Christmas in July - Plan the Menu

Be ahead of the game this year. Start with the menu and get it out of the way. It is the easiest part of Christmas. If your family is like most American families, you tend to the same meals each year anyway, so it should not take more than a few minutes to plan it out properly.

Start with Appetizers

Do you prepare quick snacks for your guests to munch or fancier appetizers instead of snacks? Make a menu list of these items along with a list of the ingredients you will need to purchase in order to make each food.

* Appetizer Ideas *

- Sliced vegetables with festive Red and Green Pepper Dip
- Cream Cheese Penguins

Move on to the Main Course

What is the main dish on the table? Turkey, Ham...a Christmas Goose. Add your favorite to the menu list. Include any spices, herbs or sauces that you need to prepare the main dish.

* Main Course Ideas *

- Deep Fried Turkey
- Turducken

Slide in the Side Dishes

How many different side dishes do you like to offer? Of course, there must be stuffing, mashed potatoes and yams, but what else? Try a few new recipes. Write the recipe name and the ingredients on your menu list.

* Side Dish Ideas *

- Candied Brussels Sprouts
- Garlicky Broccoli Slaw

Relax with Dessert

Here comes the best part....dessert! What are your favorites? Apple pie...pumpkin pie...maybe, lemon meringue. Instead of sticking with the pie, try new desserts with the same flavors.

* Dessert Ideas *

- Graham Crackers and Pumpkin Fluff Dip
- Glazed Apple Turnovers

Now, what are you waiting for? Go get started! Make the menu and save it in a safe place (that you will remember) until you need it in the fall.

Resources:
Red and Green Pepper Dip
http://www.momsmenuplanning.com/2010/07/christmas-in-july-red-and-green-pepper.html

Cream Cheese Penguins
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Cream-Cheese-Penguins/Detail.aspx

Deep Fried Turkey
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Deep-Fried-Turkey/Detail.aspx

Turducken Recipe
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Turducken/Detail.aspx

Garlicky Broccoli Slaw
http://momsmenuplanner.blogspot.com/2010/05/side-dish-ideas-garlicky-broccoli-slaw.html

Pumpkin Fluff Dip
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Pumpkin-Fluff-Dip/Detail.aspx