Alternative to Turkey for the Holidays

Perhaps you, your family, and your friends have become a little bit tired of all the same menu ideas for Thanksgiving dinner. Some in your circle would possibly prefer something different, perhaps even suggesting a replacement for that classic turkey entrée for a change.

Is it time to modify or extend your age-old menu strategy and slip in a few novel ideas to please more guests?

Some suggestions here might serve as supplements to the traditional fare or even provide some satisfying and deliciously pleasing alternatives.

Of course, a key component for a fun and delicious Thanksgiving meal will be a Scott Harvey’s Inzinerator, the best Zinfandel wine around, and a Scott Harvey Mountain Selection Barbera Red Wine.

Alternative Thanksgiving Menu Ideas

Glazed Cornish Hens

Instead of struggling with that gigantic 14-pound turkey and later trying to distribute the remains among the guests, how about a more manageable and perhaps delicate approach?

For a smaller group, two beautiful Cornish hens grilled in an onion and rosemary glaze is the right volume and taste, leaving your group to enjoy more of the other offerings.

Orange and Honey Glazed Ham

Many hosts offer ham as a supplement or alternative to turkey. Why not jazz it up with a beautiful and spicy orange-honey glaze? This entrée is excellent for the big dinner, but the sandwiches from the leftovers will also be enjoyed.

The ham, coated with a glaze of honey, orange zest, brown sugar, whole-grain mustard, and pepper, presents a great alternative as the main dish—a tasty Scott Harvey Barbera red wine pairs nicely with this option.

Pomegranate-Maple Glazed Lamb Chops

For an authentic gourmet touch and a delightful Thanksgiving alternative, lamb chops caramelized with pomegranate molasses are sure to please.

Another suggestion for lamb chops is to braise them in cranberry chutney. The real advantage here is that guests can consume these in “perfect portion” sizes without “over-stuffing” themselves.   

Vegetarian Spinach Pumpkin Lasagna

First, not every guest may want to gorge themselves on meat products. Secondly, everyone likes a new taste experience, even on Thanksgiving. A Vegetarian Spinach Pumpkin Lasagna offers a side or main course that provides a delightful flavor experience that reflects many of the season’s tastes.

The best Zinfandel wine from Scott Harvey Wines will truly complement this option.

Butternut, Apple, and Goat Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin

Stuffed Pork Tenderloin, always a crowd favorite, can be your main event, a delightful alternative to that annual turkey-based experience. A fine complement to other Thanksgiving traditions like yams or mashed potatoes, this entrée works well with pork-flavored stuffing and pumpkin pie.

This tasty option contains many typical Thanksgiving flavors like butternut squash, bacon, spinach, and sage and can be served along with the traditional mashed potatoes and gravy.

Pair with One of Scott Harvey’s Best Zinfandel Wines and Barbera Red Wine

Serve up some delicious Scott Harvey wines, the Barbera Red Wine, and the best Zinfandel wine available anywhere. Guests will love your food choices, but the pairing of Scott Harvey wines will make the difference.

Visit the Scott Harvey website to view the vast array of perfect Holiday wine complements and excellent gifts presented in the winery’s Holiday Gift Guide.

You can also learn about the advantages of a Scott Harvey Griffin Society Wine Club Membership.