While Thanksgiving isn’t something we celebrate here in the UK, its younger, more easy-going cousin Friendsgiving has quietly made its way across the Atlantic. Think of it as a relaxed, bring-a-dish dinner party with the people you’ve chosen as family — the perfect excuse to gather for good food and even better company.
And because no celebration is complete without something delicious on the table, we’ve rounded up a few recipes and ideas to help you host a Friendsgiving feast with a decidedly Mediterranean twist, all made richer with La Española olive oils.
A Centrepiece Worth Sharing
If you’ve ever toyed with the idea of roasting a turkey but never quite taken the plunge, Friendsgiving is the perfect low-pressure trial run. Our Roasted Turkey with Apples recipe is wonderfully straightforward and gets its golden, aromatic finish thanks to a generous basting of La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Serve it to your guests and you’ll give them a taste of a classic roast turkey dish, with a little Spanish flair for good measure.
Seasonal Sides to Bring Warmth to the Table
No autumn gathering feels complete without a few comforting sides. Two dishes that always go down a treat:
- Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Bacon – earthy, nutty, savoury, and very much in tune with the season.
- Sautéed Green Beans – simple, vibrant and full of flavour.
They’re the sort of sides that disappear quickly, especially when cooked in good olive oil.
CROWD-PLEASING Dishes to Share
Friendsgiving leans informal, which makes it the perfect scenario for dishes you can slice, pick up, and share around the table.
If you’ve spent any time in Spain, you’ll know that tortilla de patatas is the unsung hero of nearly every gathering. Our Rustic Spanish Omelette comes together in half an hour and is brilliant served in wedges with cocktail sticks — unfussy, genuinely delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.
A bright, flavour-packed salad also earns its place on the table. Our Griddled Lemon with Rosemary Chicken and Butterbean Salad combines beans, tomatoes, French beans, and tender griddled chicken — all brought to life with La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil. It’s one of those dishes that looks modest but ends up being the unexpected hit.
Chef’s tip: Never underestimate the power of fresh bread. Better yet, have a go at our Braided Pesto Bread for something extra special.
A Seafood Main to Shake Things Up
If you’d prefer not to centre your Friendsgiving meal around meat, try our Tuna Steaks with White Beans and Salsa Verde. With tomatoes, olives, anchovies, capers, herbs, and plenty of olive oil, it’s a dish that brings a burst of Mediterranean sunshine to even the chilliest November evening.
End on Something Sweet
Finish on a warming note with our Traditional Pecan Pie — an American classic made lighter by swapping butter for La Española Olive Oil. It’s indulgent, beautifully textured, and the perfect way to round off your meal.
Quick Tips for Hosting a UK Friendsgiving
- Plan the menu early – especially if guests are bringing dishes.
- Create a self-serve station – makes things feel relaxed and social.
- Set the mood – warm lighting and good music go a long way.
- Make a signature drink – spiced apple cider or a cranberry spritz works wonders.
- Share a gratitude moment – it doesn’t have to be serious; even simple joys count.
- Set up a photo corner – autumn leaves, fairy lights, or just a tidy bookshelf will do.
Celebrate Friendship, Flavour, and the Joy of Sharing
At its heart, Friendsgiving is simply about appreciating the people who make our lives richer. And with La Española olive oil adding depth and authenticity to every recipe, you’re well on your way to a meal that feels celebratory, generous, and full of flavour.
Gather the people you love, cook with intention, and enjoy every moment around the table.
For more Mediterranean-inspired recipes and tips, explore the rest of our blog.
Friendsgiving FAQs:
What is Friendsgiving?
Friendsgiving is a modern, laid-back take on a festive get-together — think of it as a cosy dinner with the friends you consider family. The idea first took off in the United States in the late 2000s, but has since found its way into other countries thanks to social media and our shared love of good food. At its heart, Friendsgiving is about creating your own traditions, cooking dishes you love, and celebrating the people who make life brighter.
When is Friendsgiving?
There are no strict rules. Many people choose to host it in November, simply because it feels like the start of the winter gathering season. Others prefer early December, when diaries begin to fill and a relaxed meal with friends is just what everyone needs. Think of it as a casual, potluck-style occasion where the emphasis is more on togetherness than tradition.
What do people eat at Friendsgiving?
That depends entirely on the hosts — and that’s the beauty of it. Some people invite guests to bring a dish, keeping things easy and communal. Others take it as an opportunity to try new recipes or show off a favourite homemade classic. You might even find a few dishes inspired by American Thanksgiving traditions, but there’s no need to stick to any particular theme.
However you choose to celebrate, we’ve gathered plenty of recipes to inspire your spread — all showcasing the rich, authentic flavour of La Española olive oil.