots, and potatoes.
30. White Rice and Curry-Flavored Chicken Wings
Simple yet delicious, fluffy white rice is paired with tender chicken simmered in a fragrant curry sauce. Add your favorite vegetables, like green peppers, carrots, and corn, for extra color and flavor in every bite.
31. Grilled Turkey Gizzards
These turkey gizzards are marinated and lightly grilled to enhance their flavor, making each bite satisfying.
32. Wings & Oxtail in Tomato Sauce
These chicken wings and tender oxtail are slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, savory tomato sauce, creating a dish that’s full of deep, comforting flavors.
33. Seafood Alfredo
This creamy pasta dish is generously loaded with shrimp, scallops, and crab, all coated in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. It’s a seafood lover’s dream in every bite!
34. Fried Fish
This crispy fish is lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, making it simple yet packed with flavor. Just add a squeeze of lemon for an extra kick! It’s a classic choice that’s guaranteed to satisfy.
35. Yam and Potato Porridge (Nigerian Style)
This dish combines yams and potatoes cooked in a tomato-based sauce with spices and leafy greens. It’s a straightforward, one-pot meal that’s quick to make but delightful to eat.
36. Cat Fish Pepper soup
Catfish Pepper Soup is a warm, spicy Nigerian dish made with fresh catfish simmered in a broth of aromatic spices, herbs, and peppers. It’s commonly served as a comforting meal or appetizer, perfect for a chilly day.
37. Tortilla Chips with Guacamole and Tomato Salsa
Crispy tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole and fresh tomato salsa make for a delicious and easy snack.
38. Puff Puff (Nigerian Style)
Nigerian Puff Puff is a classic, sweet fried dough snack with a golden, slightly crispy exterior and a soft, airy center. Made with flour, sugar, and yeast, these bite-sized treats are lightly spiced, often with a hint of nutmeg, and are perfect for enjoying with family and friends at any gathering.
39. Classic Hot Dogs
Finally, we have the classic hot dog. These hot dogs are easy to put together. You can add any topping you crave—from ketchup and mustard to flavorful onions and relish. They’re ready to be customized and enjoyed!
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