Some Say ‘Thanksgiving Doesn’t Feel Complete’ Without This Dish

Turkey, stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie are all timeless favorites in the holiday meal lineup, with turkey traditionally holding the spotlight. However, a recent survey has turned the spotlight onto cranberry sauce.

Preferences for cranberry sauce vary, with some favoring the canned version. A gelatinous cylinder retains the ridges of its container. Others opt for a fresh relish or sauce, while some pass on cranberries altogether. Regardless of the form they take, cranberries have become a staple in many Thanksgiving feasts.

In a survey commissioned by Ocean Spray involving over 2,000 Americans, 83% of respondents asserted that Thanksgiving doesn't feel complete without cranberry sauce. Yet, the passion for this side dish goes beyond its inclusion on the table.

The survey revealed that 46% of participants are "as passionate about their cranberry sauce preparation as their favorite sports team." Interestingly, 21% of those on "team homemade" and 15% on "team canned" expressed a willingness to get a tattoo dedicated to their cranberry sauce allegiance.

The study also looked into the world of dating. It found that 28% of cranberry enthusiasts view it as a "red flag" if someone disapproves of their cranberry sauce preference. Ocean Spray also highlighted OkCupid's recent in-app matching questions, uncovering intriguing statistics in the canned vs. homemade cranberry debate. Those favoring homemade cranberry sauce receive 18% more likes and engage in 12% more conversations.

It's worth noting that Ocean Spray commissioned the entire study, which may influence the emphasis on cranberry sauce in their research. However, for those who genuinely appreciate homemade cranberry sauce, the company has collaborated with influencers such as Grandma Droniak and Cooking with Lynja to showcase their unique recipes. As an extra gesture for enthusiasts, Ocean Spray is launching exclusive merchandise, allowing you to express your appreciation for the side dish.

Check out the full study here.

If you're on the hunt for some tasty meatless alternatives to the usual Thanksgiving turkey or just want to mix things up with veggie-packed sides, there are several vegetarian recipes that are perfect for holiday get-togethers.

Thanksgiving often revolves around the star of the show, which is obviously the turkey. But some of the best holiday casseroles and sides are either vegetarian or can be easily tweaked to be. Whether you're a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to try something new, there's no reason you can't have a wonderful holiday feast.

The holiday season brings plenty of seasonal fruits and vegetables to choose from. These include squash, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and more. These fall vegetables offer heartiness without the need for meat. Meanwhile, fruits like apples and pears provide versatile options beyond the usual pie offerings.

Your typical Thanksgiving spread has many options that work for vegans and vegetarians alike. Green beans, cranberry sauce, mashed or roasted potatoes, sweet potatoes, and yams are just some of the veg-friendly choices available.

If your kitchen is more used to handling meat, you might not have separate cutting boards and knives just for veggies. Just make sure to thoroughly wash utensils before transitioning to vegetable prep. This is done to avoid any cross-contamination, such as dicing bacon on the same board used for chopping green beans.

Even for guests who typically consume meat and dairy, those who don’t eat meat often share the same appreciation for sweet treats. Offering a vegan dessert can be as straightforward as using coconut oil instead of butter in your pie pastry. Maybe opt for a pint of non-dairy ice cream.

Planning a holiday menu with vegetarian options might feel like a bit of a puzzle. This is especially true if you're not used to it. To assist in your menu planning, we've compiled a list of vegetarian dishes that can grace your holiday table and keep your guests happy.

Forget the turkey stuffing routine this Thanksgiving and go for something sweet, like acorn squash. Mix up your stuffing with veggies, herbs, and diced apple, bake it until it's crispy on top, and serve with veggie gravy. This is a tasty twist for your holiday spread.

Dive into the savory goodness of meatless meatballs packed with quinoa, black beans, roasted veggies, and nutritional yeast. Easily turn them vegan by skipping the egg. Enjoy a flavorful alternative that's both satisfying and plant-powered.

Shake up your holiday menu with butternut squash baked ziti. This baked pasta dish has a creamy butternut squash sauce, generous layers of cheese, and a crispy panko topping. Whether served as a main dish or a smaller side portion, this butternut squash pasta bake will surely be a favorite.

Keep it simple and delicious with Parmesan cheese-stuffed mushrooms. Just grab whole mushrooms, green onions, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and seasoning. Sauté, stuff, bake, and you have a crowd-pleasing snack in no time. You can even swap out the whole mushrooms with peppers.

No holiday meal is complete without dessert. Try your hand at a gluten-free carrot cake with vegan cream cheese frosting. Crafted with vegan-friendly, gluten-free ingredients like almond flour and coconut oil, this sweet treat is naturally sweetened with maple syrup, vanilla, and, of course, carrots.