Christmas is such a special occasion – it’s a time when you see your loved ones, exchange gifts, and of course, enjoy a delicious meal together.
Unfortunately, planning the perfect Christmas meal can be overwhelming, especially if you want to impress your guests.
To ease your worries, meal planning is something you must do. This will ensure your tasks and schedule are well-organized, and you can avoid any last-minute chaos.
Also Check: Ultimate Christmas Preparation & Planning Checklist
Why is meal planning during Christmas so important?
Christmas is a time of celebration and joy, and the centerpiece of this celebration is the Christmas meal. This is the time when family and friends come together to enjoy a delicious feast, share stories, and create cherished memories.
But with so many dishes and guests to cater to, it can be quite overwhelming to plan and prepare a perfect Christmas meal. That’s where meal planning comes in.
A well-planned Christmas meal ensures that you have everything you need in advance, eliminates stress, and guarantees a successful and enjoyable day for everyone, including the host.
The Benefits of Creating a Christmas Meal Plan
Here are the advantages you can get from meal planning on Christmas.
It helps you save time
Creating a meal plan in advance helps you save time, especially during the hectic holiday season.
Planning will help you easily allocate your time and focus on specific tasks, such as grocery shopping or preparing certain dishes, without having to worry about what else needs to be done.
You can minimize waste
During the holiday season, minimizing food waste is crucial.
With a meal plan, you can precisely calculate the amount of food you need to prepare for the number of guests you are expecting.
This way, you can avoid overbuying, which can lead to unnecessary waste.
You can save money
Planning your Christmas meal can also help you save money.
By creating a list of all the ingredients you need, you can avoid impulse purchases and stick to your budget.
Additionally, if you have enough time, you can look for deals and discounts on ingredients and decorations, further reducing your expenses.
It sets the tone for your Christmas meal
Having a well-planned Christmas meal sets the tone for the entire day. When you have everything organized and under control, you can relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones without feeling stressed or rushed.
Your guests will also appreciate the effort you put into creating a delicious and festive meal for them.
It allows you to set a theme around your food
Creating a meal plan for Christmas also allows you to set a theme around your food.
Whether you want to go traditional with a classic roast turkey or ham or opt for something unique like a seafood platter or vegan feast, you can plan your menu accordingly.
Planning also enables you to coordinate your dishes with your decor and table settings, adding to the ambiance and creating a cohesive experience for your guests.
Related: Christmas Entertainment & Activity Ideas
Step-by-Step Guide to Christmas Meal Planning
Here’s a guide to Christmas meal planning that will help you prepare a scrumptious feast with ease.
Step 1: Understanding Your Christmas Meal Requirements
Before you start creating your Christmas meal plan, it’s important to understand your requirements. Here are some factors to consider:
Determining the number of guests
The number of guests is a crucial factor to consider when planning your Christmas meal.
You need to know how many people you are catering to, as this will determine the amount of food you need to prepare.
Make sure you have an accurate headcount by sending out invitations or confirming RSVPs in advance.
It’s better to overestimate than underestimate, as you don’t want to run out of food on Christmas.
Taking into account dietary restrictions or preferences
If you have guests with specific dietary needs, such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or nut-free, make sure to accommodate them.
You can plan alternative dishes or options that everyone can enjoy. If you are unsure of any dietary requirements, it’s always better to ask in advance to ensure everyone is catered for and comfortable with the menu.
Deciding on the type of meal
Deciding the type of Christmas meal you want to host plays a significant role in your Christmas meal planning.
For instance, are you planning a formal sit-down dinner or a more casual buffet-style meal? This will affect the number and type of dishes you’ll need to prepare.
A formal dinner typically has a set menu, while a buffet allows guests to pick and choose from a variety of dishes. Consider your guests’ preferences and the atmosphere you want to create when deciding on the type of meal.
Step 2: Setting a Christmas Meal Budget
Take a look at why you should set your Christmas meal budget.
Importance of establishing a budget
Setting a budget for the holidays is essential to ensure that you don’t end up with unnecessary expenses.
With so many things to plan and prepare for, it’s easy to get carried away and spend more than you intended. By establishing a budget, you can keep your expenses under control and allocate your resources more efficiently.
Tips for budgeting for a Christmas meal
Check out this section to help you budget for your Christmas meal.
Make a list of all the necessary expenses
To establish a budget for your Christmas meal, the first step is to make a list of all things you must buy. This includes ingredients, decorations, table settings, and any other items you need. Be sure to include everything, no matter how small it may seem.
