Recipes for casual, carefree holidays

The holiday season is upon us. But before you start preparing that one anticipated holiday feast, remember not to lose sight of those other important meal occasions, like a family brunch, appetizers for the big game, post-shopping lunch or a dessert and coffee duo for those unexpected drop-in guests.

Be prepared using these simple yet special meal solutions that will have you spending less time in the kitchen and more time with your friends and family throughout the entire holiday season.

Holiday Entertaining, Made Easy

These tips for carefree holiday entertaining are offered by Sara Lee Executive Chef, Cat DeOrio:

“1. One pot meals are easy: Take advantage of your slow cooker as much as possible during the holiday season. Just add your ingredients to the pot and enjoy the holidays while your meal cooks without you!

“2. Take a dip: Cheese or chocolate fondue is a quick, impromptu appetizer or dessert option that is perfect for entertaining. Smoked sausage, salami, cheesecake, brownie bites or pound cake — the options are endless!

“3. Host a dessert party: Your guests will be thankful for a change of pace from the many dinner parties they’ve already attended.

Visit totalmealsonline.com for more tips and recipes.

Customizable Southwest Breakfast Soft Tacos

Start the day off right with hearty breakfast soft tacos. This delicious dish is perfect when you have relatives staying overnight. Simply heat a package of sausage, add eggs and top with your favorite condiments and you have a brunch for a bunch in no time at all!

Makes 4 tacos

1 package skillet sausage

6 eggs

Tortillas

Cheese

Salsa

Sour cream

1.Cook sausage according to package instructions. Combine eggs and stir into skillet mixture.

2.Spoon mixture into warm tortilla and top with favorite Southwest style condiments: shredded cheese, salsa and sour cream.

Fancy Pigs in a Blanket

Guests getting hungry, but the main course isn’t ready yet? Satisfy and entertain with Fancy Pigs in a Blanket. These bite-size crowd pleasers are packed with mouthwatering smoky flavor. Prepared with Dijon mustard and your favorite leftover holiday cranberry sauce, this simple appetizer adds a touch of class to any holiday gathering.

Serves 8 (3 wrapped links per person)

1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent dinner rolls

3 tablespoons cranberry sauce

3 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1/2 package cocktail links

1. Preheat oven to 375ºF.

2. Separate crescent rolls and spread lightly with Dijon mustard and cranberry sauce.

3. Cut each crescent roll into thirds, lengthwise.

4. Place links on short side of each triangle. Roll up each starting at short side of triangle. Place on ungreased cooking sheet.

5. Bake 12 to15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Elegant Strawberry and Chocolate Cheesecake Delight With Eggnog Coffee

There is no better way to end a wonderful evening than with elegant strawberry and chocolate cheesecake delight. This divine dessert is ready in less than 5 minutes and is best paired with eggnog coffee, a seasonal favorite.

Serves 8 (1 cheesecake)

1 frozen Strawberry Cheesecake

1 package bittersweet or semi sweet chocolate chips

1. Remove cheesecake from pan and set on a serving plate.

2. Pour 2/3 chocolate chips into microwave safe bowl. Warm over medium heat 2 to 3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. After chocolate is melted, stir in remaining chocolate chips.

3. Drizzle chocolate over cheesecake and let stand 45 to 60 seconds.

4. Serve with Eggnog Coffee.

Eggnog Coffee

Serves 1

1 package single serve coffee pods

Eggnog

Whipped Cream

Holiday sprinkles or favorite candy (crushed)

1. Brew single cup of coffee according to directions.

2. Add eggnog to coffee and top with dollop of whipped cream.

3. Sprinkle with candy pieces.