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The count down is well underway in our house as my daughter pulls out tiny ornaments from our beautiful advent calendar to hang on a small tree everyday. This is her first advent calendar and she is struggling to understand why she cannot just pull it out all at once and decorate the tree in one joyful session. At this mid-month point, she seems to be tiring of my daily explanation for patience and is starting to get into the swing of one ornament a day.
Patience is something that brings forth the most delightful food this time of year too. Allow broth to slowly simmer until the intertwined flavors are ready for the Bouillabaisse Seafood Stew dolloped with a simple Saffron Rouille. Roasts such as this Duck with Smoky Orange Sauce will take its time in the oven absorbing the flavors from its decadent layer of skin. Winter Squash Lasagna is a process to put together, but can be made ahead and baked an hour before any elaborate or simple dinner with family.
The Hazelnut Squash Dip and Spicy Squash Bisque each do well with extra time under the fire, but can also be sped along if needed. Save a bit of time in advance. Roast a bunch of squash for the soup
& lasagna and sweet potatoes for the Triple Ginger Sweet Potatoes or Coconut Creamed Sweet Potatoes, too.
Coconut Granola is tossed together quickly but requires a bit of baby-sitting as it takes a long cozy nap in the oven. Fennel Crackers are most fun to make with a buddy while sipping hot chocolate or maybe in front of a holiday movie. Both the Granola and Crackers will keep you supplied throughout the holidays or are perfect for gifting, too.
Of course, this time of year is a bit busy as well. When you are not making dishes such as the Broccoli Strata or lasagna in advance (or attending parties & other events) whip up 30-minute or less dishes such as Broccoli Ricotta Pasta or Cherry Chili Chard.
Salads are quick too and always seem essential this time of year to balance the joyful treats that abound. Try glistening options such as the Kale Pomegranate Salad, Lemon Dressed Spinach Salad, Fennel & Blood Orange Salad, Cranberry & Candied Walnut Salad and Chestnut & Clementine Salad.
As the day’s countdown are you caught up with all the gifts you want to give? Why not shower those you love with Gift Certificates to Lilly’s Table? You could even add to it a list of your favorite recipes for them to try. The best part is you will be entered into a raffle to win all of 2013 for free. The more gift certificates you buy, the more times you will be entered.
Cheers to this last joyful week of preparing and celebrating before the holiday week is upon us!
Cook seasonally. Eat consciously. Live well,
