Planning Your Christmas Menu

As you prepare for Christmas dinner with your family, you may be wondering how to set your dinner table. Here are some ideas to get your creativity started:

Plan Your Menu  The first and most important step is to plan your menu. Does your family usually serve a traditional Christmas dinner? Do they like tradition, or would they mind something new? What types of meat does your family eat?
Once you have decided on the main meat (turkey, chicken, duck, pork, etc.), now you should decide what vegetables to serve. Is anyone allergic to any particular foods? Do sure members have certain vegetables they select to eat with their meat? Plan a friendly variety to ensure that everyone will locate something they like.
Next, plan your sides and desserts. Will you serve dinner rolls? What types of drinks will you offer? What desserts does everyone like?
When you plan your Christmas menu, remember that it is okay to ask for help. Perhaps it will be easier on you to call your guests and ask that everyone bring their favorite plate or dessert. This will take a lot of stress off you and ensures that there is a kind variety of food to eat.
Set the Table  Now that your dinner is planned, youre ready to set the table. Try going for a theme that will encompass your dinner. Are you serving lots of casseroles? Go for a country-themed setting. Are you planning a four-course meal? Create a more elegant setting, with china and stemware.
Many family Christmas dinners are relaxed. This may be a good option, especially if you have young children. Create a easy, yet graceful centerpiece with candles and an eatable fruit tree. Sometimes easy is best, offset the simple setting with some delectable food and great company for a memorable family Christmas.