Holiday Party Planning

What you really want for Christmas is to eat a thing and not gain an ounce, right? Well that has been my wish since the 3rd grade, and it isn’t just a wish that came and went it happens around the holiday season every year.

The first item of business is to get organized and plan a budget, you don’t want to have to worry the whole time about your finances and if people are eating you out of house and home. Be realistic with yourself and those will come to visit, if you do not have enough in your budget to feed everyone every meal then making a calendar of meals provided will put everyone at ease in the kitchen.

This year I’m getting smart and you can to, we are going to still enjoy the sweet tastes of the holidays however we are going to do so in moderation and did you know there are just as many sweet tasting treats out there with half the calories and fat- yep that right, let me share some with you: Remember how I dreamed of a white Christmas, well it can come true with my favorite sweet treat- Almond Meringues, they have the perfect crunch and if you dip them in a little chocolate and then powdered sugar walla you have a white Christmas- quite yummy too. If you remember moderation these delectable bites will only add 48 calories to your daily intake. (see recipe below)

* 2 teaspoons dried thyme * 6 garlic cloves, minced * 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, divided * 3/4 teaspoon black pepper * 1 (2 1/2 pound) center-cut beef tenderloin, trimmed * Cooking spray * 4 teaspoons butter * 12 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms * 1 cup less-sodium beef broth * 1/2 cup port or other sweet red wine * 2 teaspoons cornstarch * 2 tablespoons water

If you are a chocolate fan as I know I am you will love Chocolate Decadence- the name alone should send you running, not to exercise but for more! This scrumptious dessert believe it or not has only 310 calories which makes it perfect for that chocolate craving with out the guilt. (see recipe below)

Lobster Newburg is a classic main course dish that is sure to have your guests drawling however with all the cream, milk, and butter it’s not a great dish if you are trying to watch your figure.

Who doesn’t love a little fruit with their sweetness? I’m a big fan of strawberries but with this next dessert you can add black berries, raspberries, blueberries, just add your favorite and enjoy with only 300 calories this will be sure to delight to your taste buds and your waist line.

* 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice * 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil * 1/4 teaspoon sea salt * 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper * 2 cups cooked lobster meat, coarsely chopped (3/4 pound) * 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved * 1/4 cup chopped shallots * 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives * 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

After you determine the meat or fish you have chosen for the main course, keep it simple; Do not drizzle extra gravy’, creams’, or butters over the protein, instead garnish with fresh vegetables such as broccoli with chest nuts, or cherry tomatoes. The key to serving a great meal is to have your food entertain the eyes and have flavor pop in their mouth, not on their hips.

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