I’m genetically predisposed to be a procrastinator, which is pretty inconvenient this time of year when gifts need wrapping, cards need sending and the fabulous holiday feast I’m making needs to grace the table—all in a short period of time. This year, I’m fighting my tendency to put everything off until the last minute by preparing some of my Christmas recipes [6] ahead of time. The holiday side dishes and desserts [7] I’m making can all be started a day or more in advance. That way when I look at the calendar and realize that Christmas is practically on top of me, I can give myself the gift of knowing that at least some of the work is done.
Pomegranate Poached Pears [8]—This dessert takes only 30 minutes of active time and makes a striking finale to any festive meal. Pears simmered in a blend of tart pomegranate juice and sweet dessert wine are served with a sprinkling of pomegranate seeds and toasted almonds. A touch of tangy reduced-fat sour cream adds even more flavor.
Maple-Roasted Sweet Potatoes [9]—Roasting sweet potatoes is even easier than boiling and mashing them—this yummy dish requires just 10 minutes of your attention. Maple syrup glaze transforms this ultra-simple dish into something sublime.
Garlicky Green Beans [10]—We quick-cook and cool the green beans in advance so they can be heated up and seasoned moments before the meal.
Holiday Cranberry-Orange Pistachio Bars [11]—It only takes 20 minutes to pull together these tart-and-tangy bar cookies, stuffed with bright red cranberries and toasted green pistachios. They hold well in both the refrigerator and the freezer so they're an excellent make-ahead option.
What are your "must have" Christmas sides and desserts? Tell us what you think below.
TAGS: Hilary Meyer [2], Food Blog [12]
EatingWell Associate Food Editor Hilary Meyer spends much of her time in the EatingWell Test Kitchen, testing and developing healthy recipes. She is a graduate of New England Culinary Institute.
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[6] http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes_menus/collections/christmas
[7] http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes_menus/collections/healthy_holiday_sides_desserts
[8] http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/pomegranate_poached_pears.html
[9] http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/maple_roasted_sweet_potatoes.html
[10] http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/garlicky_green_beans.html
[11] http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/holiday_cranberry_orange_pistachio_bars.html
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[13] http://www.eatingwell.com/blogs/food_blog/meat_lover_s_quinoa_veggie_burger
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[15] http://www.eatingwell.com/blogs/food_blog/healthy_spring_salad_recipe_with_fresh_peas_and_crispy_fried_shallots
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[17] http://www.eatingwell.com/blogs/food_blog/vegetarian_thai_red_curry
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[19] http://www.eatingwell.com/blogs/food_blog/how_to_make_cream_sauce_without_cream
[20] http://www.eatingwell.com/node/276908?section=comments#tabs
[21] http://www.eatingwell.com/blogs/food_blog/3_diy_tortilla_tricks_how_to_make_your_own_taco_shells_taco_bowls_and_tortilla_chips
[22] http://www.eatingwell.com/node/276907?section=comments#tabs
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