It’s almost Thanksgiving, my favorite time of the year.  But, as we all know, this Turkey Day is going to be a little different than what we’re accustomed to.  The process of cooking Thanksgiving dinner may be different, as well, especially if you’ve decided to just celebrate with only your immediate family.

In any event, cooking the traditional holiday meal can get stressful, so here are my tips on how to make the most of this Thanksgiving with your loved ones:

Set the Table a Few Days in Advance

Preparing the table beforehand is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety on the Big Day.  I spend a lot of time researching great tablescapes and then once I’ve decided on the look I want to present, I set the table a few days in advance.  Then, the night before Thanksgiving, I set the glasses and silverware so they don’t gather dust.

Engage Family Members

Engage the whole family in selecting the menu and preparing the feast.  Even little ones can help stir and sort ingredients.  This is a great way to promote togetherness, and it also reduces the load on the person in your family who is in charge of the cooking!

Prepare as Much as Possible Ahead of Time

Thanksgiving can be far less stressful when planning and preparing early.  Many of the traditional dishes can be prepared the day before and then frozen, such as casseroles and desserts.   I like to create a cooking schedule for the week, so everything is planned out and organized.  This reduces stress on Thanksgiving and allows me to enjoy more, the day of.

Shop Early

Shop early and freeze items, as there may be food shortages due to COVID.

Connect Virtually

For all those friends and family members who won’t get to celebrate with you in-person this year, don’t forget to connect virtually! Lajollacooks4u offers unique virtual cooking events that are ideal this holiday season.  To learn more, please visit www.lajollacooks4u.com.

 

Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!