Around the (Thanksgiving) Table with Emily June

Whether you're enjoying the crisp embrace of autumn where you are, or perhaps you find yourself in Houston, Texas, where the weather hasn't quite caught onto the fact that the fall season is here, no matter the temperature outside you do not need to step outside to immerse yourself in the spirit of this season. As fall unfurls, it signals that the holiday season is just around the corner, and it's possible that you'll be hosting the festivities this year. In this June Journal, I extend a warm invitation to join me at my table, where we'll delve into the art of table settings and explore what we, here at Emily June Designs, have prepared for your Thanksgiving feast. From mouthwatering recipes to delightful cocktails for your guests or to bring to the celebration, we have you covered.

Setting the Thanksgiving Table: Creating Memorable

Moments and Ease

I completely understand that when you're preparing a Thanksgiving feast, there might be bigger concerns on your plate (or in the oven) than the color scheme of your table. However, there's something truly magical about sitting down to a meal at a table thoughtfully set for the occasion. It's more than just aesthetics; it's an open invitation to create cherished memories and engage in meaningful conversations with friends and family.

Whether this year marks your first time hosting Thanksgiving or it's a time-honored tradition in your family, the hosting jitters can still appear. There's the deep cleaning of the house, the meticulous attention to detail in the kitchen to ensure that everything is cooked to the perfect temperature, and the anticipation of the guests' arrival. It's a whirlwind of activity, but it's also an opportunity to make your guests feel truly special and create an atmosphere where everyone can relax and savor the moment. 

To make it easier for you, my team and I have curated a selection of our favorite table-setting pieces for the fall season. Take a look below for inspiration!

Photo by: @Kateberryberry

Fig and Cheese Toast

Now that we have the table set, it's time to head into the kitchen and whip up something truly delightful. For this part of our fall celebration, I'm excited to share one of my favorite recipes, courtesy of the talented Ina Garten. Get ready to savor the flavors of fall with her Fig and Cheese Toast.

Photo by Quentin Bacon.

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf country bread (1 lb./500 g), halved and sliced crosswise 3/8 inch (1 cm) thick

  • 1 jar (8 1/2 oz./265 g) good fig spread, such as Dalmatia (see note)

  • 8 oz. (250 g) plain creamy cheese, such as goat cheese or cream cheese

  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

  • 2 ripe fresh figs, halved and thinly sliced lengthwise

  • Syrupy balsamic vinegar

  • Microgreens

Directions

  • Toast the bread in a toaster until it's lightly golden. While the bread is still warm, generously spread the fig spread on each slice, making sure to cover it entirely.

  • Place the creamy cheese of your choice in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in the microwave for 30 to 45 seconds, or until it's creamy and spreadable. Carefully spread a layer of the cheese over the fig spread, leaving the edges of the fig spread visible.

  • Now, it's time to top the toasts with fresh fig slices. Arrange a few fig slices on each toast and sprinkle them lightly with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.

  • For a burst of extra flavor, lightly drizzle each piece with syrupy balsamic vinegar.

  • Finally, add a touch of elegance to your toasts by topping them with a few microgreens.

  • Serve these delectable Fig and Cheese Toasts at room temperature, and get ready to impress your guests with a delightful appetizer. This recipe serves 6 to 8, making it perfect for a small gathering or a larger family feast.

Fall Cocktail Recipe: Cranberry Martini

Now that we have the table set, it's time to head into the kitchen and whip up something truly delightful. For this part of our fall celebration, I'm excited to share one of my favorite recipes, courtesy of the talented Ina Garten. Get ready to savor the flavors of fall with her Fig and Cheese Toast.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz vodka

  • 1 oz cranberry juice

  • 1/2 oz triple sec or orange liqueur

  • 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice

  • ice

  • fresh cranberries or a twist of lime for garnish (optional)

Directions

  • Begin by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. This step ensures your Cranberry Martini will be perfectly chilled.

  • Add 2 oz of vodka, 1 oz of cranberry juice, 1/2 oz of triple sec or orange liqueur, and 1/2 oz of lime juice to the shaker.

  • Secure the lid on the shaker and give it a good 15-20 second shake. This shaking will ensure that the flavors are well mixed and that the cocktail is ice-cold.

  • Strain the Cranberry Martini into a chilled martini glass.

  • For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, you can garnish your martini with a few fresh cranberries or a twist of lime.

  • Cheers to the season and enjoy your cranberry Martini!

Emily Spanos