Holy slacker, it’s been a while since we’ve chatted! It’s been a crazy week and a half that unfortunately included a back injury. I subsequently dubbed last week the week of eating everything in site, which makes this week the week of getting back on track. I must be crazy thinking now is a good time to plan on getting back on track with Thanksgiving being Thursday, but hey, no time like the present, right?!
And speaking of Thanksgiving, as the resident “beer snobs” of the family, Nathan and I are always asked for beer pairings. We’ve been doing our Thanksgiving beer pairing research and I’m happy to share with you our top 5 finds! But first.. the eats.
[Breakfast]
Back to basics. My Tone It Up pumpkin protein pancake with banana slices and peanut fluff [2 tbsp peanut flour*, 1 packet stevia, & water to reach desired consistency]
[Lunch]
Kale salad with spaghetti squash, lots of veggies, and Powercakes Tahini Nooch sauce. This has been my favorite go-to dressing as of late. It’s packed with tons of protein and flavor.. think garlicky kale from Whole Foods. YUM!
[Dinner]
Roasted salmon with honey almond spaghetti squash. Simple but full of flavor!
[Snacks]
Grapefruit. (Not pictured)
Green Protein Piña Colada.. a Greeña Colada, if you will 😉
Quick recipe! Protein Greeña Colada
– 1 Premier Protein vanilla shake
– 1/2 frozen banana
– 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup spinach
– 2-4 ice cubes
Throw everything in your blender and froth up! This baby packs a 32g protein punch! Perfect for your workout days.
Apple and peanut fluff*.
*Peanut flour can be found on iHerb.com. Use code ZAF482 to receive $5 off of your first order.
Thanksgiving Brews
When pairing beverages with food, most people immediately consider wine. Beer is often an afterthought, but not in our house! I’ve been researching the top beers to pair with a traditional Thanksgiving dinner and I think I’ve found the list that’ll make even your pickiest beer-drinker happy!
- Ayinger Oktober Fest-Märzen
Ayinger Oktoberfest-Marzen
This is an easy-drinking, copper-colored beer that isn’t overpowering. It will compliment everything on your table from sweet potatoes to a hearty sausage stuffing, with its notes of caramel and smooth, subtle hops. At 5.8% ABV, this will be an all-around crowd-pleaser.
Can’t find Ayinger? Look for Paulaner or Sam Adams!
- Sierra Nevada Pale Ale
Sierra Nevada Pale Ale
If you’re looking for a beer with a little more punch to stand up to your stuffing, SNPA is the way to go. A touch of citrus flavor and a slightly bitter, but balanced, taste provides a crisp, clean finish.
Can’t find Sierra Nevada? Look for Flying Dog or Lagunitas!
- Sierra Nevada Kellerweis
Sierra Nevada Kellerweis
A beer that’s always found in our house, Kellerweis will satisfy any drinker’s taste. This fresh, crisp beer is a great way to start the evening paired with a creamy goat cheese or brie (which should definitely be on any list of appetizers!) It’s also the perfect way to end the night; with its subtle notes of banana and clove, you have the perfect companion to spiced desserts like pumpkin pie.
Can’t find Sierra Nevada? Look for Paulaner or Victory!
- Ommegang Abbey Ale
Ommegang Abbey Ale
You can’t go wrong with a Belgian-style beer; especially if you’re talking Ommegang Abbey Dubbel. Another beer that can stand up to the lighter dishes as well as heavier, this well-balanced beer with notes of fruits and molasses will pack a punch at 8.2% ABV.
Can’t find Ommegang? Look for New Belgium or Chimay!
- Rogue Chocolate Stout
Rogue Chocolate Stout
For those guests looking to go to the dark side, this chocolate stout is the way to go! It’s a silky, smooth beer with notes of chocolate and espresso. It is a perfect compliment to dessert, but can also stand up to the heavier dishes.
Can’t find Rogue? Look for Evolution or Sam Adams!
Food for Thought
What is your favorite part of Thanksgiving? Do you prefer beer or wine paired with your dinner? What is your favorite beer?
Barr & Table 
Wow. I love the looks of all of your eats! Protein pancakes are amazing, especially when you add pumpkin. I just had kale for lunch today, but the addition of spaghetti squash would have made it even better!
My favorite part of Thanksgiving is getting to sit down with my dad’s side of the family who I rarely get to see. They always have such interesting stories to tell!
I’m currently obsessed with all squash, but especially spaghetti squash! I love adding it to everything.
Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy the stories 🙂
Lovingg the beer pairings! Now I seriously need to think about my Thanksgiving beer choices…. leaning towards the Sierra Nevada Kellerweis. Honestly, wasn’t even aware that Sierra Nevada brewed more than their Pale Ale. Thanks for the suggestions!
Yes, get the Kellerweis! Sierra Nevada is a great brewery and you really can’t go wrong with the Kellerweis. It’s packed with flavor but it’s light enough that everyone will enjoy it.
Let me know what you end up with! Happy Thanksgiving!