The Easiest Thanksgiving Ever

Time-Saving Tips

Serving dinner buffet style saves
on both space and cleanup time.

Prepare as much as possible in advance. For instance, premeasure seasonings and store them in labeled bags or containers; precut and store vegetables; and roast garlic a week in advance, then store the cloves in olive oil in the refrigerator.

Let your family set the table. Children will gobble up the chance to make place cards, fold napkins, and dress up your holiday table. This will also keep them out of the kitchen while you attend to the food.

Serve buffet-style. With pretty serving bowls and silver utensils, guests can help themselves to seconds whenever they want.

Let the turkey rest before slicing. To avoid a last-minute crunch and assure tender turkey, let the bird rest out of the oven, covered, for about 20 minutes before slicing.

Use your microwave oven. Take advantage of the appliance to quickly reheat food before serving when all the burners on the stove top are occupied.