because you deserve it all

Here are some of my favorite tips for stress free holiday entertaining.  Life is too short to get all worried and worst of all to not have enough time to enjoy your own party.  That is tragic!

1) Make something ahead of time so you just have to throw it in the oven.  I love to make a tray of lasagna a day or two ahead of time and bake it off when my guests arrive.  It actually tastes better after it sits for a bit and who doesn’t love lasagna?

2) Make a cheesecake for dessert because you can make it the day before and can serve it for a couple of days until it is gone.  I like to make a simple glaze by melting high quality seedless jams as a sauce.  People love it and it is so simple – just put some jam in a sauce pan and heat over low heat until warm. 

3) Keep life simple and just serve appetizers.  A simple platter with grapes, cheddar cheese, and crackers is always a crowd pleaser.  Include an olive dip or a spinach and artichoke dip as well.  I also like to have a stacked dessert tray with little treats like truffles, amaretti cookies, and biscotti.  You can never go wrong with some brie and a baguette as well.  The holidays are about enjoying friends and family not being the martyr that cooked all day. 

4) Have a dessert buffet with chocolate mousse, a cheesecake, and holiday cookies.  Make some strong coffee and spike it with Baileys – your guests will love it!