Weekly Obsessions 11.15.13

Sometimes the best things in life take a little work. Like finding low-sodium cheese and salt-free soup stocks and mini phyllo dough cups with only 30mg of sodium per serving. Those things.

But thanks to the interweb getting the best things don’t have to take a lot of time or energy. Just a little planning. And that’s what I want to talk about today. I want to make sure you have everything you need for your Thanksgiving feast, no matter what you plan on making. And enough time to order them. So let’s begin, shall we?

SOUPY SPUDS AND STUFFING: Want more flavor in your side dishes? Swap in Nona Lim low-sodium soups for any recipe that calls for broth or stock. Baste that turkey in a little French Onion (65mg per serving). Or mix a cup of Zucchini (95mg per serving) or Carrot Ginger (120mg per serving) into your mashed potatoes for a new holiday twist. Big taste, little work.

SAY CHEESE: If your favorite casserole calls for something stringy or creamy, just remember you’re not out of luck. Look for Helluva Good Cheddar Cheese (25mg per oz), Primo Taglio Lacey Swiss (35mg per slice and found at most Safeways), Lucerne No-Salt-Added Cottage Cheese (45mg for 1/2 cup and also at most Safeways); Boar’s Head Lacey Swiss (35mg) and Boar’s Head No-Salt-Added Swiss.

THE BIRD: Remember, you’ll want to purchase a brine-free turkey (and then use these tips to infuse it with flavor). Or skip the turkey and get a guinnea hen. Or make some brisket.

TOOL KIT: Make sure you have these things. Cleaned and ready.

SMALL BITES: Amuse your bouche (and the bouches of your guests) with these mini phyllo dough cups. Obsessed.

GET TECH: Get someone else to do the running around for you. And let Forage pick up your ingredients. If you live in the Bay Area, this service is going to change your life. Just hit the Forage button on the bottom of the following fall-inspired recipes: Pumpkin Quesadilla, Green Bean Casserole, Quinoa Meatballs, Creamy Sweets and Grits. Then, uncheck any items you already have in your pantry and let the Forage team shop for the ingredients at a local Whole Foods, always picking the smallest amount needed. And finally, get everything you need delivered within two hours. How’s that for a holiday miracle?