Once you have a comprehensive list, consider how much you are willing to spend on each item.
Allocate your resources according to your priorities, such as investing in high-quality ingredients or splurging on elaborate table setting decorations.
Set a budget based on your income and expenses
When setting your Christmas meal budget, it’s important to be realistic by taking your income and expenses into account. Consider how much money you can comfortably allocate towards the meal without putting a strain on your finances.
If you’re on a tight budget, consider alternative options such as shopping at discount stores for ingredients and decorations, or opting for simpler meal options. Remember, it’s more important to enjoy time with loved ones than to stress over extravagant expenses that will set you back financially.
Consider asking your guests to contribute to the meal
If you’re worried about the cost of your Christmas meal, consider asking your guests to contribute to the meal. You can ask each guest to bring a dish or drink or assign specific items to different guests.
This can not only help to alleviate some of the financial burdens but also adds a fun and communal aspect to the meal. It’s also an incredible way to try new foods and share family recipes while also reducing the amount of work and expense on the host.
Compare prices from different stores and online retailers
Another way to budget for your Christmas meal is by comparing prices from different stores and online retailers.
By doing this, you can find the best deals and save money on ingredients, decorations, and other items.
Take the time to research and shop around before making any purchases, and don’t be afraid to take advantage of sales or discounts.
Don’t forget to factor in any additional expenses
Don’t forget to factor in any additional expenses that may arise. This could include things like extra drinks, unexpected guests, or last-minute decorations. It’s always better to plan for the unexpected and have a little extra budget than to be caught off guard and overspend.
Consider creating a contingency plan in case something goes wrong, such as a dish not turning out or an unexpected expense popping up. By planning and being prepared, you can avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy a relaxed and enjoyable Christmas meal with your loved ones.
Strategies for maximizing your budget
Here are some tips and tricks you can follow to maximize your budget.
Cook the Christmas dinner yourself
If you want to save money on your Christmas meal, consider cooking dinner yourself.
This not only saves on the cost of hiring a professional chef or caterer but also allows you to have complete control over the quality and ingredients in the meal.
Choose in-season ingredients
Another great strategy for maximizing your budget is to choose in-season ingredients.
Not only are in-season ingredients typically cheaper, but they’re also fresher and more flavorful.
Bulk up main dishes with sides and salads
To stretch your budget further, consider bulking up your Christmas meal with sides and salads.
These dishes are typically less expensive than the main course, and they can help to fill up your guests without breaking the bank.
With the right seasoning and preparation, sides and salads can be just as delicious and satisfying as the main course.
Buy store brands
If you’re trying to save money on your Christmas meal, buying store brands is a great option. Many store brands offer the same quality and taste as their more expensive counterparts, but at a fraction of the cost.
Consider buying store-brand ingredients for your meal, including canned goods, spices, and even drinks.
Buy in bulk
This tip works especially well for non-perishable items like canned goods and dry ingredients.
Purchasing in larger quantities can often lead to significant savings, and you can always store any excess for later use.
Another way to buy in bulk is to shop at wholesale stores or online retailers that offer bulk discounts. This is an incredible way to save money on ingredients that you know you’ll need in larger quantities.
Shop in advance
By planning and purchasing items ahead of time, you can take advantage of sales, discounts, or coupons. This can help you save money and avoid the last-minute rush that often leads to overspending.
Check your cupboard
Before heading to the store, check your cupboard for any ingredients you already have on hand. This can save you money and prevent you from buying duplicates of items you already have.
Additionally, you might be able to create a meal around the ingredients you already have, which can help you save even more money.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Christmas Dishes
Choosing the right dishes for your Christmas meal can be overwhelming, but it’s important to consider your budget when making these choices.
Take a look at these tips to help you choose the right dishes for your Christmas meal while still staying within your budget.
The traditional Christmas dishes
One option for choosing dishes for your Christmas meal is to go with traditional Christmas dishes.
These are dishes that are commonly associated with the holiday season, such as roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, roast rib, and cranberry sauce. These dishes are often crowd-pleasers and will definitely satisfy your guests.
Innovative and unique Christmas meal ideas
If you’re feeling more adventurous and want to try something new, there are plenty of innovative and unique Christmas meal ideas that won’t break the bank.
For example, you could try making a hearty vegetarian lasagna with seasonal vegetables like butternut squash.
Alternatively, you could make a slow-cooked beef stew that can feed a large group and add affordable ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and onions.
You could also consider incorporating ethnic dishes into your Christmas meal, such as a spicy Indian curry or a flavorful birria tacos.
