Sparkle this season with these easy entertaining tips
Holidays when I was a little girl meant big, boisterous meals with my extended family. Now there are so many more reasons for holiday entertaining from fancy Art Basel openings to casual office parties.
Whatever your event, make it a celebration for everyone. Plan your party so you aren’t a prisoner in your own kitchen. Your guests are there to have fun, but they’re also there to spend time with you.
Create a sense of welcome when you open the door. Greet your guests with a smile, offer a drink – maybe a glass of something sparkling – and some easy finger food. Nuts, olives and crostini never disappoint – and don’t take a lot of effort on your part, either.
Set the mood when you set the table. Plating each dish is pretty, but more formal and time-consuming. Serving family style or buffet with platters to be shared makes more sense when feeding a crowd (and reduces host stress).
At the holidays, or really, in every season, comfort food is always in style. I’m glad to share a favorite – my family recipe for bread pudding. Rich and creamy, just a taste reminds me of holidays when I was young. The addition of orange and cranberry give a seasonal flair, and the white chocolate is there because . . . well, who doesn’t want chocolate? A sweet extra for you – it can be prepared the day ahead and refrigerated, then baked the day you serve.
Another tip – take the stress out of the season and celebrate with Open Kitchen’s special holiday feast. We do everything from start to finish, festive apps like caramelized brie tarts with Florida honey, classic roasted turkey with a fruit and nut-studded dressing, creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables and French fruit tart or flourless chocolate cake.
We’re taking orders now through December 20 for pick up December 24.
Christmas Dinner Package & Menu
Less time in the kitchen, more time with family and friends. Entertaining should always be this easy. Happy holidays from the Open Kitchen family to your family.
Open heart, Open Kitchen,
