Because I have an extensive guest list for Thanksgiving, I have to start thinking about it very far in advance, and I do! Right about now I begin to think of a theme for the holiday festivities. In the past, each year I think of a specific idea and buy my decorations accordingly. But as the years have gone by and more people started coming every year, it became harder to think of different themes.

Further than that, I began to realize the themes took away from the significance of Thanksgiving itself. Because I have so many great-nieces and nephews now, I thought this is what we should be celebrating. I always emphasize the importance of giving thanks, appreciating all we have and the value of family being together. 

What I do now is pick a color scheme I would like and create an ambiance with. I have already chosen one for this year and I know it will be beautiful.

I will be posting many recipes from now until the holidays that I think would be great to use, whether you are entertaining or not. I will try to create a list of them early on so you can plan and decide which ones you would like to use!

This cornbread is perfect for your holiday menu. It comes out so moist and delicious. The addition of cheeses gives it a nice, gooey texture. The rosemary and thyme add a savory fragrance. If every day leading up to your holiday is as hectic as mine, you will appreciate how easy it is to make.

This recipe is courtesy of Tasteofhome and will serve 8 people who will devour every last bite.

 Ingredients for Herb and Olive Oil Cornbread

3/4 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. minced fresh rosemary or 1/4 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed
1 tsp. minced fresh thyme or 1/4 tsp. dried thyme
1/2 tsp. salt
1 large egg
3/4 cup buttermilk
3 tbsp. good olive oil, divided
1/2 cup plus 2 tbs. shredded Italian cheese blend, divided

Preheat oven to 425°F.

Place an 8-inch cast iron skillet in oven; heat skillet 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk the first eight ingredients. 

In another bowl, whisk egg, buttermilk, and 2 tablespoons olive oil until blended.

Add to the cornmeal mixture; stir just until moistened.

Stir in 1/2 cup cheese.

Carefully remove hot skillet from oven.

Add the remaining oil to skillet; tilt pan to coat bottom and sides.

Add batter, spreading it evenly.

Sprinkle with the remaining cheese.

Bake 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. 

Cut into wedges and serve warm.

It’s that simple!

My beautiful orchid!

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