Friday, 19 December 2008

A Control Freak's Guide to Christmas

I almost broke out in a rash when I heard that a friend of mine had done no Christmas shopping, no food plans, nothing, and today is the 19th December! Do you know I ordered my Christmas turkey in October. I booked my grocery delivery in November. I finished my Christmas shopping by 11th November. I am almost finished wrapping my gifts. My tree went up on the 4th.

The thing about Christmas is it's terribly busy, and my approach is the sooner you can get things done, the easier these stressful times can be.

It is a personality thing though, I appreciate that. I am my mother's daughter (almost, as she used to Christmas shop in July).

I don't want to scare you with my Christmas lunch cooking plan - 2 pages of what to do in 5 minute increments. My solution to the Christmas question: "How can I drink lots all day and not burn the turkey?"

Good luck, and Merry Christmas!

As this blog is sadly lacking in good starters, I will share with you my best and favourite starter recipe. It's the best because it's easy, and my favourite because it's quite tasty and quick.

Italian Antipasto Salad

This is not really a recipe - it's more of a combining guide. Per person, put half a buffalo mozzarella cheese on a plate. Tear it in half, don't cut it! Finely slice a red chilli and sprinkle a few on top of each cheese. Now drape 2 slices of prosciutto across the top. Drizzle them with some olive oil - use the good stuff. In a bowl, dress some rocket leaves and torn fresh basil leaves with olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper and mix well. Scatter that on top of the cheese and prosciutto mounds. You can sprinkle with toasted pinenuts if you like, for another texture. I find this salad will happily sit waiting for you and your guests, so it's great for entertaining.

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