Christmas is a magical season where spending time with family and friends, enjoying good food and fellowship and of course giving and receiving lots of presents, create unforgettable memories to all who celebrate. However, with the myriad of tasks at hand, the ability to enjoy the fun and companionship of the day is sometimes lost. Here are some simple tips that will help you spend less time in the kitchen and more with your loved ones whilst serving up the most delicious dishes this Christmas.
- Despite it being Christmas, the family will still expect regular meals. So for a festive breakfast some easy treats could be; sweet or savory muffins or pancakes, French toast, pre made puff pastry rolls with a variety of fillings.
- Create quick appetisers for guests such as a simple cheese and cracker tray, sausages and peppers skewers, fruit kebabs, crackers and dips, bruschetta etc.
- Place the punch, wine and other beverages on a table so guests can re-fill their glasses without hassling you. With easy access to drinks and snacks, the party can flow smoothly while you put the finishing touches to the main meal.
- Peel, chop and bag the vegetables and pop them into the freezer to retain freshness, ready to be roasted, steamed or boiled on the day.
- Clean seafood and meats, marinate the day before and freeze. Saves time and adds flavour.
- Choose a dessert that can be made in advance, like a Christmas pudding (Can be made even a month ahead and then steamed on day), trifle, brownie, cheesecake, caramel etc. and refrigerate.
In the days ensuing Christmas:
- Leftover meats can be shredded and used in salads, wraps, pizzas or sandwiches. Also, it can be stir fried in rice or noodles or added into soups and pastas.
- Left over roasted vegetables can be used in a stew or pureed with chicken stock or broth to make a delicious soup.
