Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and here at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, the holiday spirit is in full swing. We recently sat down with Sumer Smith, our Director of Food Service, to talk about what makes this season so special—and how you can bring a little bit of Shady Maple magic to your own table.
The Heart of the Holiday
For Sumer, Thanksgiving is all about tradition and comfort. From the iconic turkey to Pennsylvania Dutch favorites like potato filling and scalloped pineapple, these dishes aren’t just food—they’re memories. “A lot of people come in and say it reminds them of going to their grandma’s house,” Sumer shared. That nostalgia is what drives our passion for authentic recipes passed down from our founders, Marvin and Miriam.
Sumer’s Stress-Free Thanksgiving Tips
Cooking for a crowd can feel overwhelming, but Sumer has learned a few tricks over her 19 years at Shady Maple:
Prep the Turkey the Night Before
Don’t wait until Thanksgiving morning! Sumer seasons her turkey with fresh herbs, butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil—tucked under the skin for maximum flavor. “Let it sit overnight so the flavors soak in,” she says.
Use an Electric Roaster
Free up your oven for side dishes by roasting the turkey in an electric roaster. It’s efficient and keeps the kitchen less chaotic.
Disposable Pans Are a Must
“Easy cleanup is everything,” Sumer laughs. Stock up on disposable pans so you can spend more time with family and less time scrubbing dishes.
Make Sides Ahead of Time
Potato filling, sweet potato casserole, and cranberry relish can all be prepped the day before. “Anything you can do ahead will make the day so much smoother.”
Don’t Forget the Little Touches
Fresh herbs, a splash of olive oil, and even prepping garnishes ahead of time can elevate your meal without adding stress.
Dutch-Inspired Staples
Thanksgiving in Lancaster County has a unique twist thanks to Pennsylvania Dutch influence. Potato filling—a savory blend of bread, mashed potatoes, celery, and herbs—is a must-have. Sweet potato casserole, scalloped corn, and homemade cranberry relish also grace many tables. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try scalloped pineapple, a sweet bread pudding that’s a family favorite.
Seasonal Specials You’ll Love
While our buffet offers holiday classics year-round, fall brings some extra treats: pumpkin ice cream, pumpkin pancakes, and even pumpkin milkshakes. Pair a slice of pumpkin pie with soft-serve pumpkin ice cream for the ultimate seasonal indulgence.
Why It Matters
Food isn’t just sustenance—it’s a connection to the past. Whether it’s dried corn simmered for hours or Harvard beets with their sweet-tangy glaze, these dishes transport us to cherished family gatherings. At Shady Maple, we’re proud to keep those traditions alive.
Ready to make this Thanksgiving unforgettable? Visit Shady Maple Smorgasbord for a feast that feels like home—or bring a taste of Lancaster County to your own table with our catering options. From pounds of turkey and filling to homemade cranberry relish, we’ve got everything you need for a stress-free holiday. Learn more about Thanksgiving at Shady Maple Smorgasbord
