Recipe Station

Whether you're hosting for the first time this year or you're a seasoned vet when it comes to the holidays there are some simple tips and trick that can make the day go smoothly.

Create A Plan/Make A List 

I can just hear my mother in my head right now. She was a big believer in making lists and since all of her holidays went off without a hitch I am starting to believe that she was on to something.

This might be the single most important thing you can do, right after Aunt Janet-proofing the liquor cabinet. Map out what exactly you have to do, what you need to do it, approximately how long it will take, and how much oven/stovetop space it’ll require (often overlooked).

The Make Ahead

If there is one thing I have learned from my grandmother it's work smarter not harder in the kitchen! While Tom Turkey must (for the most part) wait until the day of to be cooked there are quite a few side dishes that can be cooked the day before and still taste as fresh as if they just came out of the oven.

Gravy

Stuffing

Mashed Potatoes

Pie/Cobblers/Desserts

Cranberry Sauce

Honestly, most sides can be made ahead of time and put in the fridge overnight. Warming up sides before putting them on the table is so much simpler than making them the day of. Save your sanity- make ahead!

Chopping/Slicing/Cutting

Okay sure, when the entire family has descended in all of their dysfunctional glory onto your home chopping up veggies and other ingredients can be seriously therapeutic, however, take into consideration that its a simple task made complicated by dogs barking, children running around you all hyped up on holiday cheer and your crazy Uncle drinking and telling his “back when I was a kid” stories for the thousandth time. The last thing you need is a knife in your hand. So, stock up on those plastic bags and Tupperware and get it out of the way before the big day!

This next one is one of my favorites!

Get Bossy

Seriously, when I am in my zone the last thing I need is people getting in my way. So the best bet when it comes to well-meaning relatives who want to help is to get bossy with them. If they truly want to help they will not mind. I have found that most people would rather you tell them what to do than fumble around the kitchen getting in everyone's way. So tell them to set the oven, baste the turkey or wash the cranberries but enlist their help wherever needed. Don't be afraid to ask, but please for the sake of family drama, ask politely!