Tips to plan an eclectic holiday menu

Though family traditions are part of what makes the holidays such a special time of year, hosts have some wiggle room when welcoming loved ones into their homes.

If tradition governs how holiday hosts celebrate the season with their families, they may find some flexibility in the kitchen. This Thankgiving, holiday hosts can consider these ways to make their holiday menus a little more eclectic and unpredictable.

• Embrace local ingredients. Locally sourced foods have a tendency to taste more fresh than imported alternatives, which is reason enough to incorporate them into holiday menus. In addition, relying on locally sourced foods when preparing holiday meals can be a great way to introduce new dishes to a holiday dinner table. Guests may be impressed by a new flavor profile, and they'll surely be happy to learn they're supporting local businesses during a time of year when shopping local has gained greater popularity.

• Offer a new twist on old favorites. Celebrants, including hosts, have come to expect certain foods during the holiday season. For instance, some may shudder at the thought of a Thanksgiving dinner table without turkey. Though holiday season staples may need to make an appearance at dinnertime, hosts can offer a new twist on some old favorites. In lieu of roasting a turkey this year, offer a deep-fried alternative. Such a twist produces an entirely different flavor profile. When it comes time to serve dessert, offer apple crumb pie in place of traditional apple pie. Fall is peak apple-picking season, so come the holiday season hosts and guests may be happy to enjoy a unique twist on this beloved dessert.

The sweet potato casserole recipe on this page is another great example of a way to make a Thanksgiving staple into something completely new for guests.

• Incorporate seasonal ingredients. Another way to ensure freshness has a place at your holiday dinner table is to emphasize seasonal ingredients. Such items are those that are at their most fresh in late fall and early winter, and which foods you choose may depend on where you live, particularly if you're focused on providing locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Some simple tweaks to existing recipes can provide an entirely new flavor profile that will impress guests and leave them asking for another helping.

• Prepare an ethnic dish. Traditional holiday entrées like turkey and rib roast are not necessarily associated with any particular ethnic group or region of the world. Hosts who want to incorporate their heritage into holiday cooking, or simply include food from a favorite country they've visited or hope to visit, can prepare an ethnic dish as an appetizer, entrée or dessert.

This unexpected addition to the menu can prompt engaging discussions and can serve as a great way for hosts to introduce their loved ones to a dish or style of cuisine they love.

German dishes and desserts are popular in many area homes over the holidays. One dessert that's simple to make and will add an ethnic twist to the sweets table is kuchen bars. Kuchen (prnounced "koo-ken" or "koo-gen") is another word for German cake. The bars use the same custard filling as the cake and are often complemented with the chef's choice of seasonal fruit.

Tradition is a big part of the holiday season. This season, hosts can start a new tradition by taking steps to prepare a more eclectic menu for guests.