Not only are these dishes a fun twist on traditional holiday fare, but they can also be more budget-friendly than some of the more expensive Christmas staples.
Balancing the meal – protein, carbs, and vegetables
When planning your Christmas meal, it’s important to ensure it includes protein, carbs, and vegetables.
This not only makes the meal more satisfying but also nutritious. Your guests will appreciate a balanced meal that leaves them feeling full.
Selection of desserts
No Christmas meal is complete without a selection of desserts. When it comes to dessert, there are plenty of options to choose from.
For example, a classic apple pie or pumpkin pie can be an affordable and delicious option. Alternatively, you could make a homemade chocolate cake or a fruit tart.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you could try making a dessert that’s a little more unique.
For example, you could set up a small homemade ice cream sundae station, complete with different flavors of ice cream and toppings like crushed candy canes, chopped nuts, and hot fudge.
Step 4: Planning the Christmas Beverage Menu
Planning the beverage menu for your Christmas meal is just as important as planning the food.
Here are some tips to help you choose the right beverages while still staying within your budget.
Non-alcoholic drink options
When planning your Christmas beverage menu, it’s crucial to include non-alcoholic drink options to cater to all of your guests.
Consider serving festive mocktails such as cranberry sparklers or virgin eggnog. You could also offer a variety of non-alcoholic sodas, juices, and water.
Alcoholic beverages suitable for Christmas meals
If you plan on serving alcoholic beverages at your Christmas meal, it’s important to choose ones that pair well with the food you’ll be serving.
Wine is always a classic option, and you can find affordable options that still taste great. If you’re looking to mix things up, you could try making a festive cocktail like a spiced cider sangria or a peppermint martini.
Just be sure to choose drinks that won’t break the bank, as alcohol can add up quickly.
Pairing beverages with dishes
Consider the flavors of dishes and drinks and how they complement each other.
For example, if you’re serving a roasted turkey with gravy, a full-bodied red wine like a Merlot or Pinot Noir would be a great pairing.
If you’re serving a vegetarian lasagna, a light and fruity white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would be a better option.
When it comes to desserts, you can never go wrong with a sweet wine like a Riesling or Moscato.
If you’re serving a chocolate dessert, a rich and full-bodied red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon.
Step 5: The Art of Christmas Meal Prep and Cooking
The art of Christmas meal prep and cooking is all about timing and organization.
Timeline for preparing different dishes
To make sure that everything is ready on time, it’s important to create a timeline for preparing different dishes. Write down this timeline to ensure that you don’t forget anything.
For example, you can start preparing your turkey a day before by brining it overnight and then roasting it on the day of the meal. Don’t forget to factor in time for resting and carving the turkey once it has been prepared.
Similarly, you can prepare your mashed potatoes a few hours before the meal, and keep them warm in a crockpot.
Your vegetable dishes can be prepared earlier in the day and then reheated just before serving. Desserts can be made a day or two before the meal to save time on the day of the event.
Tips for efficient cooking and baking
Before you start cooking, review these tips first.
Set up your appliances, especially your oven
Creating an efficient cooking environment is a must, especially during hectic times like the holidays. Preheat your oven and make sure that all your cooking tools are clean and within reach. This will ensure that everything is in working order and that you won’t have any last-minute issues.
Organize your ingredients
Having all your ingredients prepared and ready to go can save you a lot of time and hassle. Chop your vegetables, measure out your spices, and have your meats defrosted and ready to go. This way, you can work efficiently without having to stop and look for ingredients.
Use timers and alarms
To make sure that everything is cooked and baked to perfection, use timers and alarms to keep track of cooking and baking times.
This will prevent overcooking or burning, and ensure that everything is ready to serve at the same time.
Figure out what you can multitask
Multitasking can be incredibly helpful when it comes to preparing a Christmas meal.
For example, while your turkey is roasting, you can start preparing your side dishes. While your mashed potatoes are cooking, you could be setting the table or preparing your beverages. Just make sure to keep an eye on what you’re cooking to avoid any mishaps.
Use multiple wide pans and trays
When it comes to cooking a large meal like a Christmas feast, using multiple wide pans and trays can be a lifesaver. This allows you to cook more food at once, saving you time and effort.
For instance, if you’re making oven-roasted vegetables, use two or three large trays instead of trying to fit everything onto one. This will help the vegetables roast more evenly and quickly, and prevent them from getting too crowded and soggy.
Improvise when needed
Sometimes, despite all your preparation, things may not go according to plan. Don’t panic. Instead, improvise.
