I love entertaining especially during the holiday season! There's something about having friends and family over that just makes my day and puts me into the holiday spirit; but I have to admit, entertaining can be stressful at times. Not only do I have the kids underfoot, but I also have to worry about what I'm going to feed my guests when they arrive while ensuring that my party goes flawlessly and I don’t spend the whole party in the kitchen!. After many years of entertaining, I have learned a thing or two along with the way. In partnership with Alouette Cheese, I want to share my four easy ways that you too can entertain virtually stress-free this holiday season – it's not as difficult as you'd think!
1. Choose quick and easy ingredients that do the work for you
Let’s face it, the holidays are a busy time and you won’t be able to spend the full day in the kitchen. Also, you won’t want to be stuck in the kitchen the whole time of your holiday party. So don’t! Purchase ingredients that do most of the work for you. I love that Alouette Garlic & Herbs Soft Spreadable Cheese comes in a tub that looks just like a white ramekin. Also, the cheese itself has a gorgeous sprinkling of herbs on top that gives the impression that you slaved away on a cheese spread for your guests. In reality, all you have to do is pick it up at your local grocery store and pop off the top! Put it out with some fresh veggies and chunks of bread for a quick and easy appetizer and you’re done!
2. Serve tried and true recipes or ones you can't get wrong
Now is not the time to try a new recipe that you've found on Pinterest or that you've seen your favorite chef prepare on your favorite food channel. Stick with tried and true recipes that you've prepared numerous times, and that you know your guests will love. One such appetizer recipe that my family and I have been serving for many years is our creamy stuffed celery sticks. It's always a hit, and you truly can't go wrong with this recipe. Not just because it's simple to create, but its also delicious too! For this recipe we used Alouette Garlic & Herbs Soft Spreadable Cheese. The Garlic and Herbs in Alouette's Garlic & Herbs Soft Spreadable Cheese gives it that added oomph, and I also add some chopped chives and paprika on the top for that festive holiday feel. However, you can totally make it your own, by adding bacon etc. Be sure to save some for your guests because once you take a bite, you're not going to want to stop.
3. Make a shopping list and check it twice
Just like Santa makes his list and checks it twice, you should also do the same thing so that you can make certain that you'll have everything that you require for the big day. The grocery stores are treacherous enough without having to pack up the kids and go multiple times during the holiday season because you forgot certain ingredients. Begin with your recipes and add all the ingredients to your list. Don’t forget about spices or staple ingredients you might think you have, but might be running low on! Then, follow up with your decorations and party essentials.
4. Enlist help
Get everyone involved! While you can consider hiring help, sometimes all you need to do is ask family and friends and you'll be surprised at how many of them will get involved. And don't forget the kids. You can even offer an incentive. The first to show up at your door will receive a gift. Create a gift basket and fill it with Alouette Garlic & Herbs Soft Spreadable Cheese, they'll appreciate it!
With a little bit of planning, you too can entertain stress-free this holiday season!
Have you tried Alouette Garlic & Herbs Soft Spreadable Cheese yet?
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