Local food just tastes better, which can mean less preparation time to wow your holiday guests. If you’re looking to save time and energy, try these ideas for a deliciously local, low stress holiday gathering:
1) Hassle Free Homemade Baked Goods
Sweets are a holiday staple, but baking isn’t everyone’s forte. Let Peach and Honey help with their delicious, scratch made bakes filled with love and clean ingredients. Their new Hazelnut Toffee Crunch is sure to be a seasonal favorite, but they have a variety of flavors for almost everyone’s palate. Buy a package of all seven of their flavors, arrange them on a decorative platter, and viola!, you have a delicious and beautiful display that is sure to please everyone’s sweet tooth.
2) Quick, Crowd Pleasing Appetizer
True Michiganders know there is nothing better than warm smoked whitefish, especially in dip form. Pick up some of the best around at The Fish Monger’s Wife – a 4th generation family fishing business in Muskegon. They carefully brine their smoked fish in salt water and smoke it in a 100% wood fired smokehouse – the most natural way to smoke fish. Create a simple, delicious appetizer by gently warming the whitefish dip in the oven and serving it with your favorite crackers or a baguette.
3) A Fresh, Fast Holiday Main
Try West MI Pasta and Provisions’ high quality pastas, made from organic durum semolina flour, as an easy main dish. Looking for an easy way to incorporate seasonal flavors into your celebrations? Try this recipe combining their Pumpkin Casarecce pasta and fresh, roasted pumpkin. It’s simple, warm and full of exceptional flavor. Finish with some Fustini’s Olive Oil for added elegance.
4) Leave it to the Professionals
Take (almost) all the stress out of holiday entertaining by turning over the food preparation to the trusted hands of a locally minded chef or caterer. Have particular dishes your guests want or dietary restrictions to accommodate? Share your specific vision and they will do their best to create what you need. No restrictions? Give the chef your budget and let them work their magic!
5) Sip Local
Whatever your holiday entertaining plans, local beverages are a must! Mawby sparkling wines are perfect for celebrating reconnecting with loved ones. Blom Meadwork’s crisp, refreshing Christmas Mead – filled with Michigan cranberries and ginger- is a perfect pairing for your turkey (hint, hint). And Arbor Tea’s Holiday Spice Blend pairs well with holiday brunches or post-meal nap time.
Find more delicious Michigan businesses at localdifference.org. Searching for more Michigan holiday ideas? Check out our michiganlocalgiftguide.com
How do you incorporate local food into your holiday celebrations? Do you have tips for stress free holidays? Share your thoughts with us at [email protected].