In The Kitchen With Kamilah | Thanksgiving Table Decor & Mela's Mac and Cheese Recipe!

This is is the season of Gathering and Gratitude. Many of us are having a "low key" Thanksgiving. Planning a meal over zoom with family, a small intimate meal with a partner or roommate, or ordering a Turkey (or Tofurkey) and making small dishes.  Take the time to set your own table this season. 

Create an impact table with all items from everyday uses in your home. I recently purchased a rolling home office desk. I plan on rolling the desk into the living room to use as my dining room table. Accenting the table with linen placemats and a cute napkin to coordinate with your table decor adds impact. 

I purchased the small pumpkins below at my local market and utilized cinnamon sticks that I had in my kitchen to create a centerpiece. You can also create a small centerpiece on each place setting. Especially if you are ordering in. You can transfer the food on to a platter and you are all set!

Linens make a huge impact on a table. There are so many colors you can incorporate. Don't shy away from using everyday items min your kitchen as napkin rings. You can use a ribbon, twine, even a cute scarf. You are creating an atmosphere and table setting that is uniquely you. 

I am so excited to share my  Mela's Mac and Cheese recipe. I make this dish every year during the holidays. It is totally OK to substitute vegetable broth or vegan cheese. I have also made the roux with a milk substitute at times. I hope you enjoy the recipe. Remember to have fun and enjoy. At Mela Lifestyle we celebrate, we're all about empowering people to celebrate home as a place to step into one's own and cultivate a sense of community. We may gather in different wats this year. However, we can always experience a sense of home wherever we are. So light a candle, place a beautiful linen napkin on your lap, and enjoy!

WHITE SAUCE

Melt butter in large skillet over medium-low heat. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking, and stirring for 2 to 3 minutes. 

Add milk and broth. Simmer until thickened and liquid has evaporated, 6 to 8 minutes. 

Season to taste with nutmeg, cayenne, mustard, salt and pepper.

MACARONI

Combine Cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir 3/4 of cheese into White Sauce.