I don’t think there’s a single week on the calendar that is more food-focused than the one we’re approaching. With that in mind, I’ve put together the only resource you’ll need for putting together a delicious, decadent holiday. As any busy mom knows, being prepared is everything when it comes to the holidays, so grab a notebook and pen – or your iPhone if you’re more modern than me – and make what is hopefully the last of your lists.
For starters, if you are hosting Christmas this year you definitely want to start with our holiday entertaining hacks article. I share 28 personal and professional (I was a caterer for nearly 10 years) sanity-saving tips for entertaining with ease, and practically insist you delegate some of the work to your family members and make pitchers of cocktails. Doesn’t sound too hard, does it?
I also suggest reviewing these tips for feeding a crowd. If you’re wondering how much wine to buy or how many pounds of potatoes to make, this article covers it all.
Speaking of potatoes, my make-ahead mashed potatoes are foolproof and can be prepped today. For real! I’m making them this Friday and sticking them in the fridge until Monday – if you must make a batch yourself can I suggest you do the same?
Are you wondering how to make the magic of Christmas morning last a little longer? Here are some ideas I’ve put into practice with my big kids.
If you’re wondering what to make for Christmas morning breakfast (hint: a DIY anything bar), we’ve got you covered.
Lastly, if you’re still looking for menu inspiration or simple recipes you can print off and execute with little effort, you’ve come to the right place. Divided by occasion – weekend open house/cocktail party, main holiday meal, dessert duty – we’ve got your back.
For a Weekend Open House or Cocktail Party:
- Maple and Citrus-Glazed Ham (serve with biscuits and/or buns, assorted mustards and chutneys)
- Turkey and Mashed Potato Cupcakes (make mini versions and pass around as hot hors d’oeuvres)
- Milk and Cookie Mocktails
- Double Chocolate Candy Cane Bark
- Cauliflower and Potato Latkes (mini versions would make a great appetizer)
For a Main Holiday Meal:
- Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
- Colourful Christmas Salad
- Winter Citrus Quinoa Salad
- Ruby Red Holiday Salad
- Slow Cooked Pot Roast
For a Sweet Finish:
- S’mores Fudge
- Chocolate Dipped Clementines with Pistachio Sprinkles
- Vanilla and Cinnamon Poached Pears
- Jam Thumbprint Cookies
- Chocolate Pavlova with Whipped Cream and Pomegranates
- Simple Chocolate Yule Log
Wishing you the happiest of holidays! May your hearts and home be filled with love, laughter, light and lots of good food.
Tagged under: Christmas,holidays,recipes,entertaining,holidays 2017
Category: christmas