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Editor’s note: This article was sponsored by the Dairy Farmers of Washington
One of my favorite things to do during the holiday season is host. And while I would never claim “hostess with the mostess” status, I love an excuse to get friends and family together around a good meal. However, as a working mom of three, my entertaining aspirations are often waylaid by sibling squabbles, homework help and orthodontic emergencies (that’s life with two teens).
That busyness is often compounded by the typical challenges that come with hosting — finding recipes that don’t take much prep and are healthy. As Brianne Cowan, a registered dietitian nutritionist with the Dairy Farmers of Washington, and mom to a 1-year-old, points out, “Holidays often bring together many people with many different eating patterns which can pose challenges. … Trying to find the balance between overindulging and not missing out can be hard to navigate. Making some healthful choices can add up.” She continues, “Sweet potatoes still have an abundance of nutrients even if they are paired with brown sugar.”
I love adding riced cauliflower to mashed potatoes to increase everyone’s veggie intake (no complaints yet!). Cowan’s mashed potato trick is another way to add nutritional value and save prep time. She explains, “I have no shame in the boxed mashed potato game, but I make sure to use milk instead of water. The use of milk provides extra nutrients including protein and vitamin D — essentials for the holiday season.” She also recommends a post-meal walk as a way to infuse activity into your holiday entertainment plans.
Whether you’re hosting the whole neighborhood or immediate family this year, these nine recipe ideas, created by Seattle-area chefs and food influencers, will help make your holiday entertaining carefree.
Appealing appetizers
Baked Brie dip
Baked Brie has long been a reliable appetizer for a reason: It’s hard to go wrong with creamy, soft cheese and endless topping possibilities. Simply, pop it in the oven and then plate. This recipe includes a honey, garlic and herb topping.
Cheese stuffed mushrooms
Cowan is a fan of stuffed mushrooms because of their versatility, and this recipe brings the heat. Choose your favorite kind of cheese to make them. Cowan suggests topping it with a walnut rather than bacon if you have vegetarians at your event.
Herbed paneer
Homemade paneer is easier to make than you’d think. Plus, it can be seasoned to suit the occasion and your guests’ tastes. Cut it into bite-sized squares and serve it as a healthy appetizer that even kids will devour.
Bolinhas de queijo
Use panko breadcrumbs to make these cheese balls that are just as tasty plain as they are with a sauce for dipping or drizzling. The gooey Swiss cheese-middle will leave everyone wanting more.
Decadent desserts
Holiday sugar cookies with buttercream frosting
I make my sugar cookies over the course of three days: I make the dough on day one. Roll and cut it on day two. And I frost them with the kids on day three. Leave these out for guests (or Santa) and you won’t regret it.
Pomegranate frozen yogurt bark
Greek yogurt, dark chocolate and pomegranates give this frozen yogurt its healthy street cred. Cowan suggests playing around with the ingredients. “You can sprinkle on some shredded coconut or diced-up dried figs for a seasonal flair. The options are endless.”
Ice cream tarts
These small desserts will help keep your holiday dessert table balanced. They’re the right size to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging. Add the fruit topping of your choice to fit the season.
Festive drinks
Ivan’s spiked eggnog
‘Tis the season for this holiday favorite. Whether you make yours with or without alcohol, this crowd-pleasing homemade recipe will warm up everyone at your gathering.
Lindsay’s homemade hot chocolate
It wouldn’t be winter without a few cups of creamy hot cocoa. Use this scratch-made recipe before your guests arrive and greet them with a steamy cup at the door.
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