Recipes Archives - Page 2 of 27

Celebrate a World of Flavors with Wild Blueberries

Spring has officially sprung – well, sort of – and as we begin to acclimate to the time change and warmer weather, I’m sure you’re starting to feel the growing urge to get out and explore. While travel may be difficult for some at this time, you can still get the travel bug out of your system by cooking your way around the world.

March marks the start of National Nutrition Month, and to celebrate, we want to share some healthy, colorful foods all made with wild blueberries that come from various corners of the world. Wild blueberries are only native to Maine and Eastern parts of Canada, which makes them incredibly special – and the same can be said for native cuisines from around the globe. Join us as we travel around the world and explore some delicious global cuisines that have been slightly adapted to include wild blueberries as a garnish, sauce, or in the recipe itself.

Come on a nutritious, flavorful journey with us to celebrate National Nutrition Month!

Tandoori Chicken Sticks with Wild Blueberry Fig Sauce

Originating in British India, Tandoori Chicken has been a staple throughout South Asia and the Middle East as well as in Western countries. Asian Indian Cuisine often includes lean protein foods, such as seafood, and lean cuts of meat or poultry. Top this off with a rich and delicious wild blueberry fig sauce, and you have the perfect mix of healthy protein and antioxidants.

Szechuan Crispy Duck with Chinese Wild Blueberry Sauce

Duck is particularly prominent within Chinese cuisine, commonly eaten with scallions and cucumbers. Chinese Cuisine often includes two things – carbohydrates or starches such as noodles, rice or buns, as well as an accompanying stir fry dish or veggies, fish, and meat. As for this Szechuan Crispy Duck, you can enjoy it with a side of wild blueberry sauce for some naturally added sweetness.

5 Minute Black Bean Tacos with Wild Blueberry Sauce

Latin Americans have always used freshly made, soft, flat corn tortillas and served them with fillings like fish. Nowadays, tacos are an extremely popular U.S. dish, and have taken on many adaptations (or as we call it “fusions”). Tacos are easy to put together – give it a try for yourself with these black bean tacos topped with some savory wild blueberry sauce.

Simple Summer Gazpacho with Wild Blueberries

Gazpacho, a cold soup commonly found in Spanish cuisine, especially in parts of Andalusia, traditionally contains colorful veggies such as tomatoes and peppers. Usually consumed with bread and other tapas (small plates), gazpacho is a refreshing meal – especially when you add some wild blueberries into the mix! This summer gazpacho with wild blueberries only requires two hours in the fridge to chill and then it’s ready to serve!

Chicken Saté with Wild Blueberry Peanut Butter Sauce

Chicken Saté (Satay) is a Southeast Asian dish made with seasoned, skewered, and grilled meat, served most commonly with a peanut sauce. Invented by street vendors, this dish is considered a delicacy in many Asian countries. Our recipe spins the classic Southeast Asian dish with some heart-and-brain-healthy wild blueberries, giving this dish a boost of sweet, tangy flavor and nutritional value.

If you decide to cook your way around the world in honor of National Nutrition Month, we want to see what you created! Take a picture, post on social media, and tag us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter so we can see your delicious dishes from around the world.

Five Wild Blueberry Date Night Desserts to Try this Valentine’s Day

Planning on staying in to enjoy a delicious dinner with your loved ones this Valentine’s Day? Whoever your Valentine may be this year, mom or dad, your significant other, or your best Galentine, they’ll be excited to enjoy the mouthwatering, wild blueberry dessert line-up you’ve added to the menu. Whether you plan on baking with friends and family, or you prefer to bake solo, these wild blueberry desserts have a whole lot of heart-healthy, wild blue goodness. With 33% more anthocyanins, 2x the antioxidants, and 72% more fiber than ordinary blueberries, incorporating wild blueberries will show your Valentine how much you care.

