These illustrations can be used by themselves or with this column or other articles on holiday foods. NDSU Extension Service Ben Franklin nominated the wild turkey to be our national bird. It certainly wouldn't be our national symbol, stuffed and served with gravy. The wild turkey served as the centerpiece of the famous harvest meal that the Pilgrims and Native Americans shared in 1620. After domestication in Europe, the turkey returned to the United States plumper and more tender.
Roasted turkey remains a popular holiday food.
Astronauts Neil Armstrong and Edwin Aldrin ate an all-American meal of turkey and all the trimmings on the moon, although not on a platter served by Grandma. Most turkeys that serve as holiday centerpieces are females, or hens. Here's a tasty soup recipe your family will gobble up. Pair it with a side salad and some whole wheat bread for a light follow-up meal to the original feast. After all, the turkey isn't the only thing that ends up stuffed on Thanksgiving.