Stress-Free Holiday Entertaining Tips

(Family Features) The holiday season is meant for spending quality time with friends and family, not stressing out over hosting. With some simple tips, you can cut down on hectic preparations while creating a memorable holiday full of food and fun guests can savor.

Consider these suggestions from the entertaining experts at Real California Milk:

Plan Ahead
Heading into your seasonal soiree with a plan in place can help avoid snafus. Make a shopping list of ingredients and decorations. Then put together a schedule a few days prior to the event to cover last-minute preparations.

Elevate Holiday Classics
Elevating classic appetizers is a simple way to savor the season. A trend on the rise, the Grazing Table starts with the table as the canvas, adds elements of the traditional cheese board then takes it to the next level with an arrangement of appetizers or brunch dishes and seasonal decor. Another way to lift your holiday spread is using high-quality, authentic ingredients like Real California Milk cheeses, made with milk from California dairy farm families, which are key ingredients in this Sweet Citrus and Spice Cheese Board.

Prepare Dishes and Decorations in Advance
Preparing for guests can be one of the most time-consuming aspects of hosting. Decorating at least a day ahead and setting the table the night before, for example, can help minimize stress. Welcome guests with holiday cheer and trendy decor like a virtual yule log made of melting cheese, complete with holiday music.

For more holiday inspiration and recipes like antipasto skewers and yogurt-pesto dip, queso fundido and cheese logs and bundts, visit realcaliforniamilk.com/recipes.

Grazing Table

• Toma cheese, sliced
• natural almonds
• prosciutto
• salami
• Real California aged cheddar, sliced
• Real California burrata cheese
• olive oil
• herbs
• blue cheese
• Real California braided marinated string cheese
• dry salami, sliced
• premade antipasto skewers
• yogurt pesto dipping sauce
• Real California aged Gouda
• brie cheese
• Real California cheese log
• Real California cheese bundts
• dry jack cheese
• sweet red piquante peppers
• green California olives
• premade Real California queso fundido
• breadsticks
• tortilla chips
• dark chocolate sea salt caramels
• dried citrus, such as oranges and lemons
• artisan bread, sliced

1. On large board, plate or tray, arrange sliced toma cheese, almonds, prosciutto, salami and aged cheddar. In center, place burrata cheese and top with olive oil and herbs.
2. On separate small plate, place blue cheese; crumble.
3. On medium board, arrange braided string cheese and dry salami slices.
4. On serving platter, arrange antipasto skewers around bowl of yogurt pesto dipping sauce.
5. On separate small cheese board, place Gouda, brie cheese and cheese log.
6. On slate, arrange cheese bundts. On separate plate, place dry jack cheese.
7. In separate bowls, place piquante peppers and green olives.
8. Arrange boards, plates, bowls and skillet of queso fundido on table, as desired.
9. Fill blank spaces on table with breadsticks, tortilla chips, dark chocolate sea salt caramels, dried oranges, dried lemons and bread slices. Add floral arrangements and holiday decor for finishing touches. Complete table with cheese knives and spreaders.

Sweet Citrus and Spice Cheese Board

• Real California brie cheese
• black olives
• green olives
• dried oranges, sliced
• Real California pepper jack cheese sliced
• almonds
• raspberries
• blackberries
• Real California burrata cheese
• honey, for garnish
• fresh herbs, for garnish

1. To assemble cheese board: On large board, plate or tray, arrange brie cheese, olives, dried orange slices, sliced pepper jack cheese and almonds.
2. On smaller board, arrange raspberries and blackberries around burrata cheese placed in center of board. Garnish cheese with honey and fresh herbs. Place smaller board into empty space on larger board.

5 Hacks for Holiday Hosting

(Family Features) It may feel impossible to fit even more into already jam-packed days, but when the holidays roll around, entertaining and celebrating always find a way. Fortunately, you can find some shortcuts when hosting that offer plenty of festive style while also helping you avoid stressing over every detail.

This year, rely on some time-saving hacks so you’re not just throwing the holiday party, but enjoying some seasonal fun of your own.

Repurpose with purpose. There’s no need to make time for a trip to the store or to spend a bundle on party supplies. A pretty, oversized flowerpot or planter that has been cast aside for winter makes a perfect tub for icing down beverages. When it comes to decor, you can cover any old box with some of last year’s leftover holiday paper to add some colorful touches around the home. A similar idea: wrap canvas art or other frames in pretty paper to extend the theme up the walls.