Eat Your Heart Out This Valentine’s Day

Mini Wild Blueberry Cakes With Vanilla Icing: These Mini Wild Blueberry Cakes are the perfect bite sized desserts to share during your date night. Top off the recipe by drizzling warm vanilla frosting over them as the final touch.

Paleo Wild Blueberry Chocolate Macaroons: If you’re on the paleo train, but are looking for a dessert that still satisfies your sweet tooth, look no further. Covered in dark chocolate and baked to perfection, these Paleo Wild Blueberry Chocolate Macaroons will melt your heart and simultaneously melt in your mouth! It’s the perfect serving of sweet and salty in one scrumptious bite.

Naturally Colored Wild Blueberry Buttercream Frosting: Whip up some Naturally Colored Wild Blueberry Buttercream Frosting from scratch. Made fresh, this frosting recipe is the perfect pairing to your favorite cake (or cupcake) mix!

Wild Blueberry Fool: Don’t be misled by the title – you’re definitely not a fool for choosing this Valentine’s treat. Keep it sweet and simple with this Wild Blueberry Fool – a yogurt-based dessert recipe that delivers intense flavor with a little bit of wild blueberry decadence.

Gluten Free Wild Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: If baking a whole cake seems like too much, try making these Gluten Free Wild Blueberry Cheesecake Bars which can be divided into the perfect individual serving size. Covered with tons of juicy wild blueberries, these bars are packed with plenty of nutrients and flavor.

Planning to whip up some of these special treats for your Valentine? We want to see what desserts you enjoyed during your special evening. Take a picture, post on social media, and tag us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter so we can see your wild Valentine’s Day treats.

Grab a Slice of Wild Blueberry Pie for National Pi Day

Happy National Pi Day! In honor of the March 14 holiday, which is the annual celebration of the mathematical constant π, we’re celebrating here in Maine by whipping up some of our favorite wild blueberry pie recipes. Some are more traditional, some aren’t – but we know you’ll love the wild goodness in each and every bite just the same.

Wild Blueberry Pie: Keep it sweet and simple by baking this classic Wild Blueberry Pie. Not only is it filled with purple and blue goodness, but the flaky golden brown crust is extra delicious!

Mini Wild Blueberry Cream Pies: Baked individually in cupcake tins, these Mini Wild Blueberry Cream Pies are the perfect bite size, so you don’t need to feel a shred of guilt indulging in one (or two). I mean hey, it’s National Pie Day after all!

Wild Blueberry and Goat Cheese Hand Pies: In these Wild Blueberry and Goat Cheese Hand Pies, you get a combo of sweet and savory all in one.

Creamy Wild Blueberry Pie: Lastly, this recipe is a new twist on a classic Maine dessert – this creamy wild blueberry pie carries a wonderfully intense wild blue flavor, allowing every bite to melt in your mouth.

Planning to bake a wild blueberry pie in honor of National Pi Day? We want to see what you come up with. Take a picture, post on social media, and tag us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter so we can see the wild in every slice!

Brain-Healthy Breakfast Recipes to Start Busy School Mornings Off Right

It’s that time of year again–some kids have already had their first day of school while kids here in Maine are just heading back to the classroom. While it’s still a little unclear what the school year will ultimately look like for your child–either in-person learning or remote–we want to say a big thank you to all the parents out there.

While we can’t help with the homework, we can help with making your mornings a bit easier. For most families, mornings are super busy but breakfast is the one meal during the day that parents tell us they have complete control over what their child eats. So, why not make breakfast filled with brainy-healthy foods to give your kiddos a great start to their school day? Here’s a little breakfast inspiration: six wild blueberry breakfast recipes that will help nourish your child’s brain. With 33% more brain-healthy anthocyanins and 2x the antioxidants of regular blueberries, adding a healthy scoop of wild blueberries to your kid’s morning is a great way to begin the day.

