With the holiday season well underway, stress levels are on the rise. However, by planning ahead, you can help make the holidays less stressful and quite enjoyable! Whether you opt to throw in the towel and go for catering in Concord, NH, or roll up your sleeves and start prepping the make-ahead dishes, preparation is a key factor. Here at Celebrations Catering, we love making our customer’s lives easy. That is why we’ve created this helpful article with a few ideas for meal prep this Thanksgiving holiday.
Make-Ahead Appetizers
A staple of most gatherings is the cheese and cracker display. This year, why not spice the traditional platter up a bit? With the creation of customized cheese balls, you can prepare days ahead by freezing them to ensure freshness. These palm-sized creations can be modified to any palette. In fact, most combinations can safely be frozen for up to 3 months!
Another favorite during gatherings is the quick and easy handful of nuts. From peanuts to cashews, these protein-packed muchables can be placed around the entire home with ease. However, instead of opening the can and filling a bowl, try a make-ahead roasted nut mixture. By combining your favorite 3 – 4 nuts with rosemary, chili powder, cumin, oil, and lime juice, you’ll surprise your guests with this unexpected burst of holiday flavor.
Make-Ahead Side Dishes
Thanksgiving day side dishes are a fan favorite. In fact, many people look forward to the spread of sides more than they do the turkey. Now that the pressure is on, here are a few ideas to get you out of the kitchen and socializing with your guests a bit sooner than usual:
- Mashed Potatoes. A staple at the table, mashed potatoes can also be some of the most time consuming to prepare. However, a day or two before, start peeling! However, you’ll want to have refrigerator space ready as the peeled potatoes should be stored in salted water to prevent browning.
- Green Bean Casserole. This easy make-ahead can be stored chilled for up to 24 hours.
- Sweet Potato and Carrot Casserole. Another night before make-ahead that can be stored for up to 24 hours and warmed in the oven once the turkey comes out!
- Cranberry Relish. What’s Thanksgiving dinner without cranberry sauce? This holiday side dish can be made and stored chilled for up to one week before dinner.
Of course, we have to mention desserts as well. As one of the most manageable make-ahead categories, the hardest part will be deciding which dishes to serve! Here at Celebrations Catering, we’re making Thanksgiving easy by providing our customers catering in Concord, NH, and surrounding areas. From the turkey to the pie, we can make all of your dinner needs happen! Call us today before it’s too late (888) 401-3663.
