Hosting a Friendsgiving but not sure where to start? No problem! Italica Olive Oil is here to help you create the ultimate Friendsgiving feast, from classic turkey to inventive olive oil–infused side dishes. Plus, if you’re new to the celebration, we’ll share the story behind Friendsgiving and offer tips for hosting a warm, memorable gathering with your favorite people.
How Does Friendsgiving Differ from Thanksgiving?
Friendsgiving is a modern variation of the traditional Thanksgiving celebration. The precise origins of the celebration are unknown, but the concept is believed to have begun in the early 2000s. Friendsgiving is all about making your own traditions, sharing favorite dishes, and celebrating the family you choose. Typically held in the weeks before or after Thanksgiving, it’s a laid-back, potluck-style gathering that values togetherness over tradition.
Friendsgiving Food
The food on the menu at Friendsgiving largely depends on the nature of the gathering. Many hosts plan Friendsgiving like a potluck, inviting each guest to contribute a dish. Some bring Thanksgiving leftovers so as to reduce food waste over the holiday season, while others use the occasion to show off their culinary skills. However you choose to celebrate, we’ve gathered plenty of mouthwatering recipes to inspire you, all featuring one star ingredient: olive oil.
Friendsgiving Starters with a Mediterranean Twist
Homemade Dips with Olive Oil
To kick off your Friendsgiving feast, it’s good to have some handy snacks to go with dips. Breadsticks, nachos, and crostini are great for whetting the appetite, so why not rustle up some homemade dips to go with them? This Thanksgiving Sour Cream recipe is a cool and savory dip that will keep people coming back for more. Alternatively, if you’d like something that’s both gourmet and seasonal, how about trying your hand at this exquisite Pumpkin Pie Hummus? And, if you’d like to please the traditionalists, here’s a Homemade Hummus recipe that’s sure to go down a treat.
Mediterranean-Inspired Appetizer
If you’re lucky enough to have visited Spain and sampled the cuisine, you’ll more than likely have chanced upon Roasted Peppers in Olive Oil. A staple at celebrations all across Spain, this easy-to-make cold tapa is just the gourmet appetizer that will elevate your Friendsgiving spread.
Mouthwatering Main Dish
For the main course, we’ve got two enticing recipes that will bring balance to your feast. First up is a meaty dish with a seasonal twist. This Christmas Beef Wellington recipe tastes just as good as it looks. Made with tenderloin beef tucked into puff pastry, it’s a rich and satisfying dish that’s sure to please the meatlovers in attendance.
Wondering what to pair with the beef main? How about trying one of these Mashed Potato recipes with Extra Virgin Olive Oil? These enticing variations will give you plenty of food for thought.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert Ideas
No Friendsgiving celebration would be complete without a little dessert to end things on a sweet note. However, with all the feasting during the holiday season, guests will appreciate dessert options that are light and wholesome. Luckily, we’ve got two wonderful dessert recipes that fit the bill nicely. This Orange Olive Oil Cake is a light and zesty treat that complements post-meal coffee wonderfully. Serve it alongside this Thanksgiving Fruit Salad Recipe and you’ll have a healthy and balanced dessert to round off the evening.
Creating the Right Atmosphere for Friendsgiving
The magic of Friendsgiving lies in its warmth and togetherness. Setting the right tone can help turn a simple meal into a celebration that will live long in the memories of your guests. That’s why it’s important to think of comfort and coziness over perfection. Dim lighting, casual seating, and a mix of home-cooked dishes create a relaxed, welcoming vibe where everyone feels at home. With a few simple touches, you can greatly enhance everyone’s experience of Friendsgiving.
Tips for setting the scene:
- Set the mood with lighting: Use candles, fairy lights, or soft lamps for a warm, inviting glow.
- Create a playlist: Choose a mix of mellow tunes and feel-good favorites to keep energy flowing. Share the playlist with everyone beforehand and invite them to add their favorite songs. This will give your celebration a collaborative feel.
- Add personal touches: Use mismatched tableware, handwritten place cards, or simple greenery for charm.
- Encourage comfort: Offer blankets, floor cushions, or a cozy corner for after-dinner chats.
- Keep it easy: Opt for buffet-style dining or family-style serving to make the meal feel effortless and communal.
Friendsgiving – A Welcome Addition to the Holiday Season
However you choose to celebrate Friendsgiving, why not make it an annual event in your calendar? After all, it’s a wonderful excuse to gather your friends together over a home-cooked meal crafted with love.
Curious to know more about how you can incorporate olive oil into your diet? Make sure to check out the Italica Olive Oil Blog.