Try these grab-and-go Wild Blueberry Mini Muffins

The morning goes quickly, especially when you’re juggling so much! Out of time? No problem, these quick and easy, grab-and-go Wild Blueberry Mini Muffins are the perfect solution. Simply bake them in the evening, store them in a tupperware container, and everyone will be able to grab a yummy muffin on their way out the door in the morning.

Pro tip: throw them in the microwave for 15 seconds to make it nice and warm before biting into some wild muffin goodness.

Whip up some Wild Blueberry Zucchini Bread

Start your day on a nutritious note with our Wild Blueberry Zucchini Bread—a delicious and wholesome treat designed to fuel young minds. Packed with vibrant wild blueberries and nutrient-rich zucchini, this bread offers a delectable way to kick-start your mornings. Wild blueberries are best in this recipe because they add a bold, tart flavor and their small size means more berries per bite.

Prep some Dried Wild Blueberry Almond Granola

Bursting with nutty almonds and antioxidant-packed dried wild blues, this Dried Wild Blueberry Almond Granola not only supports cognitive function, but also delivers essential nutrients that growing bodies need. Prepare a batch in advance and enjoy it as a quick weekday breakfast or as a topping for yogurt parfaits.

Have dessert for breakfast with Wild Blueberry Crumb Cake

With ‘cake’ in the title, this is an easy make-ahead breakfast option that tastes good and may encourage your kids to eat breakfast–especially if they think they’re getting away with eating dessert in the morning. Wild Blueberry Crumb Cake tastes delicious without sacrificing added nutrients.

For the toast fans out there, try some Coconut Peanut Butter Wild Blueberry Toast

If your child loves old-school PB&Js, try this homemade spin-off: Coconut Peanut Butter Wild Blueberry Toast. Using just seven simple ingredients, top your grain of choice (e.g., whole wheat bread, an english muffin, or whatever your child loves!) with some wild blueberry goodness.

Blend up a Mix-In-A-Pan Wild Blueberry Snack Cake

Introducing a hassle-free marvel for busy mornings: Mix-In-A-Pan Wild Blueberry Snack Cake! The ease of preparation makes it an ideal option for hectic school days—simply mix the ingredients in a single pan and pop it in the oven. Plus, it’s a versatile delight that can be sliced into convenient portions for breakfast on-the-go or as an after-school pick-me-up.

Did you know that research has found wild blueberries to have a positive effect on your child’s memory, decision making, response times, concentration, and mood? That’s why wild blueberries should power your family’s morning to make for a great day ahead. If you try one of the above breakfast recipes, let us know which one your kids loved the most! Take a picture, post on social, and tag us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter so we can see your kids’ *wild* breakfast. If your profile and/or post is public, we’ll be sure to repost it on our stories or respond. Can’t wait to see what you come up with for your family!

Summer Camp Lunchbox Friendly Wild Blueberry Recipes

It’s officially summertime, which means that there are tons of adventures waiting for you and your family around every corner–think warm nights spent around the campfire, scenic hikes, lake dips, and best of all, yummy wild blueberry dishes! As the world begins to return to some semblance of normality and the kids start summer camp, you may be looking for some quick, kid-friendly snack ideas to keep their lunchboxes–and bellies–full. Add an extra dose of brain-healthy goodness to your kids’ lunches by adding a scoop of wild blueberries to some tried-and-true lunchbox favorites.

Need some camp lunchbox recipe inspiration? We’ve got you covered.

Power your kid’s camp morning with Wild Blueberry French Toast Pinwheels.

If camp has an early morning start, these super packable Wild Blueberry French Toast Pinwheels are a great go-to. Just stick a toothpick in it, grab some Tupperware, and *BAM*, these bite-sized pinwheels are ready to travel with you wherever you go!

Your kids will love grabbing a big handful of this Dried Wild Blueberry and Almond Granola.

