15 Things Every Home Cook Should Do Before Holiday Season Begins

The holiday season is fast approaching, and as a home cook, it is important to be prepared. Taking a little time now can make your kitchen run smoothly when the festivities begin. Start by organizing your tools and ingredients. Get familiar with new recipes or even test them out ahead of time. With a few smart steps, you can ensure that your meals shine this season.

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Clean and Organize Your Kitchen

A clean and organized kitchen makes cooking less stressful once the holiday rush begins. Clear off counters and get rid of old ingredients taking up space. Check your pantry and fridge for expired items. This helps make room for new ingredients and keeps your kitchen ready for long cooking sessions.

Take time to wipe down cabinets, appliances, and drawers. Rearrange items so your most-used tools are easy to reach. Keep your baking pans, measuring cups, and mixing bowls together. A little organization now saves you from chaos later.

Check and Sharpen Your Knives

Sharp knives are essential for quick and safe cooking. Dull blades can slow you down and increase the risk of slipping while cutting. Test each knife by slicing through a tomato or onion. If it struggles, it needs sharpening.

You can use a sharpening stone or have a professional do it. Always wash and dry knives before storing to prevent rust. A sharp knife makes prep work easier and more accurate. This simple step can make holiday cooking feel smoother and safer.

Take Stock of Spices and Herbs

Check your spice rack before heavy holiday cooking begins. Spices lose flavor over time, especially if stored near heat. Smell and taste a small amount to see if they are still fresh. Replace anything that smells weak or looks clumped.

Buy the basics like cinnamon, nutmeg, and thyme ahead of time. Label new jars with purchase dates for easier tracking. Store them in a cool, dark cabinet to keep their flavor longer. Fresh seasonings make a big difference in festive recipes.

Test Your Appliances

Before the holidays, make sure your oven, mixer, and other appliances are working properly. Run your oven once to test the temperature accuracy. Check your mixer’s attachments and cords for any damage. Replace or repair anything that looks worn.

It is best to catch issues early so you have time to fix them. You do not want a broken oven the day before a big dinner. Keep small appliances like toasters and blenders clean and stored properly. Having reliable tools will make cooking more enjoyable.

Create a Holiday Menu Plan

A written menu saves time and prevents last-minute decisions. Start by listing the dishes you want to prepare. Include appetizers, main courses, and desserts. This helps you organize ingredients and estimate cooking times.

Plan dishes that balance flavors and textures. Make sure you have a mix of make-ahead and same-day recipes. Write down where each recipe comes from so you can find it quickly. A well-thought-out menu keeps your cooking schedule on track.

Stock Up on Baking Essentials

The holidays bring plenty of baking, so stock up on ingredients now. Flour, sugar, butter, and eggs often run low in stores near the holidays. Having extras on hand avoids last-minute trips. Make a checklist before shopping.

Keep everything stored properly to maintain freshness. Butter can be frozen for weeks, and sugar keeps well when sealed tightly. Pre-measure ingredients for favorite recipes to save time. Being prepared helps you enjoy baking without the rush.

Prepare Freezer Meals

Make-ahead meals are a lifesaver during busy holiday weeks. Soups, casseroles, and sauces freeze well and taste just as good reheated. Cook in large batches and label containers with names and dates. This gives you ready meals when you are short on time.

Choose recipes that hold texture after thawing. Avoid freezing dishes with dairy unless noted in the recipe. Store meals flat to save space in your freezer. Having a few ready options reduces stress when guests arrive early or plans change.

Update Cookware and Bakeware

Check your pots, pans, and baking sheets for wear. Scratched nonstick pans or warped baking trays can affect results. Replace damaged pieces before heavy holiday use. Consider investing in an extra roasting pan or casserole dish.

Test your cookware by doing a small baking run. Make sure everything heats evenly and fits in your oven. A quick check now saves you from problems later. Good bakeware makes a visible difference in your dishes.

Organize Serving Dishes and Utensils

Serving dishes often get forgotten until the last moment. Pull them out early to clean and check for chips or cracks. Match serving spoons, tongs, and ladles with each dish. It helps you visualize your table setup.

Set aside platters for appetizers, meats, and desserts. If you are short on pieces, borrow or buy what you need in advance. Label each dish with sticky notes to remember what goes where. A little planning gives your table a polished look.

Review and Test Recipes

Testing recipes ahead helps avoid surprises. Pick new dishes and try them once before the big day. This gives you a chance to adjust ingredients or timing. It also helps you learn how long prep really takes.

Take notes while testing to remember what worked best. If a recipe needs a tweak, write it directly on the page. Share taste tests with family or friends for feedback. This small effort can prevent stress when cooking for guests.

Deep Clean the Refrigerator

Before you start storing groceries and leftovers, give your fridge a good clean. Remove old containers and expired items. Wipe shelves and drawers with a mixture of vinegar and warm water. Let them dry before restocking.

Reorganize food by type to make everything easier to find. Keep condiments in the door and dairy on upper shelves. Leave room for large platters or baked goods. A clean fridge keeps food fresher and ready for the season ahead.

Plan Your Shopping List Early

Writing your shopping list in advance prevents multiple store trips. Divide the list by store sections such as produce, dairy, and pantry. This keeps your shopping efficient and avoids missing key items. Check your list twice before heading out.

Buy nonperishable items first and save fresh ingredients for later. Watch for store sales on staples like butter and sugar. Keep reusable bags ready for larger grocery runs. A planned list helps you manage both time and budget.

Prepare Table Settings and Linens

Your dining setup matters as much as the food. Wash tablecloths, napkins, and placemats early. Iron them if needed and store them neatly. Check that you have enough plates, glasses, and silverware.

Arrange everything to see how your table will look. Mix in small touches like candles or simple decor. Keep extras on hand for unexpected guests. Doing this ahead creates a warm and inviting dining space.

Restock Cleaning Supplies

Cooking large meals means more dishes and spills. Make sure you have enough dish soap, sponges, and cleaning cloths. Stock extra trash bags and paper towels. Keep a dedicated bin for recycling.

Clean as you go while cooking to stay organized. Wipe counters and wash utensils between tasks. It helps keep your workspace open and less stressful. A well-stocked cleaning station saves time once the meal is over.

Plan for Leftovers

Leftovers are part of every holiday meal, so prepare storage in advance. Gather enough containers, foil, and freezer bags. Label everything with contents and dates before refrigerating. Store food safely within two hours of serving.

Think ahead about how you will use leftovers. Many dishes can be turned into soups, sandwiches, or casseroles. Offer guests take-home containers to share the extra food. Planning ahead prevents waste and keeps meals enjoyable even after the holidays.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.