Connect with us

Live Better

Handy hacks to take the stress out of holiday hosting

Published

on

(Family Features) Hosting is a big responsibility, especially during the holidays when the pressure is on to create a magical and memorable experience. Planning a menu and decorating for the occasion is just the start.

Hosting also means ensuring all dishes are cooked to perfection and kept warm until serving time, guests’ dietary needs are considered and table conversation topics are ready. Then, of course, there’s the post-dinner cleanup.

This holiday season, consider these tips to help tackle your hosting duties with grace and create an event you can enjoy, too.

Request RSVPs
Planning a party is even more complicated when you don’t know how many guests you’ll be entertaining. If you create a guest list and ask invitees to let you know their plans, you’ll have a better idea whether you should double your favorite dishes. You’ll also know who has special dietary needs and be able to plan a seating chart that puts everyone at ease. Be sure to include a date that gives guests a specific RSVP deadline and plenty of time for you to adjust your plans before the big day.

Meal Prep as Much as Possible
Get as much of the food preparation out of the way ahead of time as you can. Some dishes can be prepared and even cooked ahead of time so you’re just reheating, but you can also save a lot of time by organizing ingredients for the dishes that must be prepared the day of the event. A good rule of thumb: If it doesn’t have to wait until the day of the party, do it before. That frees up your time so you can handle any unexpected hiccups that arise without piling on more stress.

Simplify the Cleanup Situation
Rely on tried-and-true products that do the heavy lifting for you when it’s time to clean up after the meal. An option like Finish Ultimate Dishwashing Detergent cleans dishes in tough conditions, even without pre-rinsing, so you can focus on what matters during this time of year: spending more time with your loved ones. It removes tough stains like grease and cheese, as well as common holiday dishes like apple pie and mac and cheese. An added bonus: Since you don’t need to pre-rinse, you’ll save up to 20 gallons of water per dishwasher load.

Create Designated Spaces
Guests are likely to arrive with items in hand that need a place to go, like coats, shoes, handbags and gifts. Avoid clutter by determining ahead of time where you want to put these items. If you have a coat closet with space, that’s a good solution, but a nearby bedroom may also be an option. Especially if you’re hosting a potluck meal, be sure to plan ahead for where each course should go, with appetizer bars, dessert tables and a countertop with protective pads for warm foods.

Send Guests Off with a Parting Gift
A memorable event can be made even more so when guests have a token to take with them. Send everyone home on a happy note with a simple gift like a prewrapped holiday treat. Be sure to tuck these away someplace near the door so they’re a pleasant surprise you can access easily when guests begin to make their exits.

Find more ways to tackle holiday messes and make hosting duties a breeze by visiting finishdishwashing.com.

Post-Party Cleaning Tips

  1. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, especially from your partner or children.
  2. Prep your table the night before. Get sparkling dishes and glassware by using a product such as Finish Jet-Dry Rinse Aid, which assists in drying and helping your dishes shine when used in the rinse cycle.
  3. Start by collecting trash and clutter. Throw trash away and create piles of items that need returned to their proper places. Remember that taking a few extra minutes to organize things like seasonal decor as you go can help make next year’s event easier.
  4. Complete each job before moving to the next. Some prefer to tackle a room at a time while others prefer to finish a specific chore, like sweeping the floors throughout the house, before moving on.

Be realistic about what must be done before you sleep. Some tasks really do need immediate attention, like collecting and emptying glasses that could be spilled and safely storing leftover food. The rest can likely wait until after you get some rest.

Jalapeno Cornbread Mac and Cheese

Jalapeno Cornbread:

  • 1/2 cup butter, melted, plus additional for greasing pan
  • 1 cup medium grind cornmeal
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup corn
  • 1/2 cup chopped jalapeno (about 2 large jalapenos)

Mac and Cheese:

  • 1/2 pound dry macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter, plus additional for greasing pan
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 12 ounces shredded cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • pepper, to taste
  1. To make jalapeno cornbread: Preheat oven to 400 F. Butter 8-by-8-inch baking pan.
  2. In mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, 1/2 cup melted butter, corn and jalapeno.
  4. Add half the liquid ingredients to dry mixture, stirring just until blended. Add rest of liquid and stir until just blended. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 30-35 minutes, or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Set aside to cool.
  5. To make mac and cheese: Bring large pot of water to boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package directions. Drain under cold water and set aside.
  6. Preheat oven to 350 F. Butter 9-by-9-inch square baking dish.
  7. In heavy saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add flour and whisk over low heat 3-5 minutes, making sure not to brown.
  8. Whisk in milk and cook over medium heat, whisking often until mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  9. Stir in mustard and cheese. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Add macaroni and stir until noodles are coated with cheese mixture. Pour mixture into prepared pan. Use back of spoon or spatula to even out mixture in pan.
  10. Bake 25 minutes until mixture is bubbly.
  11. Remove from oven, turn oven to broil and place rack on second from top. Break up about 1/3-1/2 of the cornbread into small pieces; place even layer of broken-up cornbread over top of mac and cheese. Put mac and cheese under broiler until lightly browned. Serve immediately with remaining cornbread or make ahead and warm before serving.