One thing we know for certain: granola is the best camp snack around. It’s so easy to pack and our Dried Wild Blueberry and Almond Granola recipe can be eaten with yogurt or by itself. It’s also a great calorie-dense option that will provide your kids with a tremendous amount of protein and fiber. Pack them something that tastes great and is super easy to scoop with their hands, straight out of the baggie. You can even get them involved in preparing this recipe. Easy peasy, wild blueberry squeezie (that’s the saying right?)!

Whip up some No-Bake Wild Blueberry Energy Bars to keep your kids going throughout the whole day!

Pack your kiddos some healthy and energizing No-Bake Wild Blueberry Energy Bars to help get them through their fun, but long, summer days at camp. This quick and easy recipe only requires an hour in the fridge, and then its ready to be packed away for a fun day in the sun. Limited parent time, kid taste tested and approved.

Skip the sugary grocery store fruit roll-ups and make your own Wild Blueberry Fruit Leather.

This three-ingredient recipe is a healthy alternative to sugary, store-bought roll-up snacks your kids might already be familiar with. Transform delicious, frozen wild blueberries into a tasty yet chewy, Wild Blueberry Fruit Leather for the kids to snack on throughout the day. Packing your kiddos’ lunches with some wild blueberry goodness will help fuel their day with brain-healthy goodness. Did you know that research has found wild blueberries have significant positive effects in children on memory, decision-making, response times, concentration and mood? If you pack some of the above recipes, let us know which one your kids loved the most. Take a picture, share on social, and tag us Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to share your kids *wild* camp experience!

Eat for Brain Health with the Cognition Kitchen Guide

The human brain is remarkable and arguably one of the most important organs in the body, yet many people take their brain health for granted. To bring attention to this issue and provide ideas for incorporating brain-healthy foods into the diet, the Wild Blueberry Association of North America has chosen Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month to team up with three nutrient-dense food commodities–the International Tree Nut Council Nutrition Research and Education Foundation, the National Fisheries Institute (NFI), and the American Egg Board’s Egg Nutrition Center. Together, these associations have developed a consumer-friendly guide about eating for brain health, which shines a light on the importance of having a well-rounded, brain healthy diet at all ages. The main message of the guide? It’s never too early to start taking care of your brain!

“Eating a brain-healthy diet means including an array of foods–that’s why we’re so excited to partner with these food groups to create this easy-to-use guide,” says Kitty Broihier, MS, RD and Nutrition Advisor for the Wild Blueberry Association of North America. “The Cognition Kitchen guide is a free consumer resource that provides science-based, but simple, information about these brain-healthy foods. Inside the guide consumers will find a selection of recipes and details on how these four foods help nourish a healthy brain.”

Each of these nutritious food groups was chosen to be included specifically because of the research that supports their brain-healthy attributes (and of course, their delicious taste). The 27-page guide details:

The science behind eating for brain health
The type of diets that support brain health
Some recommended foods to add to your grocery list
Why these partner food associations help support a healthy brain
Health information about each food group
Healthy/accessible recipes that people of all ages will love

Every day, the scientific community is learning more about the important connections between brain health, mental health, mood, and the food we eat. Brains function best when they get the right fuel—and that fuel comes from eating a healthy diet filled with nutrient-packed foods like fruits (especially wild blueberries), vegetables, eggs, nuts, and seafood.

The guide is free and available for download at www.cognition-kitchen.com.

Why Wild Blueberries Are Nicknamed “Brain Berries”
Research has linked blueberries and cognition since the 1990s and has shown that these tiny blue wonders can improve various measures of cognitive ability for all ages—children, teens, middle-aged adults, and older adults. Much of the focus on cognitive benefits is due to the flavonoid content of the wild berries—particularly the anthocyanins (and by the way, research shows wild blueberries contain more anthocyanins than any other commonly consumed berry in the US diet, including ordinary blueberries). What’s more, Wild blueberries taste amazing, and have a more intense blueberry flavor than ordinary blueberries. Find them in the frozen food aisle of the grocery store and add a daily healthy scoop of wild to your diet!

