60 genius tips that will make your holiday cooking so much better

You don’t have to turn to sugar to sweeten up homemade cranberry sauce. Alternately, stir in some maple syrup, sweet wine or sweetened fruit juice (like apple or orange) and a pinch of salt. The salt will intensify the flavour so you don’t have to add too much sweetener.

Stock up on special (yet disposable) to-go containers so guests can take leftovers home so you’re not stuck eating the same thing weeks after the big day.

Here are more great tips on how to cut down on food waste. 

Don’t lose a single sprinkle of seasonings by adding your seasoning under the turkey skin. Gently lift the skin and rub the butter or oil, spices and herbs all over the bird. That way, the flavours can get even deeper into the meat and those who don’t like skin can simply peel it off.

Every 1.8kg of turkey needs 24 hours to thaw, so make sure you’re planning ahead of time. For example, a 6 kilogram turkey should be transferred to your fridge 5 days before you want to cook it.

Remember that bag of frozen peas that’s been sitting in the back of the freezer since who knows when? Turn that bad boy into a stunning last-minute party appetiser. Thaw the peas, then give them a whirl in the food processor along with garlic, olive oil, rice vinegar and Parmesan cheese. Smear the spread on toast for an easy (and healthy!) crostini dish everyone will enjoy.

A warm knife cuts through cakes, cheesecakes and bars like butter. Before serving, dip your knife into hot water and dry it. Then slice away. Repeat as needed.

This kid-friendly appetiser might just be the cutest snack of the season. All you need are crackers, cured meats, cheese and a little handiwork to make this cheery gobbler come to life.

You don’t need to break out the piping bags to create a pretty finish on cakes and brownies. With just a sheet of card stock—or even a doily—you can create an impactful visual. Simply trace and cut out the design of your choice. Press this onto the top of your bake and then dust with powdered sugar. Carefully remove your template to reveal a gorgeous finish.

You can chill a bottled beverage in a mere 20 minutes by filling a pitcher with ice water and a handful of salt. Fully immerse the bottle, turning it two to three times. This tip works well with wine or soda.

Sometimes, gravy turns out a bit too soupy. Thicken it by mixing some cornstarch with cold turkey or chicken broth. Stir the slurry into your simmering gravy, whisking until it reaches your desired consistency.