Last-Second Holiday Solutions To The Rescue

December 23, 2016

OK, you’ve got half an hour to find a last-second gift for your picky Aunt Frieda, weird cousin Pete or annoying boss, Rufus. Don’t freak out and scout what’s left at the mall or pray Amazon’s drones are hovering overhead like Santa’s sleigh. That’s crazy talk. The only sensible thing to do is to grab your spatula and make something delicious, healthy and fast (the videos will walk you through each simple step). Can’t handle more cooking? Head to your local bookstore and pick something inspiring to get Aunt Frieda’s 2017 started right. She’ll thank you for it—and you’ll be a holiday superhero.

Holiday Treats to Serve Up

Chocolate, Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Energy Balls

Mix up some chocolate-pumpkin energy treats, nestle them on a pretty tea towel inside an attractive gift box and secure it with a big bow.

Golden Garlic Hummus

Whip up a double batch of hummus, transfer to a Ball jar, wrap in colored cellophane and tie with raffia. Pair with olive oil, cheese, or herb-infused crackers.

Roasted Pecans with Rosemary, Olive Oil and Sea Salt

rosemary-pecan-resized Roast 3 cups of pecans for 12 minutes at 375F, sprinkle with 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary. Transfer to colorful cellophane wrappers, securing with a festive red ribbon.

Maple Walnut Butter

In a 350F oven roast 2 cups of raw walnut halves sprinkled with sea salt for 10 minutes. Let cool, then transfer to a food processor and pulse until it thickens. Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and process again for 30 seconds. Place in a large jar, add a wooden or silver spoon and wrap in pretty fabric with a bow.