From the FIORASPHEREGiving Thanks to Our FIORA® Family …

Spectacular Sides

When it comes to Thanksgiving, the bird is the word. But what about the unsung heroes that grace your plate in tandem with the turkey? We’re talking about all those glorious side dishes. Grab a FIORA® napkin because these beauties are gonna have your mouth watering in no time. Let’s dig in!

Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts

A savory, smoky side that goes from stovetop to tabletop in just three easy steps.

Yields: 6-8 servings Prep Time: 10 min. Total Time: 35 min.

Ingredients

• 6 strips of bacon
• 2 lb. Brussels sprouts
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• ⅛ tsp. ground cayenne pepper, plus more to taste
• ½ cup dried, unsweetened cranberries
• ¼ cup apple juice
• ¼ cup maple syrup

1.) In a large cast-iron skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes or until crispy. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon from the skillet and let it drain on a plate lined with FIORA® paper towels.

2.) Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, stirring well to coat with the bacon grease. Reduce the heat to medium and cook without stirring for 6 minutes or until the sprouts start to carmelize. Stir in the salt and cayenne pepper and continue to cook for an additional 6-8 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts are tender.

3.) Stir in the cranberries, apple juice, and maple syrup. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring to coat the Brussels sprouts. Add the cooked bacon and stir to combine. Serve immediately.

Extra Crunchy Au Gratin Potatoes

Just when you thought it couldn’t get easier, here’s an update on a classic that’s ready for rave reviews in just 2 easy steps. Yep! You read that correctly.

Yields: 12 servings Prep Time: 10 min. Total Time: 50-60 min.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 10-¾ oz.) can condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
• ½ tsp. salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 (30 oz.) package frozen, shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cups crushed Corn Flakes
• ¼ cup butter, melted

1.) Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, condensed soup, salt, and pepper; stir in the hash browns, cheese, and onion. Transfer the mixture to a greased 13x9-inch baking dish.

2.) In a small bowl, mix the crushed Corn Flakes and melted butter; sprinkle the crumble over the potato mixture. Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes or until it’s golden brown.

Prep Away for the Big Day!

If it’s your turn to host fall’s favorite feast day, have we got some handy dandy tips for you.

Make Room in the Fridge by tossing expired foods to clear the way for your make-ahead recipes and all those lovely leftovers. While you’re at it, sprinkle a little baking soda in warm water to clean and deodorize your shelves and drawers, so you’re fresh for the festivities!

Stock the Bathroom for your guests with plenty of FIORA® toilet paper and facial tissue. Make sure extra rolls are conveniently located, so family and friends don’t have to search, if they get stuck changing the TP roll. Just sayin’.

Declutter Like No Other around the entryway, living room, kitchen, or anywhere your guests will be gathering. You’ve got enough to do. So pop everything in a box and stash it somewhere that’s out of sight, until you have the time to decide what goes and what stays.

Hit Your Local Dollar Store and load up on to-go containers, so you can send your guests home with a little “leftover love” … YUM!

Count Your Blessings as you gather ‘round the table to share a fabulous meal and make memories with the ones closest to your heart.

Have a beautiful Thanksgiving! Be sure and stop by next month for our holiday baking and crafting edition. Until then, remember: Life is messy and fun, so lean on us to help clean up!