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image of macaroni & cheese for the blog about Savoring Gratitude: Creative Twists on Classic Thanksgiving Side Recipes | Mac & Cheese recipe | Baked mac and cheese

Savoring Gratitude: Creative Twists on Classic Thanksgiving Side Recipes

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    As the season of gratitude approaches, we’re bursting with excitement to share in the joy of Thanksgiving traditions, as well as infusing this festive time with a dash of holiday magic and a heap of deliciousness. Picture this: the tantalizing scent of roasted goodness filling the air, the laughter echoing around the table, and the pure joy of creating unforgettable culinary delights. So, gather ’round, dear friends, as we dive into 2 Thanksgiving side recipes that blend tradition with a sprinkle of innovation, making this Thanksgiving an absolute feast for the senses!

    The Perfect Side Is as Cheesy as It Sounds! Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe

    Ingredients:

    • 16 ounces elbow macaroni
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
    • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    • 4 cups milk (whole milk for a creamier texture)
    • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
    • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
    • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
    • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
    • 2 cups Gouda cheese, shredded
    • 1-8 ml Organic Full Spectrum CBD Oil
    • Breadcrumbs for topping (optional)
     

    Instructions

    1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish and set it aside.
    2. Cook your elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
    3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden.
    4. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens and begins to simmer.
    5. Add the paprika, white pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt to the sauce, stirring well to combine.
    6. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gouda until melted and smooth.
    7. Remove the sauce from the heat and carefully stir in the CBD oil. Be sure not to overheat the CBD oil as it can degrade under high heat.
    8. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese and lab-tested CBD sauce, ensuring all the pasta is well-coated. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
    9. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese for a crispy finish.
    10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
    11. Allow the mac and cheese to cool slightly before serving, allowing the CBD oil to fully integrate. Enjoy your comforting, innovative take on a classic dish!

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    image of Brussel sprouts for the blog about Savoring Gratitude: Creative Twists on Classic Thanksgiving Side Recipes | Brussels Sprouts side | Vegan thanksgiving sides

    Vegan Thanksgiving Side: Baked Brussels Sprouts

    Ingredients:

    • 1 1/2 pounds fresh brussels sprouts, halved (or quartered, if large)
    • 8 ounces fresh red pearl onions
    • 8 ounces medium shallots, halved lengthwise
    • 6 to 8 thyme sprigs
    • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
    • 1 pound king oyster mushrooms, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
    • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
    • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
    • 4-6 ml of Pure CBD Isolate Oil Tincture
     

    Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
    2. Toss together brussels sprouts, pearl onions, shallots, thyme, and 1/4 cup oil in a bowl. 
    3. Place mixture on a large-rimmed baking sheet; sprinkle with pepper and 1 teaspoon salt.
    4. Roast in preheated oven until tender and browned, about 30 minutes. 
    5. Remove from oven; remove and discard thyme sprigs.
    6. While brussels sprout mixture roasts, heat remaining 1/4 cup oil in a large skillet over medium-high.
    7. Add mushrooms; cook, stirring occasionally, until just starting to brown, 6 to 8 minutes.
    8. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook, stirring occasionally, until nicely browned and nearly crisp for another 6 to 8 minutes.
    9. Remove from heat. Stir in soy sauce, smoked paprika, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. 
    10. Transfer mushrooms to paper towels to drain.
    11. Stir mushroom mixture into brussels sprout mixture just before serving.

    Revitalize Your Thanksgiving Spread with These Creative Thanksgiving Side Recipes Twists

    As we wrap up this flavorful journey, we invite you to savor the culmination of traditions and innovation on your Thanksgiving table. Imagine the blissful aromas wafting from the kitchen, the laughter weaving through each dish, and the shared delight of these culinary wonders. From the cheesy goodness of CBD-infused mac and cheese to the harmonious blend of roasted veggies and savory mushrooms, these recipes infuse the holiday with a fresh twist, leaving taste buds dancing and hearts brimming with gratitude. As you prepare to serve these delectable creations, know that each bite encapsulates the spirit of this joyous season – a perfect fusion of tradition, innovation, and heartfelt togetherness. Cheers to a Thanksgiving filled with warmth, laughter, and extraordinary flavors!

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    CEO | Craig Henderson

    Extract Labs CEO Craig Henderson is one of the country’s top experts in cannabis CO2 extraction. After serving in the U.S. Army, Henderson received his master’s in mechanical engineering from the University of Louisville before becoming a sales engineer at one of the nation’s leading extraction technology companies. Sensing an opportunity, Henderson began extracting CBD in his garage in 2016, putting him at the forefront of the hemp movement. He’s been featured in Rolling StoneMilitary TimesThe Today Show, High Times, the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies, and many more. 

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