Wild Blueberries recently launched a brain health content hub on their website to complement the Cognition Kitchen guide. Read more about these tiny, potent berries and their benefits for your brain by visiting www.cognition-kitchen.com.

Get the Dish on Brain Healthy Fish
Fish and shellfish are among the only foods naturally rich in a healthy type of omega-3 fat called DHA, which literally builds the brain and helps support brain health throughout the entire lifespan. DHA makes up 97% of the omega-3s in a newborn’s brain, and the DHA content of an infant’s brain triples during the first three months of life. Research shows that children of moms who eat seafood 2-3 times each week during pregnancy reach milestones–like climbing stairs, copying sounds and drinking from a cup–more quickly. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans encourages all children and adults, especially moms-to-be, to eat a variety of seafood—including popular options like salmon, canned tuna, shrimp, tilapia and crab—at least 2-3 times each week.

Why We’re Nuts about Brainy Tree Nuts
Tree nuts, such as almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios and walnuts, have been shown to help reduce the risk for chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, and may play a positive role in satiety and maintaining a healthy body weight. Emerging research is suggesting that long-term nut consumption may also improve cognitive function and help reduce cognitive dysfunction, such as dementia. Oxidative stress is believed to play a major role in brain health. Consuming antioxidant-rich foods, such as nuts, may help protect the brain against the effects of oxidative stress, and ultimately help decrease cognitive decline.

The Eggcellent Benefits of Eggs for Brain Health at All Ages
Eggs are a naturally nutrient-rich choice providing a good or excellent source of eight essential nutrients, including choline — a nutrient that helps reduce the risk of birth defects and supports brain health throughout the lifespan; however, more than 90% of Americans (including approximately 90% of pregnant women) don’t get enough of this essential nutrient and it’s not found in high quantities in many foods. Fortunately, eggs are one of the most concentrated sources of choline in the American diet. In fact, two large eggs supply more than half the recommended intake for pregnant women and can help them meet their needs.

The new 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans specifically recommend nutrient-dense eggs as an important first food for infants and toddlers, as well as for pregnant women and lactating moms. The new Guidelines affirm that eggs — long known to be a vital source of nutrients for people of all ages — provide several key nutrients important for babies during a time in which their brains are most rapidly developing and can contribute to health and well-being during every life stage. For more information on the latest research and delicious recipes, please visit www.EggNutritionCenter.org.

Start Eating for Brain Health Today with Cognition Kitchen

Not sure how to start a brain health eating regimen? Download the free guide today to learn more about easy steps you can take to start eating for brain health at any age. If you make any of the recipes, please share on social media and tag us using #CognitionKitchen.

Have A Wild Kickoff to Summer this Memorial Day Weekend

There’s nothing quite like Memorial Day Weekend (MDW) to signify that warmer summer days are officially on their way (especially here in Maine). As MDW approaches, you’re probably dusting off your sunglasses and digging out your long forgotten about sunscreen as you get ready to enjoy a few days in the backyard, a park, at the lake, or on the beach. But have you decided on which recipes are on your list to celebrate the weekend?

Well, we’re here to help give your MDW a dash of wild and a whole helping of deliciousness. For those of us living in New England wild blueberries definitely are the taste of summer–but for those that aren’t, you can have a little dose of Maine summer by picking up frozen wild blueberries at your local grocery store in the frozen foods aisle.

Check out a few of our favorite family-friendly (and grill-friendly) recipes that include frozen wild blueberries.

Mix up a cocktail/mocktail to sip while grilling – Wild Maine Collins

For a refreshing but healthy cocktail/mocktail, whip up a Wild Maine Collins. This refreshing drink screams “summer is coming” and will get you in the mood for a weekend of family fun.

While you wait for the grill to heat up, start with some Wild Blueberry Jalapeno Poppers

Start off your backyard picnic with a little kick and a whole lotta flavor with Wild Blueberry Jalapeno Poppers. These tasty appetizers are great to offer alongside veggies and dip or some watermelon to make sure everyone doesn’t go hungry waiting for the main course. Dig in!

