There's no escaping the fact that the holidays can be busy. Nevertheless, a few smart cooking tips can make sure that your holiday feast is ready on time.
Our top 4 cooking tips are as follows:
- Prepare salads ahead of time
- Before cooking, chop up vegetables
- Skip the turkey and try a smaller bird
- Try subbing steaks for the roast
Read on to learn how to master these holiday cooking tips in time for your Thanksgiving and Christmas meals.
Prepare salads ahead of time
If you’re crunched for time, try using a hearty green like escarole, frisee, or kale. These greens won’t wilt right away or become soggy while waiting for your guests to arrive. You could also try adding your dressing to the bottom of the bowl and topping the salad with ingredients that won’t soak up the dressing (carrots, cucumbers etc.) and leaving the fragile ingredients like lettuce and herbs on top. This way, you can simply stir up the salad once you’re ready to begin eating for a fresh and crisp starter!
Before cooking, chop up vegetables
Vegetables like winter squash and root vegetables are a staple at the holiday table, but they can take a long time to cook if left whole. It will take less time to cook the vegetables if they are cut smaller, whether a dish is boiled or roasted. It’s just simple physics ;)
Skip the turkey and try a smaller bird
Go for a herb-roasted chicken or even cornish hens, if you’re feeling extra special! Not only do these mini birds cook in half the time, but they are also perfectly sized for single servings and still add a touch of flair to special occasions.
Try subbing steaks for the roast
When compared to their whole-cut counterparts, steaks need less cooking time. Try visiting your local butcher or organic grocery store for some extra-special grass-fed goodness. Grilling them brings out more flavor, and serving them with a rich sauce elevates your meal to Christmas or Thanksgiving dinner perfection.
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What is your favorite holiday cooking tip? Let us know in the comments below.
