Photos by Angela Sackett
The song goes, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” All too often though, holiday hosts are too busy running around the kitchen to be singing that tune.
But what if there were a way to make delicious, made-from-scratch holiday dishes without the unpleasant “side” of exhaustion?
I’ve found it’s all about the preparation. Instead of preparing for your holiday meal all in one big day, spread it out over a couple of days. Then on the day of the party you just pull a few things together and voilà! You get to enjoy your tasty hard work with the rest of your guests.
It also helps to have some great holiday recipes you trust so you’re not worried about the end result. In my holiday menu, you’ll find dishes you can be confident your guests will love, whether they are gluten free or not.
I’ve given classic holiday recipes a fresh twist, like adding perfectly roasted apples to Sweet Potato Casserole. For dessert there’s Pecan Pie Bars and Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream, because no one should be forced to choose between the two holiday classics.
Each recipe comes with a “make-ahead tip” that will help make your life easier and keep your kitchen clean. If you follow this menu and these tips you’ll be so ready for your holiday party that your family and friends will be wondering how you pulled it all off.
Apple Pie Martini
Stuffed Turkey Breast Wrapped in Pancetta
Honey Apple Bruschetta
Homemade Green Bean Casserole
Fresh Cornbread Casserole
Cumin-Spiced Potatoes with Chorizo
Sweet Potato Casserole with Roasted Apples
Pecan Pie Bars
Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream
