While we don’t traditionally celebrate Thanksgiving here in Tuscany, the holiday has quietly woven itself into late November thanks to American friends, travellers, and expats. And since Olivia is here with us this year, I told you earlier that I’d be hosting a full Thanksgiving dinner.
And if we’re doing it, we’re doing it properly—which means we need to dive into what this iconic American feast is really about. Because Thanksgiving is, at its heart, a joyful celebration of food, gratitude, and gathering around a table overflowing with flavours.
What Is Thanksgiving, Exactly?
Thanksgiving is celebrated every year on the fourth Thursday of November, right after the autumn harvest season. Many people also take the Friday off—not only because of the so-called “food coma,” though that would make sense—but because this long weekend is one of the most important family holidays in the U.S.
It’s all about slowing down, reconnecting, and making the most of a few precious days together.
The Star of the Feast: Turkey (a.k.a. Why It’s Called Turkey Day)
If one dish represents Thanksgiving, it’s undeniably the turkey. Most families live by the rule: “the bigger, the better.” A 6–7 kg bird is completely normal.
And of course, I couldn’t have sourced the turkey from anyone other than my trusted butcher, Luca Menoni, who always finds the absolute best quality meats. If there’s a turkey to be had in Tuscany, Luca is the one who makes it happen.
It’s typically filled with a bread-based stuffing, roasted until the skin turns crisp and golden, and proudly served whole at the centre of the table. Hence the nickname: Turkey Day.
Classic Side Dishes of a Traditional American Thanksgiving
The American Thanksgiving table is rich but surprisingly simple. These are the essentials:
- Creamy mashed potatoes (sometimes made with sweet potatoes)
- Vegetables – usually green beans or glazed carrots
- Cranberry sauce – the sweet-tart topping that pairs beautifully with turkey
And then comes dessert…
Desserts: Pumpkin Season Meets American Tradition
Pie is one of America’s most beloved desserts year-round, so naturally it takes centre stage on Thanksgiving too. Since the holiday falls in peak pumpkin season, most families bake a classic pumpkin pie: smooth, spiced, and full of autumn warmth.
And Now… the Star of My Own Tuscan Thanksgiving Menu
To bring the true flavours of Thanksgiving to our Tuscan table tonight, here’s the recipe for my beautifully simple, aromatic and perfect roasted turkey.
Perfect Roasted Turkey (Serves 10–12)
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (6–7 kg)
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 sprigs rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Remove the turkey’s neck and giblets (save them for stock or gravy).
- Rinse the turkey thoroughly inside and out, then pat completely dry.
- Trim any excess skin or fat.
- Season generously with salt and pepper, drizzle with olive oil, and rub everything well into the skin.
- Place the rosemary sprigs inside the cavity and tie the legs with kitchen twine.
- Transfer the turkey to a roasting pan and place it on the lowest rack of the oven.
- Roast for 2 hours, then increase the temperature to 190°C (375°F) for 10–15 minutes to crisp and brown the skin.
Baste occasionally with butter or the pan juices. - The ideal internal temperature is 75°C (165°F).
- Remove from the oven, tent with foil, and let rest for 20–30 minutes.
- Slice and serve.
Pro Tips for the Juiciest Turkey
- Don’t discard the pan drippings—they’re gold for gravy or sauces.
- Try Olivia Bennett’s trick: roast the turkey on a bed of vegetables (carrots, onions, celery, garlic). They soak up the flavours and become the perfect side.
- For clean, professional carving:
- slice down the centre,
- remove the breasts along the bone,
- and cut them diagonally.
There’s something magical about blending cultures—celebrating an American holiday in the heart of Tuscany, with Mediterranean ingredients and a cosy November atmosphere.
I hope this little Thanksgiving guide brings a touch of American warmth to your Italian autumn—and maybe even inspires your own mini Turkey Day.