Giving Thanks for Sides

It's time to give Thanks for all our blessings.

In a short few days we will all gather around tables of family and friends, to enjoy each other's company, good food and you can not forget football. It's this time of year we look for dishes that all will enjoy. Whether you are responsible for one dish or the whole meal, help is on the way. I will be sharing over the next few days great dishes that are easy to make, crowd pleasing dishes, that will make you a star at any Thanksgiving or Holiday gathering.

Let's start with the sides. I came across a recipe that made a nice rice dish...I've made some changes that moved it from a nice dish to a fantastic dish. I hope you enjoy it.

Confetti Rice

1 1/2 cup long grain white rice
2 chicken bullion cubes
2 1/2 cups water
1/2 cup white wine
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 Tablespoon dried parsley
Salt and Pepper to taste
4 Tablespoon butter - divided
1 small onion - finely chopped
1 large or 2 small carrots - finely chopped
2 stalks celery - finely chopped

Melt 2 tablespoon butter in skillet, add vegetables and saute until onions are translucent and carrots begin to soften.

In a casserole dish place rice, 2 Tablespoon butter, and seasonings. Add cooked vegetables, water and wine. Stir to mix. Bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour - or when all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Add more water as needed if you need to cook a little longer - adding water by Tablespoon at a time.

Serves 4 - 6.

To change this dish from a side to a main dish - add 1 cup of thawed mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, etc) and 1 cup of cooked chopped chicken when adding cooked vegetables. Increase water by 1/2 cup.