As we return to holiday gatherings, we want to enjoy our guests and not be stuck in the kitchen prepping the whole time. With a little creativity and a few lists, get prepped and pop some bubbly with your guests! Here are three holiday entertaining tips that can make hosting a little easier.
1. Be prepared and keep it simple
When it is your turn to host a holiday, it can feel overwhelming, especially if the festivity is taking place at your house. A few helpful tips to help you feel less stressed:
Make a list
The first step is to make a list with what you need. Decide in advance what you want to serve for your appetizer, main course, and dessert. Once your menu is decided this makes your trip to the grocery store smoother and you already have a head start prepping for your guests.
Keep it simple
From the holiday décor to dishes, keep it simple. Instead of having several appetizers, choose two to three that will complement each other. The presentation of each dish and décor looks polished when there is not much clutter.
2. Complementary Beverages
Offer a signature cocktail that is light and refreshing along with a few other options but always have non-alcoholic beverages on tap for guests who are driving. Right now, we are enjoying a festive sangria that can be garnished with apples or cranberries as well as a non-alcoholic cranberry punch that is a delicious blend of juices and soda.
3. Ample Selection
While hosting a holiday gathering, having a variety of snacks and appetizers at your table such as: meats, cheeses and crisps that complement each other and is different to your guests’ palette. Here are three pairings that will diversify your appetizer table.
- baked camembert brulée with cranberry sauce and orange zest paired with raincoast crisps® rosemary raisin pecan
- salty date, almond and cherry chocolate bark paired with raincoast crisps® salty date and almond
- olive and fig tapenade paired with raincoast crisps® fig and olive
So, the next time you are hosting a holiday party, consider these three entertaining tips. For more entertaining inspo, visit our website for pairing tips and recipe ideas.
