The holiday season is upon us and preparations for holiday celebrations have already begun. Planning ahead of time for your hosted holiday events can save you a lot of time and stress. You can also create a unique holiday meal that is unique and unlike anyone else?s. If you are looking for a way to spice up your holiday meal this year, without the added stress or costs, consider these ideas.
Create a menu ahead of time
When you sit down and create a menu, you can make changes as needed. You can also begin picking up needed ingredients ahead of time, which can save you a lot. It is never too early to begin creating your holiday menu. Think about who will be attending and what their eating preferences are. Factor in any dietary restrictions and avoid any foods with those ingredients. Avoid the crazy shopping season by purchasing items that are nonperishable now. When it comes time to grocery shop for the meal, you will notice that you can save both time and funds.
Opt for a different meat this year
The holidays are usually celebrated with a turkey. However, this does not mean that you are required to serve a turkey. It is likely that both you and your other guests are eating many turkey dinners with all of the holiday celebrations they are attending. Instead of a turkey, try a beef dinner. Beef is affordable, easy to cook, and can be customized for any type of meal. Go with a higher quality beef product for increased taste and health. Grass fed beef currently accounts for less than 3% of all beef sales in the U.S. Your grass fed beef meal will be unique both for the holidays and as a different type of beef. Americans, on average, eat about 66.5 pounds of beef every year. You might even find that more guests prefer your beef meal than the other option of turkey.
Don?t be afraid to go with everyday favorites
You also don?t have to be afraid to go with everyday favorite beef meals, such as hamburgers or steaks. You can also purchase grass fed steak products. This beef from grass fed cows has higher levels of omega 3 fatty acids and offers more vitamins A and E. Serving a free range pork or high quality steak meal will be just as appreciated as a turkey dinner. In fact, because high quality steak dinners tend to be more expensive, your guests are likely to be extremely pleased with the meal menu.
Order your menu items online
You also can avoid the busy grocery shopping meat trip. Today, many meat suppliers sell their products online. You can buy steaks online, as well as beef, chicken, and even turkey. Even if you choose to go with a traditional holiday meal of turkey and stuffing, you can also order these items online. Simply calculate how much food you need and then schedule your grass fed meat delivery. When everyone else is fighting for the last few turkeys and standing in long lines at the grocery store, you can sit back and relax.
Arrange a potluck meal
Another option to cut down on the stress of shopping for and cooking a large traditional holiday meal is to arrange a potluck meal. Instead of the generic potluck, request that each guest bring a unique menu item. You can frequent local meat farmers and choose the best meat options locally. You can also purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. If each guest does the same, you are left with an entirely unique and delicious holiday meal.
The holiday season does not have to be overwhelming and stressful. You don?t have to do everything how it is traditionally done. Instead of a normal turkey dinner with all of the fixings, consider a beef or steak dinner. Arrange a potluck with your family and friends and make your own traditional holiday meal. Order food online to avoid hectic shopping times. With these tips, you can handle the holiday preparations with less stress and cost.
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