For instance, if you accidentally overcook your vegetables, you can mash them up and turn them into a tasty puree. If your dessert doesn’t set as expected, throw some whipped cream on top and call it a trifle.
Remember, the holidays are about enjoying time with loved ones, not about having a perfectly executed meal. So, relax, have fun, and don’t be afraid to improvise if needed.
Have the recipes written down on paper or on your phone
This tip will ensure that you don’t forget any ingredients or steps in the cooking process. Plus, having the recipes easily accessible will allow you to cook with confidence and avoid any unnecessary stress.
Handling food safely during preparation and storage
When it comes to preparing and storing food, safety should always be a top priority, especially during the holidays when so many people are involved. Here are some tips for handling food safely.
Wash your hands
Before preparing any food, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. This will prevent the transfer of harmful bacteria and viruses.
Separate raw and cooked foods
To avoid cross-contamination, always keep raw and cooked foods separate. Use different cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked food, and make sure to wash them thoroughly in hot soapy water between uses.
Cook food to the appropriate temperature
Cooking food to the appropriate temperature is crucial in ensuring that it’s safe to eat. Use a food thermometer to check that your meats, poultry, and fish are cooked to the recommended temperatures.
Refrigerate leftovers promptly
After your Christmas meal, refrigerate any leftovers to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Divide leftovers into small containers for quicker cooling, and use them within three to four days.
Step 6: Decorating the Christmas Dining Table
After all the hard work of preparing and cooking the perfect Christmas meal, it’s time to focus on the finishing touches by decorating the dining table.
Here’s what you can do to make your Christmas table look festive and inviting.
Related: 50+ Christmas Decoration Ideas
Choosing a Christmas theme
When it comes to choosing a Christmas theme for your dining table, you have a plethora of options to choose from.
You can go for a classic red and green color scheme, a winter wonderland theme with icy blue and white tones, or a rustic theme with natural elements like pinecones and burlap.
Table setting ideas for Christmas
Now that you’ve settled on a theme, it’s time to set the table.
A simple way to elevate your table setting is by using a tablecloth or table runner that complements your theme. If you have Christmas-themed plates or glasses, now is the perfect time to use them.
To add some extra flair, you can also use Christmas-themed napkins and napkin holders. A small touch like this can make a difference in the overall look and feel of the table.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and colors to create a unique and personalized look.
Add some greenery to the table with a festive centerpiece. You can use a traditional Christmas floral arrangement or a simple yet elegant display of evergreen branches and pinecones. Candles can also add a cozy and warm ambiance to the table.
Centerpiece and other decorative ideas
A stunning centerpiece can tie your Christmas table decor together and make a statement.
Consider using a tall vase filled with seasonal flowers, a cluster of pillar candles of varying heights, or a display of festive ornaments in a bowl or tray.
Step 7: Managing Leftovers After the Christmas Meal
After the Christmas meal, it’s common to have leftovers. Managing them properly is important to ensure that they remain safe to eat and don’t go to waste.
Storage tips for leftovers
When it comes to storing leftovers, it’s important to do it safely to avoid foodborne illnesses. Here are some tips:
Divide leftovers into small containers
Dividing your leftovers will allow for quicker cooling and make it easier to reheat later on.
Label and date the containers
This tip will help you keep track of what you have and how long it’s been in the fridge.
Store in the fridge for two hours
Leftovers should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
Use up your leftovers as soon as you can
To avoid overstuffing your fridge, try to use up your leftovers within three to four days. If you have a lot of leftovers, consider freezing some for later use.
Just make sure to store them in freezer-safe containers and label them with the contents and date.
Creative recipe ideas for Christmas meal leftovers
After the hustle and bustle of the Christmas meal, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut with leftovers. But fear not, there are plenty of creative recipe ideas that can take your leftovers to the next level.
Turkey pot pie
Dice up your leftover turkey and mix it with some vegetables and gravy. Pour the mixture into a pie crust and bake until golden brown.
Ham and cheese sliders
Layer slices of ham, cheese, and leftover rolls to create a delicious sandwich. Brush the tops with melted butter and pop them in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Fritters
Take your leftover mashed potatoes, mix in some flour and an egg, and form them into small fritters. Fry them in some oil until golden brown and serve with a dollop of sour cream or cranberry sauce on top.
Soup
Your leftover vegetables and meat can make a hearty soup. Add some broth, seasonings, and even some leftover stuffing to make it extra flavorful.
