An answer to the question “How much do I serve?”

Holidays meals are wonderful occasions when family and friends come together to share festive foods and celebrate. Since U.S. Thanksgiving is less than a month away, with the other major holidays not far behind, it’s time to start contemplating those delicious meals. One of the major components to planning is knowing how much food to make for your crowd. Whether you’re feeding five or 15, Whole Foods has a guide to help you plan quantities for Thanksgiving, although it can be applied to all of your holiday gatherings.

Turkey’s on the table in many gatherings, and if you’re going to roast, deep-fry, or smoke a turkey this year, plan on 1.25 pounds (including bones) per person. Mashed potatoes should weigh in at 6 ounces per person (about 3/4 cup), with other veggies slightly less (of course if Uncle Albert loves your sweet potato casserole, make sure to take that into account).

Head over to the Whole Foods website to learn more, including the all-important quantities for dessert and wine.

Photo of Roast heritage turkey with bacon-herb butter and cider gravy from indexed magazine Bon Appétit