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Coat your wings, ribs, or kebabs in Wild Blueberry BBQ Sauce

Every grill master seems to have their own take on what makes the best BBQ sauce, but we’re throwing a new one into the ring. Give our Wild Blueberry BBQ Sauce a try and we promise your family will be begging for seconds. If you don’t eat meat, this sauce also makes for a great dipping option with meat alternatives.

Throw together a tried-and-true Caesar Salad, but give it an upgrade with wild blueberries

Caesar salads are always a crowd pleaser, but what if you gave your salad an upgrade? Try adding wild blueberries in for a yummy, summery take on this refreshing appetizer.

Top of your family’s meal with a frozen but healthy treat: Wild Blueberry Yogurt Pops

A holiday meal isn’t truly complete without a sweet treat at the end–but make it healthy with Wild Blueberry Yogurt Pops. These pops will become a fast family favorite and are a sneaky way to incorporate brain healthy wild blueberries into something sweet. Just be careful of brain freeze!

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How are you spending your MDW? Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to connect with us and share your *wild* weekend plans. We can’t wait to see what you cook up! Have a wonderful, sunny, and safe weekend.

Eat Your Heart Out with Wild Blueberries

February marks Heart Health Month AND Valentine’s Day – what a perfect combo! If you’re looking to up the heart healthy ingredients in any of your dishes this month, we suggest adding a little “wild” blue to any meal. Why? Because not only do Wild Blueberries taste delicious, they’re also good for your cardiovascular health. Here are three delicious recipes that will help you celebrate with your sweetheart without sacrificing heart healthy nutrients.

Start Your Valentine’s Day with Wild Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes

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There’s a famous quote that says, “There is hardship in everything except eating pancakes.” We tend to agree. Kick off your V-day celebration with our Wild Blueberry-filled take on the classic breakfast favorite. Wild Blueberry Ricotta pancakes are light and fluffy, and bursting with sweet, tangy Wild Blue goodness in every bite. Your sweetheart will thank you as they load up their fork and ask for seconds.

Have a Light, but Filling Lunch with a Wild Foods Salad

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After a hearty breakfast (Get it? We’re punny), you might be looking for lighter lunch fare. Our Wild Foods Salad recipe will do the trick. Not only are Wild Blueberries heart-health approved, but so is salmon! Whip this up for a nice midday pick-me-up.

Take Dinner Up a Notch with Wild Blueberry & Mushroom Risotto

While many restaurants are still closed due to the pandemic, there’s no reason you can’t make a swoon-worthy Valentine’s Day dinner right at home. The Wild Blueberry & Wild Mushroom Risotto may seem like an unlikely pairing but actually makes for the perfect sweet and savory comfort food. Treat your Valentine to this homemade favorite with a twist.

Curious about other Wild Blueberry recipes? Check out our recipe library.

From our hearts to yours, Happy Valentine’s Day and Heart Health Month!

Ring in 2021 with Delicious Wild Blueberry Mocktails

While we’re by no means advocating skipping over one of our favorite times of the year, it’s impossible not to start thinking about what a COVID-19 New Year’s Eve celebration is going to look like. With social distancing, masks, and cooler temperatures, especially in New England, here to stay for a few months, skipping the hangover and going with a New Year’s Eve in, featuring wild blueberry mocktails, games, and some good movies sounds pretty good.

And just because a mocktail is non-alcoholic doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Here are five of our favorite wild blueberry drink recipes that are easy to make – and good for your noggin.

Wild Blueberry Green Tea Mojito

If you’re looking for something refreshing and extremely sippable, whip up a pitcher of Wild Blueberry Green Tea Mojitos. Couple the flavorful frozen wild blueberries with green tea goodness, and you have a drink that is packed to the brim with brain-healthy benefits. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint to top it off to give it that classic craft cocktail feel without the alcohol added.