Stir-fry
Slice up your leftover meats and vegetables and stir-fry them with some soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Serve over rice or noodles for a quick and easy meal.
Final Thoughts
The Christmas meal is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. To make your Christmas meal preparation stress-free, proper planning is key.
Start by taking into account your Christmas meal requirements and setting a budget. Then, plan what dishes and drinks you want to prepare. From here, you can focus on decorating your dining table with a festive theme and creating a beautiful centerpiece.
Once the meal is over, don’t let the leftovers go to waste. Take the time to safely store them and try out some creative recipe ideas to make the most out of your Christmas meal.
At the end of the day, it’s not just about the food. It’s about coming together with loved ones and creating memories that will last a lifetime. So sit back, relax, and savor the delicious meal and time spent with those closest to you. Merry Christmas!
Appendices
Sample Christmas meal plan
Starter:
Tomato and mozzarella bites with basil and balsamic sauce
Side dishes:
Mashed potatoes with bacon
Green beans in creamy sauce
Salads:
Apple salad with candied walnuts
Bread:
Garlic knots
Main course:
Prime rib with wine sauce
Dessert:
Chocolate cake
Drinks:
Merlot
Pomegranate spritz
Checklist for Christmas meal planning
Here’s a sample checklist to make your meal-planning experience more seamless.
2 to 3 weeks before:
- Invite your family and friends. Don’t forget to ask about dietary restrictions. From here, decide what you’ll be cooking.
2 weeks before
- Do a kitchen inventory for your essentials such as utensils, appliances, pots, pans, silverware, and glassware.
- Review your recipe.
1 week before
- Order your wine and drinks online or buy them in the grocery store.
- Confirm the attendance of your guests.
4 days before
- Make room in your fridge.
3-4 days before
- Do your grocery shopping in-store or online.
- Freeze anything you want fresh.
2 days before
- Prepare your prime rib by patting it dry. Then, set it on a rack and season it liberally with salt and pepper. Place it uncovered in your fridge (2-4 days) to have a darker crust.
- Candy your walnuts and prepare the salad dressing .
- Blanch your green beans.
The day before
- Do a last shop for fresh ingredients.
- Prep your recipes in advance by dicing and mixing whatever needs to be done. You may cook or bake them in advance and then store them in the fridge.
- Make your mashed potatoes (don’t add the bacon yet).
- Bake the dough for the garlic knots.
- Bake your chocolate cake.
- Clean your house.
- Set your table.
Christmas Day
- Cook your prime rib (factor in time for 30 minutes rest).
- Assemble your salad.
- Assemble your starter.
- Prepare your beans with creamy sauce.
- Reheat the bread and brush it with the butter garlic glaze.
- Microwave your mashed potato.
- Deep fry or bake the bacon and add it to the mashed potato.
- Prepare the knots by removing them from the fridge. Once heated, brush it with garlic butter with seasonings.
- Prepare your pomegranate spritz.
- Refrigerate your merlot 15 minutes before serving.
Recipes for suggested dishes and drinks
Here are the recipes for the suggested meals. All these recipes serve 8 people.
Mashed potato with bacon
- 2 pounds potatoes, scrubbed and cut into chunks
- 4 slices of bacon
- 2/3 cup buttermilk to low-fat milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper (freshly ground)
- 4 sliced scallions
- 2/3 cup sour cream
How to make it:
Step 1
Place the potatoes in a saucepan and cover it with water. Bring it to a simmer then reduce the heat until the potatoes are tender. Drain the potatoes and transfer to a large bowl.
Step 2
Mash the potatoes, milk, salt, and pepper with a masher. All the liquid should be fully incorporated. Depending on your preference, leave out some chunks. Then, fold in the sour cream and scallions.
Step 3
Put the potatoes in a microwavable container and cover it with a plastic punched with holes. Put in the fridge until it is ready to be reheated.
Step 4
Reheat it on Christmas day. After reheating the mashed potato, deep fry or bake the bacon. Mix in half and crumble the remaining half on top.
Green beans in creamy sauce
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds green beans (snapped and trimmed)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons parmesan cheese (grated)
- salt and pepper to taste
How to make it:
Step 1
Blanche your green beans a couple of days before Christmas. Cook it until it’s bright green and barely tender. Drain and put it in iced water.
Step 2
On Christmas day, melt butter in a skillet and whisk in the cream, parmesan, and salt and pepper. Then, stir the beans and return to a simmer.
Step 3
Before serving, sprinkle more parmesan.
