The holidays are upon us! For most people, this season is synonymous with joy, laughter, togetherness and loved ones. It can also be a time that reminds us of stress, financial strain, and hustle and bustle.
This year, avoid the stress of entertaining by planning your holiday menu in advance. We’ve scoured the internet in search of recipes that offer the optimal combination of taste, time to prepare, and skill level required. Below, we offer five quick and easy recipes that will keep you cool and collected, and leave your guests thinking you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
Appetizer:
Walnut Pepper Spread from FoodNetwork.com
Some people save their appetite for dinner, and others like to graze beforehand. This walnut pepper spread is satisfying, but not too filling. Serve with veggies, crackers, or bread. The best part? You can set it out and forget about it. There’s no need to warm, stir, or otherwise check on.
Main Course:
Emeril Lagasse’s Fried Turkey Recipe from FoodNetwork.com
Many people go to their holiday parties with the expectation of filling their bellies to the brim. You can put a tasty twist on your holiday bird with this fried turkey recipe from the cooking connoisseur himself, Emeril Lagasse. Fried turkey seals in the juices and cooks the bird quickly. You can cut some of the calories in this dish by frying the turkey in an oil-less turkey fryer instead (be sure to read our turkey fryer safety tips.)
Side Dish:
Quinoa salad with Oranges, Beets & Pomegranate from EatingWell.com
If your plan is to roast a ham or fry a turkey, this side dish makes the perfect addition. Not only is this salad a beautiful and festive pairing for any protein, it also contains nutrition rich ingredients like quinoa and beets.
Dessert:
Homemade Chocolate chip cookies from AllRecipes.com
Nothing says “home for the holidays” like the sweet smell of homemade cookies billowing through the air. Chocolate chip is always a crowd-pleaser, and is hassle-free variety to make. Combine the ingredients in a bowl, plop on baking sheet, and set the timer. Be sure to have the ice-cold milk ready when they come out of the oven.
Light Lunch:
White Chili Chicken from Prevention.com
You’ll just want to relax before and after your party. So, it’s a good idea to prepare a quick and easy lunch in advance, especially if you have family staying with you. This white chili chicken recipe is warm and satisfying, and you can be reheated from the fridge, little by little.
What are your favorite easy and delectable holiday recipes? Do you have any time-saving tips for holiday entertaining? Tell us below in the comment’s section!