Every family has its favorite dishes for the holidays, traditions that have been passed down year after year.\u00a0 Maybe it is time to spice things up and introduce some new recipes or at least make some variations to some favorites.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s a good idea to incorporate family favorites from your spouse\u2019s family (if you can get them to share the recipes), especially if you can\u2019t get together with that side of the family. Here are a few different ideas to help you find your own groove this holiday season.<\/p>\n
Appetizers \u2013 Why not have a few appetizers set out, so people can snack while dinner is finishing up?\u00a0 Set out some healthy things to munch on, like fruit and veggies or cheese and crackers.\u00a0 It\u2019s easy to set up a nice tray; even just a foil lined pizza pan covered in clear plastic with Christmas designs on it can dress up the table.<\/p>\n
Side Dishes \u2013 Tired of the same old stuffing or mashed potatoes?\u00a0 Try some souped up stuffing.\u00a0 Take some precooked chicken (or left over turkey from Thanksgiving), picked off the bone and then mix that with your favorite cream soup (chicken, mushroom or celery) and some sour cream, top with stuffing, add a little water and bake according to the directions on the stuffing box.<\/p>\n
Other side dishes can feature different vegetables, noodles or potatoes. You could also have some fruit side dishes, like baked apples.\u00a0 If it\u2019s a family gathering where everyone brings a different dish, then try out that recipe you\u2019ve been wanting to make but haven\u2019t.<\/p>\n
Main Dishes \u2013 While a ham or turkey may be traditional for Christmas dinner, how about a roast?\u00a0 It\u2019s simple to cook a nice, moist roast using a slow cooker.\u00a0 Place the meat in the slow cooker, add some broth or au jus, some favorite spices and let it cook while you are enjoying the family.\u00a0 Add some vegetables; simply select ones that cook well in the slow cooker and there is one less dish to make.<\/p>\n
Desserts \u2013 Everybody loves desserts, especially at the holidays. We tend to overindulge in them.\u00a0 Try to find some desserts that are still delicious, yet a little less filling. Gelatin, especially if you make red or green, is always a hit around the holidays. Add fruit or make it into squares or even fun shapes with cookie cutters.<\/p>\n
Instead of having very heavy desserts try having an angel food cake. Adding red and green candy or sugar sprinkles gives it a festive look.\u00a0 Have a variety of bite-size desserts, such as mints, chocolate covered nuts or peanut butter balls.\u00a0 This will give guests a variety and help curb the need to overindulge as well.<\/p>\n