Tips for Avoiding Holiday Cooking Stress

Cooking dinner for the holidays is so stressful for the hostess during a family gathering, friend's party, or a family party. Even if you plan your meals and prepare the meals in advance, it is still stressful cooking them. However, it is helpful to have a schedule for your dinner so you can have plenty of time to cook your meal. Make sure you have your pots, pans, kitchen towels, and cooking utensils washed and dried. Also, make sure your pots, pans, and skillets are in good condition and have sturdy handles.

If your family has potlucks, make sure you use your leftovers and be creative in using them to make a different meal. Have a family member bring apple cider, juice, or other nonalcoholic drinks to go with your dinner. If for some reason, your family members want to have an alcoholic drink, keep it away from your teens and younger kids. Also, have another family member bring appetizers which will make it easier for you to focus on cooking your dinner meal. Similarly, another family member can bring a dessert to go with your dinner.

The more your family members help you in preparing your meals the less stressful it will be for you. Use your time wisely. Take advantage of pre-packaged salads, canned foods, and pre-packaged boxes to do cooking shortcuts. Limit the side dishes, especially if you have lots of appetizers. Use a timer to spend two or three hours cooking in your kitchen.

Put your sauces and condiments in a tray to have them ready before your family has their dinner. In this way, your family can select mustard, barbeque, soy sauce, teriyaki, or chili sauce. Use small containers for dividing each side dish between the plates. Make sure you have enough plates, silverware, cups, Mason jars, and straws. Use one centerpiece to decorate your dining table so it is easier to remove it before your meal. 

Some side dishes can be prepared one day ahead which will help you to enjoy your family gathering. Make sure you have enough containers to store the leftover food and for people to take the leftover food to their homes. Once the meal is cooked, you can take some time for yourself before the festivity. One or two family members can set the dining table. While another family member can direct the music, card games, or game boards.

Cooking dinner should be a relaxing time for the hostess to have a good time with the family. The less family stress, tension, and nervousness the better it will be for the entire family. The holidays are a joyful time with the family and a good time to get to know your family members. Here are websites about avoiding holiday cooking stress. Merry Christmas and happy holidays. 

How to Avoid Holiday Cooking Stress, According to Katie Lee Biegel-Exclusive-Mashed: 

How To Avoid Holiday Cooking Stress, According To Katie Lee Biegel - Exclusive (mashed.com)

12 Tips for Cooking Christmas Dinner so it's Stress-Free-Taste of Home:

12 Tips for Cooking Christmas Dinner So It's Stress-Free | Taste of Home

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