WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind., Nov. 21 (UPI) -- A U.S. nutritionist says Thanksgiving should be more Martha Stewart and less Normal Rockwell; i.e., take an elegant approach versus a multiple food approach.
Olivia Bennett Wood, a Purdue University foods and nutrition expert, says holiday meals don't need to include tables laden with different foods -- a touch of elegance can go a long way in feeding the eyes, but the stomach has a turn.
An elegant approach can include:
-- Spending the money normally used for multiple food items to set an elegant table.
-- Splurging for fresh flowers and a good bottle of wine.
-- Bringing out the best dishes and lighting the candles.
-- Planning one special entree, one colorful vegetable and one starchy one, a beautiful fresh salad with perhaps a vinaigrette instead of a creamy dressing, fresh homemade rolls and an elegant dessert.
-- Dressing up the vegetables. Toss toasted walnuts or pecans on the green vegetable.
-- Serving the dessert later after a nice walk.
