Be the Best Holiday Host.

There’s nothing like a scattered host to spoil the festivities. Ideally, when you have a houseful of guests (even though it may be a lot of work), it’s your job to cover the details and make it look easy. Here are some pointers that will help you shine.

• Be warm upon arrival. Have at least one warm appetizer to serve your guests as they settle into your home. Ladle miniature portions of Carrot Olive Soup into espresso cups or shot glasses for an instant soother.
• Make sure to veg. The holidays are abundant with turkey, roasts and spiral hams. Give thought to your vegetarian guests by preparing at least one hearty vegetable side dish that can serve as a substantial, celebratory entree like Butternut Squash and Olive Risotto for those going meatless.
• Don’t let them see you sweat. Get your cooking done in advance so that you can enjoy socializing with your guests. Prepare foods that require little last minute details. Better yet, choose menu items like Overnight Vegetables that are enhanced over time without any extra work.
• Say thanks on the way out. Children aren’t the only ones who love goody bags. Prepare a special jam, tapenade, salsa or spice mix to send home with your guests and they’ll enjoy your hospitality for days after the festivities.
• Help guests help themselves. Consider the ease of eating when preparing appetizers and cocktail nibbles. Make sure bite sized items are really only one bite to avoid embarrassing revelers with crumbling crostini and other munching mishaps.