It's just not a southern holiday until somebody makes something with Jello.

Like Megan, I am blessed to have grown up with a grandmother who's an amazing cook. As my granny has gotten older, however, she hasn't been able to cook like she once did. She still quilts like a boss, but she's no longer able to cook.

This year, she asked for my help in making her cranberry salad. This concoction has three packs of Jello, and is the most Thanksgiving-y thing around. There aren't many of us who actually eat it, but it wouldn't be Thanksgiving without this dish on the table.

Nan's Cranberry Jello Salad
3 packs strawberry Jello (cherry works, too.)
1 cup sugar
3.5 cups hot water
1 Red Delicious apple, peeled and diced
Zest and juice of 1 orange
1 cup pecans
1 can whole berry cranberry sauce
1 can crushed pineapple (use the juice, too!)

Mix together Jello and sugar in large bowl. Pour in water and allow to thicken slightly. Stir in other ingredients and pour in flat-bottomed dish. Let chill overnight.

Boom. Thanksgiving in a dish.