Hosting during the holidays can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and tools, you can create a memorable celebration while enjoying the process. Here’s your ultimate guide to holiday hosting with time-saving tips, must-have kitchen gadgets, and crowd-pleasing appetizers and entrées.
Plan Ahead: The Key to Effortless Hosting
Create a Game Plan & Write out your menu a week in advance.
Prep the Day Before: Chop & Prep: Dice veggies, marinate proteins, and set up garnishes.
Set the Table: Arrange dinnerware, glassware, and décor the night before.
Clean as You Go: Tidy up during prep to avoid a post-cooking mess.
Empty the dishwasher in the morning for quick cleanup.
Must-Have Kitchen Gadgets for Holiday Hosting
Food Processor: Perfect for dips, sauces, and shredding veggies in seconds.
Instant Pot: Saves time for soups, stews, or even a cheesecake dessert.
Mandoline Slicer: Ideal for prepping thin, uniform slices for appetizers like au gratin potatoes.
Blender: Quickly need to whip up chutneys, or even blend drinks, the beast blender is my favorite and comes with 3 different cup sizes.
Electric Wine Opener: Impress your guests with effortless bottle opening.
Slow Cooker: I love crock pot/slow cooker to keep my gravy or queso nice and warm so no more babysitting on the stove top.
Below are a variety of recipes you can make from appetizers, sides, entrees, drink and dessert! I’ve even included non traditional recipes and some Indian fusion dishes as well.
By prepping ahead, utilizing the right gadgets, and serving a mix of easy yet elegant dishes, you can host a holiday gathering that’s as enjoyable for you as it is for your guests. Here’s to a stress-free and joyful holiday season! 🥂
Just an East/West coast girl living the southern life. I love sharing all my tested and perfected recipes here, along with some travel guides and a little bit of my lifestyle
