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By Jessica Haggard
Cooking is a huge source of stress during the holidays – planning, shopping and spending long hours in the kitchen can take away from the fun of hosting. Enjoy a festive meal this year without cooking a single dish. From buying ready-made dishes to hosting a potluck party, here are ways to prepare a holiday meal that is both festive and effortless.
Take advantage of the wide choice of seasonal dishes currently available from supermarkets, delicatessens or local markets. There should be plenty of high-quality ready-made food, ranging from main dishes to desserts.
Start with a breathtaking main course that feels homemade. Rotisserie turkey, pre-sliced honey ham or even stuffed pork tenderloin are packed with flavor and can be picked up pre-cooked. Most stores have options with seasonal spices or glazes, perfect for the holidays.
Choose classic, ready-made side dishes such as garlic mashed potatoescranberry sauce or salads. Heat-and-eat options like green bean casserole or stuffing can also complete your table without any extra work.
Many bakeries offer festive desserts such as pumpkin pies and Christmas cookies. You can also opt for a more generic cake or pie and garnish it with seasonal fruits and toppings for a more festive touch.
Once you have your store-bought food items, transfer them to your own serving dishes and garnish each dish with fresh herbs or citrus slices for a homemade touch. Small details, like coordinating linens and festive dishes, can make these ready-made dishes even special.
Can’t find anything you like in the store? Order trays with dishes that you like at your favorite restaurant or takeaway. Mix dishes from different establishments for greater variety and create a unique holiday spread with all the food you love.
You can even set a theme for your spread by choosing dishes from Asian, Italian or Mediterranean cuisines. To put together a cohesive meal, consider ordering a hearty main course from a restaurant, pairing it with side dishes from a deli and dessert from a nearby cafe. Pick up fresh bread or rolls from a local bakery to complete your takeout spread.
Reheat everything at home according to the restaurant’s instructions. Serve the dishes on your own party plates and garnish if necessary to give them a homemade touch. Guests will enjoy the thoughtful blend of flavors and presentation.
Hosting a potluck is another easy way to throw a holiday meal without cooking. Each guest brings a dish, creating a wide spread with a wide variety of delicious food. Here are some quick tips for a successful potluck.
It’s helpful to meet with guests in advance to get an idea of what they want to bring, to avoid duplicate dishes and ensure the menu is balanced. Start with a group chat where guests can claim their dish, or you can assign categories: appetizers, entrees, sides, and desserts.
Go for a dish that can serve as the centerpiece of the spread. Again, no cooking necessary; buy yours in the store or order from a restaurant.
As the host, provide everything else needed for the potluck, from serving utensils and condiments to easy drinks and extra garnishes. Don’t forget disposable containers or foil so guests can easily take leftovers home.
For a stress-free, no-cook holiday celebration, create a stunning meal holiday charcuterie and a cheese board that will amaze your guests. They will love sampling different snacks and appetizers, making this the perfect centerpiece for your gathering.
Don’t worry; Putting together a charcuterie spread is easier than you think. Simply gather your food items: meat and deli meats, cheese, fruits and vegetables, and bread and crackers. If desired, you can add extras such as dips, nuts and sweets.
To start, place a large plate or bowl as a base. Arrange your most important items, starting with the largest, such as meats, cheeses and dip bowls in small groups around the board. Leave some space between each for a clean look.
Then fill the gaps with bread slices, crackers, nuts, fresh fruit or candy. Make sure there is a variety of colors and textures to keep the board visually appealing.
Finally, garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers. Set out cheese knives and small spoons for easy serving. Place your charcuterie board in the center of the table with small plates and napkins so it can double as a dish and decor.
Do you find it hard to imagine hosting an elaborate formal dinner without cooking? Opt for a holiday brunch instead. The setting will be more relaxed with more options for dishes to serve, making a no-cook party easier.
Keep it simple with bread, salads, light casseroles and a variety of pastries. Don’t forget dips and spreads like cream cheese, apple butter and fig jam. Kristin King out Dizzy, busy and hungry encourages the preparation of “an inviting selection of meats and cheeses, sweet pastries, colorful seasonal fruits and homemade yogurt parfaits with plenty of toppings such as granola, honey and fresh berries.”
Her favorite highlight is a festive mimosa bar. For a fun touch, you can also set up a coffee and tea station with holiday flavors; think peppermint or spiced lattes, or a cranberry margarita.
Use tiered stands or platters for visual interest and add small garnishes, like fresh berries or herbs, to give everything a festive touch. Decorate with candles, a holiday table runner, and a vase of winter greenery for a warm and inviting brunch.
The holidays are all about bringing people together, creating memories and enjoying delicious food. No one said you have to cook the food – as long as there’s something tasty for everyone, that’s what matters. Whether you order the dishes, host a potluck, or put together a charcuterie board, the most important thing is that you can serve up a delicious, hearty holiday treat while you relax and enjoy the holidays like you deserve.
Jessica Haggard is dedicated to helping people prepare simple, everyday recipes with an emphasis on nutritious foods. She helps people overcome food allergies and discover healthy recipes that make a difference in their health with gluten-free, low-carb and keto cooking at Primal Edge health.
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