Thanksgiving is iconic. It’s the OG, the classic, the one that always delivers. The turkey, the stuffing, the sweet potato casserole—it’s all part of the tradition, and I’m here for it. But here’s the deal: I like to enjoy this meal with my family on the actual holiday.
I’ve fully embraced the idea of adding a fun sidebar celebration to the season—but I definitely don’t want a rinse-and-repeat of the same menu.
That’s why I’m throwing out an idea I think is way more fun and festive—Frenchgiving! It’s your Friendsgiving, but with a French twist. Think fondue, croissants, macarons, and all the lighter, celebratory vibes you want without the pre-holiday food overload.
Why Frenchgiving?
We all know Friendsgiving has become a thing, but it makes me crazy when people host it before Thanksgiving, serving all the same food we’ll have on the big day. Feels like cheating, right? So, I’ve found a solution: Frenchgiving. Think fondue, flaky croissants, and macaroons—everything you love about holiday entertaining without the pre-holiday food overload. This way, you get all the celebratory vibes you want, with none of the turkey fatigue.
Now, if you’re already bogged down with cooking for Thanksgiving, don’t worry—Frenchgiving can easily transition into Frenchmas for the Christmas season. Swap the heavy turkey spread for sparkling champagne, gooey fondue, and an effortlessly chic vibe that feels just as festive. It’s the perfect way to keep things fresh, without stressing over another full holiday meal.
The Menu
Beverages
- Kir Royale: A cocktail made with crème de cassis and champagne, perfect for toasting.
- French 75: A refreshing cocktail made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne.
- French Wine: A selection of red and white wines to complement the meal.
- Champagne: Sparkling champagne for toasting and celebrating.
Appetizers
- French Onion Soup: A warm, comforting soup topped with melted cheese and crusty French bread or flaky croissants.
- Fondue: Choose from cheese fondue served with a cheese board or meat and veggie fondue with an array of sauces.
- Charcuterie Board: Include a selection of French cheeses (like Brie, Camembert, Roquefort), cured meats (prosciutto, saucisson sec), olives, and pickles. (The cheese board and cheese fondue can be combined.)
Side Dishes
- Haricots Vert Salad: Thin French green beans sautéed with garlic and almonds.
- Au Gratin Potato Stacks: A creamy, cheesy potato dish baked to perfection.
Desserts
- Crepes with Nutella: Light, delicate crepes filled with indulgent Nutella.
- Profiteroles: Cream puffs filled with ice cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce.
- Chocolate Fondue: A delicious dip for fresh fruit or marshmallows.
- Macaron Tower: A colorful, elegant display of assorted macarons.
Menu Recipes
Fondue Station
For a fondue station with both cheese and meat, here’s a list of vegetables, meats, and cheese recommendations to create the perfect spread.
Vegetables for Fondue
- Broccoli florets (lightly blanched)
- Cauliflower florets (lightly blanched)
- Baby carrots (blanched or raw for crunch)
- Cherry tomatoes
- Mushrooms (button or cremini, raw or lightly sautéed)
- Zucchini (sliced thin or blanched)
- Asparagus spears (blanched or grilled)
- Bell peppers (cut into bite-sized strips)
- Radishes (raw for a nice crunchy bite)
- Potato cubes (blanched or roasted for a creamy dip)
Meats for Fondue
- Beef (filet mignon, sirloin, or ribeye—cut into bite-sized cubes)
- Chicken breast (cut into bite-sized cubes, marinated for extra flavor)
- Pork tenderloin (cut into cubes)
- Sausage (such as kielbasa, bratwurst, or andouille, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Shrimp (peeled and deveined, ready for dipping)
Cheese Recommendations for Fondue
For a classic cheese fondue, you’ll want to use a mix of two to three Swiss cheeses for depth of flavor, along with a touch of Gruyère or Emmental. Here are some great combinations:
- Gruyère (nutty, creamy, and slightly sweet)
- Emmental (mild and slightly nutty)
- Comté (a French version of Gruyère with a richer flavor)
- Fontina (for a creamier, meltier texture)
- Beaufort (a semi-firm cheese with a bit of sweetness, great for balance)
Pro tip: To make the fondue extra creamy and flavorful, you can add a splash of white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or dry Chardonnay) and a little bit of kirsch (a type of cherry brandy). If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute the wine with vegetable broth or apple cider.
Dipping Sauces to Complement
- Garlic aioli
- Honey mustard
- Chive and sour cream sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Balsamic glaze
- Herb-infused olive oil
With these veggie, meat, and cheese options, your fondue station will be a hit. Each element brings different textures and flavors, making the experience interactive and indulgent. Enjoy!
Decor Ideas for Frenchgiving or Frenchmas Fête
Elevate the ambiance of your Frenchgiving or Frenchmas Fête with French-inspired decor. Here are some ideas to make your gathering feel extra special:
- Soup Tureen as a Centerpiece
- A classic French soup tureen adds an elegant, old-world charm to your table. Whether it’s filled with French onion soup or just for show, it’s the perfect centerpiece.
- French Table Linens
- Opt for a soft linen tablecloth in neutral tones or subtle French patterns. Add folded napkins with a sprig of lavender or rosemary for a fresh, fragrant touch.
- French-inspired Candles & Lighting
- Set the mood with vintage-style candlesticks, elegant tapered candles, or cafe lights draped across the dining area. The low glow of flickering candles creates a cozy, intimate ambiance.
- Fresh Flowers & Greenery
- Fresh lavender, soft roses or peonies, and fragrant herbs like thyme or rosemary make for simple yet stunning table accents.
- French-style Dinnerware & Glassware
- Use delicate French porcelain plates and crystal wine glasses for a chic, refined look. Add a glass cloche to cover appetizers or desserts for an elegant touch.
- Table Settings with Small French Touches
- Create simple, elegant place cards with handwritten names on parchment or kraft paper. Add a little French flair with a ribbon or sprig of lavender. Serve mini baguettes or vintage silverware to complete the look.
- Bistro Vibes
- If you can, bring in bistro-style chairs or even the iconic French café chairs to give your party that Parisian feel. You can also group wine bottles in rustic crates for a French vineyard vibe.
- Ambiance with Music
- Set the mood with a French playlist—think modern French jazz, or even a classic accordion sound. Small French-inspired accents like mini Eiffel Towers or vintage Parisian postcards can complete the atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re adding a Frenchgiving sidebar to your Thanksgiving or switching things up for Frenchmas during the Christmas season, these French-inspired celebrations are the perfect hosting opportunity.
It’s all about celebrating in style—without repeating the same spread and without the holiday meal burnout. So go ahead, mix it up, have some fun, and create unforgettable memories with a Frenchgiving or Frenchmas this year. You’ll get all the joy, all the flavor, and none of the hassle. Bon appétit!
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