Make easy attractive. Most holiday celebrations center on the food, but it’s still an area where you can shave some time. For example, a simple but attractive option like the wide selection of Chinet Classic White products is designed for practical use. They do not bend, fold or leak, and are strong enough for extra helpings no matter the occasion.

For a more elegant affair, the Chinet Cut Crystal collection is the only fully coordinated line of disposable plates, cups, cutlery and wineglasses. Guests will barely realize they’re not using the good china, but you’ll definitely notice when you’re able to skip time at the sink to spend more precious moments with your loved ones.

Fill the freezer. Whether your holiday entertaining is more impromptu in nature or you host a single sizable shindig, keeping a well-stocked freezer can help make hosting a cinch. Dedicate an afternoon to preparing items you can easily defrost and serve later, like casseroles, appetizers, side dishes and desserts.

Forgo fussy food. An elegant sit-down meal isn’t the only way to enjoy a holiday gathering. Guests may even appreciate a break from traditional heavier fare. Simple food stations, finger foods and even store-bought meals are all time-saving alternatives. Another time-saving option: dressing up store-bought food as part of a larger spread. For example, you can top side dishes like mashed potatoes with olive oil or butter and sprinkle with cheese or embellish a main course such as ham with rosemary sprigs and fresh fruit.

Keep cleanup simple. For a festive, yet deceptively easy table, consider using kraft paper as tablecloths and let some of that leftover wrapping paper do double-duty as table runners. Simply cut the wrapping paper to your desired length and fold the edges under to create clean seams. Match the DIY table coverings with a coordinated line of disposable tableware to make cleaning up a cinch.

Explore more hacks to simplify your holiday entertaining at MyChinet.com.

Holiday Guesting 101

(Family Features) If you manage to avoid hosting duties this holiday season, you may be dodging some of the hardest work, but remember that being a good guest goes beyond arriving on time and taking your shoes off at the door. This holiday season, ensure your host gets to enjoy the festivities by putting these ideas to practice – it may earn you an invitation for years to come.

Make a holiday playlist.  Offer to put together a holiday playlist for the host who will undoubtedly have his or her hands full prepping for the holiday celebration. Try to choose songs specific to the guests, host and overall theme. A good playlist can be a conversation starter for everyone at the party.

Don't arrive empty-handed. Even if your host shrugs off an offer for help, a gesture of appreciation is always appropriate. It may be a bottle of wine, a seasonal flower arrangement or, better yet, an appetizer or dessert to share, such as this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Banana Cake. This crowd-pleasing cake is made using a Crock-Pot® Cook & Carry Slow Cooker, which has a locking lid and travel clips to help you get to your holiday celebration without making a mess. The 6-quart, removable pot can be used as a serving dish, and is dishwasher safe to make clean-up a breeze.

Stay off your phone. It may seem obvious, but these days, looking at your phone is almost as habitual as breathing, and chances are you don’t mean to appear standoffish or rude by sneaking a quick peek. However, playing with your phone can detract from time you get to spend with family and friends, many of whom you probably don’t get to see often. Tuck away your phone for the party and live in the moment.

Pitch in to help clean. No host likes to be stuck in the kitchen while the rest of the party carries on. After the meal, offer your help to clear the table, put away perishable items and get the kitchen back in order so your host can join the merry-making. If you’ll be opening gifts, grab a garbage bag and collect debris to help keep the mess under control.

Find more holiday recipes and tips at Crock-Pot.com.

Slow Cooker Banana Cake

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 4 hours
Servings: 12

• Crock-Pot® Cook & Carry Slow Cooker
• nonstick cooking spray
• 3          cups flour
• 1 1/2    teaspoons baking soda 
• pinch of salt
• 3-4       ripe bananas
• 2          lemon wedges, juice only
• 3/4       cup butter, softened
• 1 1/2    cups honey or 2 cups white sugar
• 3          eggs
• 1          teaspoon vanilla
• 1 1/2    cups almond milk
• cream cheese frosting

1. Grease slow cooker with nonstick spray.
2. In medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.
3. In small bowl, mash bananas and lemon juice together; set aside.
4. In large bowl, use mixer to cream butter and honey. Add eggs and mix well. Stir in vanilla then milk. Gradually add flour mixture. Once combined, stir in mashed bananas.
5. Pour into slow cooker. Cover; cook on low 6 hours or high 4 hours, or until center of cake no longer looks gooey.
6. Uncover and let cake cool. Once completely cooled, frost cake and, if desired, top with sliced bananas and walnuts.

