Do you have people pop by constantly to say “Merry Christmas” and “Happy New Year” and you’re stuck!? You think, ‘What do I serve them!?’. These are the must haves I keep stocked over the week between Christmas Eve-Eve to New Years Day:
Cheese – Most people love cheese! It’s filling, fancy looking and easy to store!
Brie seems to be an all around favourite for most folks. So it’s one I would recommend. It’s looks great and will make your guests (or you!) happy! I like double or triple cream varieties- they just taste better! sorry, waist-line. I also love a Guiness infused cheddar (OMG!) and my husband and I both love a good strong old cheddar cheese. Farmhouse Artisan Cheese in Oakville is a fantastic place to get quality cheeses. The staff are lovely and this store is stocked full of amazing home-ware and hostess gifts. I love this store!
Fig spread. Put this on top of the brie and watch your guests go nuts! It’s not too strong or sweet – it compliments the brie perfectly. I’ve tried cranberry and other berry compotes – not the same — too tart. Try this fig spread – it’s so good! I got mine at Fortino’s.
Pate – I literally can’t open a package and not think of my Gammy. She always served this and the smell just rushes me back to fun evenings in her condo when we came over for dinner. (she’d make lamb and would tell us kids it was chicken so we’d eat it :’D ) Some folks aren’t pate fans, but most are – I think it’s a nice thing to add to your spread. Garlic and Wine is my go-to.
Fruit – this time of year my fridge always has clementines (so Christmasy!) grapes and apples stocked. Toss those into your spread as well. This time of year is full of high sugar, fat, carb-loaded treats – some healthy lighter options are a nice addition.
Breads & Crackers: I love a good olive loaf! It’s either that or a fresh baguette for me. The Olive loaf gives that nice hit of salt in the bread and it looks great! I added some cedar and tomatoes for a festive look 🙂
Dips & Spreads: I love a good dip. Kurtz Orchards in Niagara-on-the-Lake puts a dent in my wallet each annual Christmas visit we make. Much of their selection is put out to sample and their dips and spreads are delicious! I love to stock up on these and keep them handy for expected or unexpected visits because it’s just so easy to dump some dip in a bowl and serve with crackers or bread. These are my Favourite dips:
And my absolute favourite is Red Pepper Garlic.
I also love to make chocolate covered clementines. It’s so easy and they taste great. I get a huge sugar craving this time of year – these really hit the spot but a bit of a healthier option than the usual Toblerone I scarf down :$
I’ll post this recipe shortly. It’s a goodie!
Happy Holidays!!! Much love, joy and relaxation to you and your family!
Tori
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