The Thanksgiving holiday can be one of the most gratifying times of the year. Enjoying a great meal with family and friends is a treat that most look forward to. However, it can also be a very stressful time. So much so that some do not enjoy the holiday as much as they’d like because of the stresses brought on by cooking, cleaning, and entertaining.

Fortunately, a little planning can provide much-needed relief and allow for a more enjoyable holiday. Ask yourself questions such as:

1. Do I want a fresh or frozen turkey?

2. How big of a turkey should I buy?

3. How much space do I have in my refrigerator?

Knowing the number of guests you’ll have will help you to select an appropriately sized turkey. A commonly used ratio is one pound for each person. When deciding whether to buy a fresh or frozen turkey, ask yourself if you want to spend time thawing a frozen turkey or if you prefer to be able to prepare the turkey right away.

Also, think of how much space is available in your refrigerator when deciding between buying a fresh or frozen turkey. If there isn’t much room, you’ll probably want to choose a fresh turkey.

Finally, try shopping several weeks before the holiday to ease the tension that can build up if you wait until the last minute. Make sure you have all the needed ingredients before the big day and start cooking early to allow yourself time to enjoy time with family and friends.

What’s in Season? Apples

Apples are a very popular fruit and there are many factors to explain that. In addition to the great taste, apples are high in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Apples can be eaten by themselves or used in various recipes, juices, and drinks.

Apples come in many types, and in a variety of colors and sizes. In terms of taste, apples range from very tart (i.e., Granny Smith) to very sweet (i.e., McIntosh).

Apples should be stored in the refrigerator to prolong a firm texture. The USDA recommends that apples are not washed until they are ready to eat.

Deep Dish Apple-Cranberry Pie

Makes: 10 servings

Ingredients

4 apples (large, peeled, cored, and sliced) 2 1/2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen) 3/4 cup sugar

1/4 cup flour (all purpose) 1 teaspoon apple pie spice 1 pie crust (prepared) Directions

1. Stir all ingredients together in a medium sized mixing bowl and place in a 10-inch deep dish pie pan.

2. Place one pie crust on top of the fruits. Cut 3 or 4 slits to allow the steam to escape.

3. Bake at 375 degrees for about an hour. Serve warm with a slice of pie crust over top of the fruit. Refrigerate any leftovers.