PerkStreet Financial

After Halloween, and before Santa arrives with his sleigh bells on, Thanksgiving is that milestone holiday where we stuff ourselves silly and regrettably expand our waistlines.

Last Sunday night, Shoestring Magazine worked magic to create a festive spread at the PerkStreet Lounge, converting it from a daytime lounge to a sophisticated afternoon enclave brimming with decorative autumn leaves, shiny gold candles, pumpkins and fir cones.

Proving that highfalutin gourmet need not sweat the wallet, Shoestring curated a tasting menu that was frugal yet elegant, presented by Meghan Udell, Creative Director and Co-founder, who gave us the skinny on what our bellies could expect.

There was a spread of appetizers; rosemary pecans, cinnamon roasted almonds, pumpkin popcorn by Kukuruza (www.kukuruza.com) peppered amidst a cheeseboard of Jarlsberg, Camembert and Vermont Cheddar (www.dakinfarm.com).

Naturally Delicious provided the body of the menu opening up with a Butternut Squash Bisque sprinkled with fresh sage that tantalized taste buds and burst with deep satisfying flavor. Maple glazed turkey from Dakin Farms led the way with autumn vegetable stuffing as was the side of roasted parsnips, carrots and fall squashes. Finally the traditional Green Bean Casserole was crunchy in a light cream sauce, fresh mushrooms and garnished with crispy fried onions for a surprise finish. If that wasn’t enough Smolak Farms provided three kinds of pie; apple, pecan and an unforgettable pumpkin pie that was laced with natural maple and an overwhelming spice we were thankful for!

If you’re still planning your Thanksgiving dinner or just want these recipes, sign up for the Shoestring newsletter or download them here!

Photos courtesy of Wet Paint Photography.