Tip: For spicier cornbread, keep some jalapeno seeds intact

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock (woman serving meal and family dining together)


SOURCE:
Finish

Continue Reading

Live Better

5 tips for new pet owners

Published

on

(Family Features) Welcoming a new pet is exciting, but preparation is needed to provide a loving home and enjoy the unconditional love.

Prepare your furry friend for a new home with these essential tips for first-time pet owners.

Choose the Right Pet for Your Lifestyle
Consider your living situation, work schedule and personal preferences. Research different breeds to find the one that matches your activity level, living space and family dynamics. Also consider any allergies or sensitivities you or your family may have as some pets may trigger allergies or asthma symptoms.

Set Up Your Home
Before bringing your new pet home, create a safe and comfortable environment. Start by pet-proofing your home, removing any hazardous substances and securing loose wires or cords. Make sure to store cleaning supplies, medications and toxic plants out of reach. Provide a designated space that includes a cozy bed or crate, food and water bowls and toys.

Create a Routine
Establish a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise and bathroom breaks. Determine the appropriate amount and frequency of meals for your pet’s age, size and breed. Spend quality time with your pet daily, providing attention, affection and mental stimulation.

Budget for Your Pet’s Needs
Owning a pet comes with financial responsibilities. Consider the costs of food, grooming, veterinary care, vaccinations and preventive medications. Additionally, factor in the cost of toys, bedding, litter and other supplies.

Find a Reliable Veterinarian
Regular check-ups and open communication with a local veterinarian can help detect any potential health issues early and ensure your pet receives the best possible care. Ask friends, family or neighbors with pets for provider recommendations and read reviews. Visit potential veterinarians’ offices to meet the staffs, tour the facilities and ask any questions you may have.

Find more tips for welcoming a furry friend into your home at eLivingtoday.com .
 

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

Watch video to find out how!

https://youtube.com/watch?v=wZ4QNkPxHs4%3Fmodestbranding%3D1%26rel%3D0%26showinfo%3D0


SOURCE:
eLivingToday.com

Continue Reading

Live Better

6 steps to spring into lawn, garden care

Published

on

(Family Features) If cooler weather has you longing for sunny days outdoors, take heart. Once spring rolls around, you can prepare your yard for months of warm-weather enjoyment with these tips.

Watch video to find out how!

https://youtube.com/watch?v=1kFa151I_Bk%3Fsi%3DhRDoc0cP5cxAVse8%26controls%3D0
  1. Clear the Yard

Remove any leaves, rocks or sticks that may have accumulated then cut the grass as short as you can.
 

  1. Dethatch

Use a thatching rake to remove dead roots and grass.
 

  1. Treat Weeds

Apply herbicide to treat weed-infested areas. Allow the weed killer to work for about a week then rake to remove dead weeds.
 

  1. Add Seed and Fertilizer

Depending on your lawn’s needs, overseed or spot seed to fill in thin spots. Use a grass variety that matches your climate for best results. Select and apply fertilizer consistent with your grass type then water thoroughly.
 

  1. Clear Garden Beds of Debris

Remove leaves and other matter that piled up in your garden during the cooler months. Gently turn the soil and work in fresh fertilizer.
 

  1. Start Planting

Early spring is the time to divide perennials and plant hardier vegetables, such as onions and potatoes. You can also start indoor seeds, if necessary, and move plants outdoors when the weather permits.

Getting some of your lawn and garden care underway now can make those warmer, sunny days feel closer in no time. Find more seasonal tips for prepping your yard at eLivingtoday.com.


SOURCE:
eLivingToday

Continue Reading

Live Better

A how-to guide for deep cleaning your grill

Published

on

(Family Features) A clean grill can enhance the flavor of your food, making regular grill maintenance an essential part of your outdoor cooking routine.

Grills, especially those exposed to the elements, can accumulate dirt, rust and food residue that can affect performance and safety. Plus, residual char and grease can impart unwanted flavors and even lead to flare-ups.

Once you’ve gathered the right tools – a sturdy grill brush with stainless steel bristles, a scraper, a bucket of soapy water, microfiber cloths and grill cleaner or degreaser – consult this step-by-step guide to keep your grill in pristine condition, ensuring delicious meals every time.

  1. Preheat the grill for 15 minutes to loosen any stuck-on residue then turn it off and let it cool slightly.
  2. Ensure the gas supply is turned off before cleaning.
  3. Remove the grates and scrub them thoroughly with a grill brush and warm, soapy water. Rinse and let dry.
  4. Clean burners by wiping them with a damp cloth.
  5. Scrape the inside of the grill to remove any debris and use a vacuum to collect loose dirt and ash.
  6. Wipe down the exterior of the grill with a microfiber cloth and grill cleaner.
  7. Reassemble the grill once all parts are dry and give it a final wipe down.

In between deep cleanings, remember to clean your grill grates immediately after cooking while they are still warm to remove food particles and grease. Find more tips for the grill and beyond at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock


SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

Continue Reading
Ad
Ad
Ad
Ad
Ad
Ad
Ad

Trending