Apple salad with candied walnuts
Ingredients:
Salad:
- 4 red apples (finely sliced, make sure to remove seeds)
- Lemon juice (to stop the apple from browning)
- 500 grams of mixed salad leaves
- 2 red onions
- 1 ½ cup dried cranberries
- 4 tablespoons feta or goats cheese for garnish
Candied walnuts:
- 2 cups walnuts
- 1 cup white sugar
- 4 tablespoon butter
Dressing:
- 5 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ cup olive oil (add more to make it creamier)
- 8 tablespoons cider vinegar (add more to make it more tart)
- 5 teaspoons sugar (add to make it sweeter)
- Pepper to taste
How to make it:
Dressing:
Step 1
Put all the ingredients in one jar and shake.
Candied nuts:
Step 1
Make this a few days before Christmas. First, place the butter in a non-stick skillet and melt it over medium heat. Once melted, add sugar and stir until most of it has melted.
Step 2
When you see the sugar bubbling, add the nuts and stir for 2 minutes.
Step 3
Finally, pour out the nuts in a parchment paper and spread it. Once cool, Roughly chop the nuts and store them in an airtight container.
Salad:
Step 1
Cut up the apples, drizzle with lemon juice, and toss.
Step 2
Place all the ingredients in a bowl and drizzle half of the dressing, then toss.
Step 3
Scatter more cranberries, nuts, and feta on top. Then, drizzle with more dressing.
Garlic knots
Ingredients:
- Store-bought pizza dough
Garlic butter coating:
- 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup of parsley (minced)
How to make it:
Step 1
Cut up the pizza dough into strips, then form the knots. Brush it with a little olive oil.
Step 2
Bake it for 12 to 15 minutes in a 400F oven. Let it cool down and freeze until it’s ready for reheating on Christmas day.
Step 3
Once the bread is ready, melt the butter and add the garlic to the pan and cook gently for 2 minutes. Mix the ingredients for the glaze, and brush the knots with it.
Prime rib with wine sauce
Ingredients:
- 7-pound bone-in prime rib roast
- Black pepper (coarsely ground)
- Salt
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 2 cups red wine
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
- 4 cups beef stock
How to make it:
Step 1
Before Christmas, prepare the rib. Pat it dry, and season it with salt and pepper. Then, put it in your fridge.
Then, prepare the glaze. Add butter to your pan, then add the beef stock and wine. Cook until the liquid is reduced in half. This takes around 20 minutes.
Step 2
On Christmas day, preheat your oven to 450F.
Step 3
Place it on a rack and roast it for 30 minutes. After, turn down the oven temperature to 350F. Roast the rib until it reads 130F for medium rare.
Step 4
Transfer the rib to a platter and cover it with foil to keep it warm.
Step 5
Reheat the glaze. Slice the meat between the bones and drizzle the glaze over it.
Tomato and mozzarella bites with basil and balsamic sauce
Ingredients:
- 20 toothpicks
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 20 cherry tomatoes (halved)
- Fresh mozzarella balls (also called bocconcini)
- ¼ cup balsamic glaze (store-bought)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make it:
Step 1:
Assemble the tomato half, basil, mozzarella, and another tomato half in the toothpick.
Step 2
Drizzle with the balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper.
Chocolate cake
Ingredients:
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (or brewed coffee)
Buttercream frosting
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups butter softened
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup milk as needed
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 7 cups powdered sugar
How to make it:
Cake:
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350F. Then, lightly grease a 9-inch cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2
In a mixing bowl, mix all your dry ingredients.
Step 3
Slowly incorporate the eggs, water, vanilla, and oil, and mix. Don’t forget to scrape the sides to ensure everything is well-incorporated.
Step 4
Bake it for 30 to 35 minutes. Insert a toothpick and make sure it comes out clean.
Step 5
Cool the cake on a rack before adding the frosting.
Buttercream frosting:
Step 1
Use a hand or stand mixer to beat the butter and cream cheese for 3 minutes, or until it becomes fluffy.
Step 2
Add the vanilla extract and cocoa powder. Then, beat in the powdered sugar one cup at a time. If it’s not spreadable, add the milk.
Step 3
Transfer the frosting into a piping bag and assemble the cake. Then, put it in the fridge.
Pomegranate Spritz
Ingredients:
- Sparkling water
- Pomegranate juice (adjust according to preference)
- Lime juice (adjust according to preference)
How to make it:
Step 1
Mix all the ingredients in a large pitcher and stir. Then, put it in the fridge. Upon serving, add ice, pomegranate seeds, and lime slices.