Notes: If adding bananas, do so just before serving or they will brown. If using a non-oval slow cooker, cook 1 hour less on high heat or 2 hours less on low heat.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Prepare Your Home for Holiday Guests

(Family Features) Welcoming friends and family into your home, celebrating time-honored traditions with delicious food and enjoying quality time with loved ones are all sure signs that it’s the most wonderful time of the year. However, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by holiday preparations and pressure to make your guests feel comfortable while visiting.

From loading up on pumpkin-scented candles to leaving out clean towels and upgrading that old air mattress to a real bed, it’s important to help loved ones relax when they’re away from home. Make the most of this holiday season with these handy tips from the experts at Mattress Firm to get each room of the house ready for guests.

Entryway
The first step into a home away from home for the holidays can set the tone for the entire visit, so make sure that first impression is a welcoming one. Incorporate lively seasonal decor into the space to create a cheerful, festive atmosphere. Be sure the area is free of clutter and make space for your guests’ shoes, coats and other personal items to send a message from the start that you’re happy to be hosting them.

Guest Bedroom
After a long journey, guests are sure to appreciate a clean, fresh bedroom, with personal touches to make them feel special. Make sure the pillows are fluffed and bedrooms are stocked with fresh linens, along with a few magazines or a good book. Test all lights and fans to confirm they’re working properly, and be sure an alarm clock is available. A notecard featuring your Wi-Fi network name and password can help your guests feel right at home.

For elderly guests, you may consider adding an adjustable base to your guest bed. Adjustable bases, including those available at Mattress Firm, are solid metal structures that fit twin- to king-sized mattresses and act as a movable foundation with the power to adjust the mattress into a variety of positions from reclining to inclining. These bases can be suitable for sleepers with chronic pain, sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or the average sleeper just looking for additional comfort.

Guest Bathroom
Although visitors are likely to carry their own toiletries, it can be awkward to discover a forgotten essential while in an unfamiliar home. Stock your guest bath with the basics to ensure guests have everything they need, such as extra toothpaste, shampoo, razors and deodorant. Also provide plenty of freshly laundered, fluffy towels and washcloths.

Living Room
Adding extra bodies to the household may put seating space at a premium, especially during the holidays when seasonal decorations take up extra room. Remove unnecessary items from the living area and add seating, if necessary, to ensure everyone can gather comfortably. It’s also a good idea to ensure there are ample flat surfaces and coasters available for beverages so you can comfortably visit well into the night.

Kitchen
For close friends or family, you’re likely to know their preferences and it’s easy to stock up on a few favorites ahead of time. If a new guest will be joining, be sure to ask about likes or dislikes as well as allergy or dietary needs ahead of time. Make a point to show first-time guests around the kitchen early in the stay so they can easily find anything they might need, such as a glass for water during the night.

For more tips and tricks on getting your home prepped for the busy holiday season, follow along with #SleepGiving or visit MattressFirm.com/blog.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Tips for Using Leftover Holiday Wine

(Family Features) Whether it’s a semi-full bottle of crisp white or a half-empty bottle of leftover red, there are creative ways to make the most of unused wine after all the holiday parties come to an end.

The World Wine Guys and Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits offer these ideas to help you put your leftover wine to good use this holiday season:

Make Red Wine Vinegar
Impress your guests by adding homemade red wine vinegar to your next dish. Add one part raw vinegar to two parts leftover red wine then store your mixture in a dark, cool place. Monitor periodically and keep testing until you get the desired vinegar smell, strain and refrigerate. Use as desired on salads and in homemade sauces and marinades.

Create Wine Ice Cubes
If you can't use your leftover white wine right away, pour the remaining liquid into ice trays and freeze. Next time you’re enjoying a glass, add some of the cubes to your wine to keep it cold. This trick can also work with a rosé or sparkling wine like Josh Cellars California Rosé or Enza Prosecco. Using the frozen wine cubes instead of ice can prevent what you pour from becoming too watered down.

