Local Expert Blog: A Festive Food Frenzy!
Thursday December 14th, 2023, 4:30pm
The holidays are meant for spending time with the ones we love, spreading good cheer and celebrating the “happiest season of all”. One of the very best ways to enjoy this time together is to break bread, share a potluck, indulge in some sweet treats, or, if you’re like us – do it all! That’s right, the food is where it’s at this time of year. Whether you’re hosting and preparing the full menu, or if you’ll be a guest, bringing an appetizer or dessert, you always want to plan ahead, ensuring you have everything you need for a Festive Food Frenzy!
Sticking to Tradition
Turkey and stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean casserole and candied yams….the list goes on and on when it comes to that traditional, just like Mom used to make, Christmas dinner. Write out your menu in advance and create a shopping list of all ingredients, serving bowls and platters, utensils and other things you’ll need to serve up your holiday feast. Shop early for all non-perishables, saving things like produce and fresh buns for closer to your date. Review your guest list ensuring you have enough dishware to accommodate everyone. If you’re short, rent some extras. Remember it’s always best to have a little extra than not enough.
Potluck Party Time
Popular for work lunches, or an evening with friends, a potluck is a fabulous way to make sure there’s something for everyone. Post a list near the punch clock for staff to write down what they plan to bring or start a group chat with friends so everyone can share their dish of choice. This can help to ensure you don’t end up with doubles (or triples) of the same thing. We could certainly all enjoy three trays of latkes, but one of the purposes of the potluck is variety, don’t forget. Make sure everyone is aware if there are food allergies or preferences so that everyone stays safe & healthy. It’s also a good idea to keep some extra serving utensils and chafing dishes on hand for serving and keeping food warm. Be sure to have some extra outlets open for crockpots too as there are bound to be some of those!
Finger Food Fun
Who doesn’t love apps & desserts?! Ugly sweater parties, holiday game nights and family Christmas movie marathons are all fun, cozy ways to celebrate the season. Throw in some pigs in a blanket or a tray of fudge and we’re in! Finger foods are the way to go when a low maintenance, casual celebration is what you’re after. Be sure to stock up on napkins and appetizer plates, some toothpicks or forks and it’s as easy as that. Everyone can graze as they go, sampling all the yummy bites, enjoying laughs and fellowship, making delicious holiday memories together.
No matter what your plans are this holiday season, your celebrations are certain to include food! Try something new, indulge a little and make the most of this magical time of year.
Let us also remember those less fortunate, perhaps dealing with food insecurity, especially during the holidays. As we celebrate and give thanks for our bounty, consider donating extra food to the local mission, or collecting canned goods for the food bank.
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