2. Wild Maine Collins

We know, we know–the first ingredient in this recipe is rum–but we promise that the Wild Maine Collins is just as tasty without the spirits added. This recipe hails from one of our favorite Portland, Maine cocktail bars – The Hunt and Alpine Club. With just three simple ingredients, a shaker, ice, and a chilled glass, you have a mocktail that everyone will enjoy ringing the New Year in with. Garnish with a lemon or some frozen blueberries for an extra pop of flavor.

3. Wild Blueberry Chia Fresca

Chia seeds are naturally nutrient dense (think tons of fiber) and soften when soaked in liquid after a short period of time. They make a great textured addition to mocktails, and with that, we encourage you to try the Wild Blueberry Chia Fresca. This low-calorie, nutrient dense drink is great for your nutrition-focused family member that wants something to sip on with no guilt involved.

4. Sparkling Wild Blueberry Lemonade

For those that wish for an eternal summer, the Sparkling Wild Blueberry Lemonade could be the perfect mocktail for your New Year’s Eve celebration. Between the refreshing coconut water and the zesty lemon juice, you’re in for a blended treat that will have you looking forward to 2021’s first heat wave.

5. Honey, Orange, and Wild Blueberry Thirst Quencher

It’s true that wild blueberries wouldn’t grow without honeybees, so this mocktail is dedicated to our buzz worthy insect friends. The Honey, Orange, and Wild Blueberry Thirst Quencher mocktail is a year-round treat that packs a punch with numerous bold flavors. So, quench your thirst for a New Year with this sweet drink.

From all of us at the Wild Blueberry Association of North America, thank you for another great year. We know that 2020 has had its challenges, but we hope that your 2021 will be safe, healthy and full of wild goodness. Check back with us in January for more content–until then, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

Four Tips to Host a Wildly Successful Thanksgiving Dinner During a Pandemic

We can’t believe we’re saying this, but with Halloween behind us, the holiday season is officially here (where does the time go?!). The holidays are always a special time for so many reasons – seeing loved ones, exchanging gifts, and, of course, eating good food. Despite this year looking a little different, it’s still possible to host a wildly successful – and safe – Thanksgiving meal. Here are our top four tips (and some delicious wild blueberry recipes!) to do just that.

Be honest with family: With COVID-19 cases on the rise across the country, the traditional large family gathering around the Thanksgiving table may not be possible this year. Keep your guest list small and limited to those in your household while being honest with family members that they may not be invited this year in order to maintain social distancing. No matter how small your dinner is, it’s always good to plan early. So, roll up your sleeves, take a deep breath, and start planning a Thanksgiving meal you and your immediate family won’t forget.
Rely on those tried and true recipes: A holiday dinner is not the time to experiment and try all the new recipes you’ve pinned on Pinterest. Instead, look to those tried and true family favorites. Not sure what to prepare? We have some proven family favorites that we share each year:

Make a detailed grocery list (and shop early!): Once you’ve decided on your Thanksgiving menu, start planning your grocery list. You’ll want to beat the grocery store rush (especially if you live in a busy area that still has lines to get in), so it’s important to make your comprehensive list early, determine where you need to go to get all of the necessary ingredients, and then get shopping!

Quick hint: if you decide to make one of our favorite wild blueberry recipes, Maine wild blueberries are always available in the frozen food aisle of your local grocery store (just make sure it says “wild” on the package).

Prep anything you can ahead of time: In the same way that meal prep sets you up for a great week ahead, meal prepping what you can ahead of time for Thanksgiving will set you up for success. Many people recommend starting the following before Thanksgiving morning:
- Stuffing
- Casseroles
- Gravy
- Any and all desserts
- Roasted vegetables

While not everything can be prepared ahead of time, do your future self a favor and prep what you can.

However, you decide to celebrate Thanksgiving this year, we hope it’s wildly special, super safe, and filled to the brim with good food. Happy Thanksgiving!