Wine-Based Recipes
Both red and white wines can be used in a variety of different dishes from appetizers to desserts. Keep in mind that open bottles should be used within 2-3 days, so look to use your leftovers sooner rather than later. Try adding wine to a seasonal side dish like these White Wine Glazed Carrots. It can also be used as a savory addition to main courses such as this classic Red Wine Tomato Sauce.

For more information on wines for the holidays, visit WineFix.com.

White Wine Glazed Carrots

Recipe courtesy of Deutsch Family and the World Wine Guys, authors of "Red Wine "

• 6          medium carrots, halved lengthwise and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1          tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2    cups water
• 1          tablespoon honey
• 2          tablespoons Barone Fini Pinot Grigio
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste

1. In large skillet, combine carrots and olive oil; add water. Cook over medium-high heat until carrots are tender. Add honey and white wine; cook and stir 2 minutes until carrots are glazed.
2. Add salt and pepper, to taste.

Red Wine Tomato Sauce

Recipe courtesy of Deutsch Family and the World Wine Guys, authors of "Red Wine"

• 1          teaspoon olive oil
• 1          medium onion, finely chopped
• 3          cloves garlic, minced
• 1          can whole, peeled tomatoes
• 1/8       cup Villa Pozzi Nero D’Avola
• 1/4       cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4       teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/2       teaspoon dried sea salt
• 1/2       teaspoon oregano
• 1/2       teaspoon thyme
• 1/2       teaspoon basil

1. In medium-size pot, heat olive oil. Add onion and saute 4 minutes then add minced garlic and saute 1 minute. 
2. Add tomatoes, wine, vinegar, red pepper, sea salt, oregano, thyme and basil; reduce heat and simmer about 40 minutes.

Passing the Torch for Holiday Hosting

(Family Features) For most families, the holidays are filled with time-honored traditions, many that have been passed down from one generation to the next. However, when the time comes for the next generation to begin carrying the torch for those treasured traditions, the transition can be a bit bumpy.

For some, spending the holidays as a guest and not a host can be a bit unsettling after years of orchestrating the festivities. For inspiration, check out resources such as AARPAdvantages.com where AARP members can find savings on travel and gifting needs to help switch to the guest mindset. With the right approach, handing down traditions and helping your children host their first holiday can bring its own set of rewards.

Hand down the heirlooms. Although they may be deeply beloved items, as you pass on hosting duties, go ahead and pass on the family pieces that make the holidays complete. Watching your children and grandchildren enjoy a bountiful holiday meal using the same china your own grandmother set out for the holidays is sure to elicit warm memories and still enable you to enjoy them as you create new ones. Similarly, if there are ornaments or decorations that have held a place of honor in your home through the years, gift them to your children so those same memories can be created anew. Shipping these treasured items ahead of time can ensure gifts arrive safely and securely before your arrival.

Share the history. As your offspring begin taking on their hosting duties, be sure to explain the significance of any traditions they may not know. They may be aware that you always served a certain dish, but not realize it all began with a story involving a cherished loved one. This might also be the perfect time for the family to sit down together and research your history online. When you explore your heritage and learn about family members, everyone can feel more connected.

Offer suggestions, not directives. When you’ve established a pattern for hosting activities, it can be difficult to watch someone else take a different approach, especially if you see mistakes being made that you learned the hard way. Just remember that you, too, had to learn the ropes and sometimes slight mishaps create funny stories to share at future family occasions. You might offer tips and ideas from time to time, but once you’ve handed over the reins, allow the new driver to do the navigating. You may find yourself the recipient of a few panicked calls – or you may not. Either way, remain helpful in your new role while letting someone else establish theirs.

Be a good guest. As you may remember, hosting a holiday celebration can be stressful. Do your part to ease the nerves by being a gracious guest. Offering to bring a small item such as the centerpiece flowers can go a long way. Also practice traditional etiquette, such as cleaning up after yourself and honoring household practices like removing shoes at the door. If you’ll be traveling out of town, look for deals on hotels and car rentals available to AARP members at AARPAdvantages.com.

Handing over the holiday hosting role can feel a bit unsettling, but remember that passing on that responsibility gives you the opportunity to enjoy the festivities from a whole new vantage point.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images