Stocking-the-Pantry-for-Holiday-Parties
December 7, 2011
•Le Cordon Bleu
•Chicago
• 0 Comments
Stocking the Pantry for Holiday Parties
The holidays are here again and that means big family dinners and entertaining friends and coworkers with Christmas parties. The best way to keep holiday stress at bay is to be prepared ahead of time for last minute impromptu parties. Here are a few things to keep in the kitchen this holiday season so that you are prepared for all of your culinary arts needs.
Assorted Cheeses and Crackers
Whether it is carolers arriving unexpectedly at your front door or a neighbor dropping off cookies, cheese and crackers is the perfect appetizer or mid-afternoon snack. Try to stock a variety of cheeses such as cow, goat or sheep’s milk cheese as well a variety of textures and flavors. If you don’t want to put out more than three at a time a perfect trio is nice sharp cheddar, a creamy French Brie and a crumbly blue cheese. Keeping a baguette in the freezer is the perfect way to have fresh bread on hand at a moment’s notice and a variety box of crackers is a great way to offer an assortment of crackers without overstocking your pantry. For an extra special touch serve with any fruits that you may have on hand such as pears, apples or grapes.
Assorted Beverages
If you are planning on having a lot of guests over this holiday season be sure to keep plenty of beverages on hand. Hot cocoa is perfect for young and old visitors alike and a nice assortment of beer and wine will make a hit with the adult crowd.
Christmas Cookies
When all else fails, a sure crowd pleaser is a plate of homemade assorted Christmas cookies. These seasonal staples are easy to bake ahead of time and keep in the freezer until needed. Not only are they great for last minute get-togethers but are also the perfect last minute gift for a teacher or neighbor.
Assorted Olives, Pickles and Veggies
When company stops by unannounced it’s a good idea to have a few snack items on hand. Putting out simple dishes of nuts, pickles and olives can be simple cocktail fare or an afternoon snack. Having an assortment of veggies like carrots, celery and grape tomatoes along with some ranch dressing or salsa is another great way to put out finger food fast.
If you love to entertain and would like to learn more about the culinary arts attending a cooking school in Chicago is a great way to learn new techniques that you can show off at your next holiday party.
This article is presented by Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Chicago. Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Chicago offers culinary arts and pâtisserie and baking training programs in Chicago, Illinois. To learn more about the class offerings, please visit Chefs.edu/Chicago for more information.
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