Christmas is a time for celebrating with family and friends. But if you are the host, it can be one of the most stressful meals of the year. These tips will help you pull off a festivity without losing your holiday spirit or sanity!
1. Make a list and check it twice!
Decide on the items you need, at least a week in advance. The menu would include appetizers/ “bites”, drinks, main meal and dessert. The ‘bites’ will set the tone for the meal, so make sure they are mouth-watering.
2. Shop smart
Non-perishable items can be purchased ahead, and fresh foods can be bought a day or two prior, to avoid last minute rush. Do not change your menu plan once decided.
3. HO-HO, OH NO!
Do not experiment, but stick to delectable recipes you have tried before. If it is something new, practice and perfect it.
4. “It was the night before”
Slice the onions, chili, garlic & ginger etc. and refrigerate. Also marinating your meats the day before will not only ease work on the day but make your food extremely flavourful. Arranging the house and setting the table with cutlery and crockery, all should be done the day before. Or be a domestic God/dess and delegate!
5. Goodies
A dessert that can be made in advance ensures you have one less dish to prepare on the day. Festive puddings, cookies or cakes will be the perfect ending to a scrumptious meal!
6. Naughty or nice?
Do not expect perfection but give of your best and enjoy the company.
Just follow the above tips and hosting lunch could not be easier, unless ….you go to someone else's house for Christmas lunch!
