5 Tips for a Stress Free Thanksgiving
When you’re hosting, this special holiday can be stressful. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Spend less time worrying, and more time giving thanks with these 5 tips.
Pre-plan Your Menu
Cooking a Thanksgiving feast can be overwhelming, but with a little planning, it can be as smooth as that perfect gravy you’re going to make! Take some time a few days beforehand to note what you’ll be serving. This is a great time to see what needs a little longer in the oven, what can be whipped up as the turkey is resting, and best of all, what can be made a day or two ahead. Make yourself a cooking schedule and keep it handy during the day.
Keep It Simple
This can be a great time of year to try out fancy new recipes and the latest trends, but piling too much onto your plate could result in disaster. Most staple foods this time of year, like turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and stuffing, can be prepared simply and easily with no frills recipes. Add a little flair with a special side, like Moroccan date stuffed cookies or slow-braised mushrooms. One or two unexpected sides will be more than enough to delight your guests.
Set the Table the Night Before
This one is almost too easy! Take a few moments to set the table the night before. If you are running behind on cooking the day of, your table will be a stunning centerpiece your guests can admire and gather around. And if you’re right on schedule? Its still one less thing to think about.
Make the Most of Your Space
How is your home laid out? Do you have an open kitchen with a large island and big sink? Or do you have less space to work with? If you don’t have enough prep space with your countertops alone, make use of a side table or roll-away cart. Here at French Brothers, we know new homeowners in Southern New Mexico care about their friends and family. That’s why we design all of our homes with open layouts, super functional kitchens, and great food prep space!
Don’t Worry
That’s right, our last tip is just don’t worry! It’s all too easy to forget the real reason for this holiday; a time to come together with those you love and give thanks for what you have. If the gravy is lumpy, or the ice tea too sweet, or a rambunctious toddler breaks a dish, you can still enjoy the company of friends and family, something delicious, and the full, contented feeling of being grateful.
Tags: holiday, new home, open kitchen, stress-free, thanksgiving
