Christmas Traditions

Some Crowd Pleasing Tips
Plan ahead if possible. But when those last minute parties seem to form by themselves, your freezer is your best friend.

Cook ahead and keep dishes stored in your refrigerator as well. Recipes like collards and black beans actually taste better if they’re made a day or two in advance because the flavors have a chance to mellow and blend.

Wrap forks, knives and spoons in holiday napkins and tie with colorful ribbons. This is a terrific buffet idea because it reduces the number of items to be juggled in the serving line.

Keep your menu simple with as few "last-minute" dishes as possible. Use tossed salads often as a vegetable and fresh fruits as a dessert. You can mix salads and cut fruit early in the day and store in the refrigerator as long as they are left "undressed". But dip cut fruits in lemon juice to prevent them from turning brown.

Accept help: if a guest offers to help, then by all means let them! Often when guests are involved in the party preparations, everyone feels more at home and has a better time.