Creative Holiday-Themed Recipes and Drinks
The end of the calendar year is ripe with opportunities to come together with your loved ones and celebrate the holidays. From Thanksgiving to Christmas and through the New Year, our lives are filled with cheer and new memories during this time. However, there can also be a lot of pressure. Between getting your house decorated, holiday shopping, and cooking a great meal, a lot of work goes into the holidays.
This guide from KO Storage will provide some fun holiday recipe ideas for everything from delectable Thanksgiving side dishes to tasty Christmas cocktails and drinks, all of which are sure to make for an unforgettable time.
Thanksgiving Recipe Ideas
Thanksgiving is all about sharing comforting, warm dishes that highlight the flavors of fall. From savory sides like stuffing to classic desserts and warm beverages, these festive food ideas are the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast.
Cornbread Stuffing
Utilize the subtle sweetness of cornbread when making your traditional Thanksgiving stuffing (or dressing) this year! Combine cubed cornbread with sautéed onions, celery, and herbs like sage and thyme for a perfectly savory stuffing that balances sweet and earthy flavors.
Simple Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is a Thanksgiving classic that’s surprisingly easy to make. Start with a store-bought crust for convenience, and fill it with a mix of pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Spiced Rum Cider
Warm up your of-age guests and fill your home with inviting aromas by making some spiced rum cider. Simmer your favorite apple cider with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a splash of spiced rum for a comforting holiday drink that captures the essence of fall.
Best Christmas Recipes
Christmas feasts are grand experiences filled with creative holiday recipes that feel cozy, cheerful, and celebratory. These holiday appetizers and desserts will be sure to add a magical touch to your Christmas experience this year, especially when accompanied by festive decorations.
Perfect Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables make an ideal side dish, bringing color and flavor to the table that anyone can enjoy. Try roasting Brussels sprouts, carrots, and parsnips with olive oil and rosemary, and consider adding a drizzle of honey for a slightly sweet finish.
Festive Christmas Cookies
Christmas cookies are a must-have for any holiday party! Decorate sugar cookies with icing in festive colors, or add a twist by building gingerbread men. Make these cookies even more fun by letting guests decorate their own creations at the table with sprinkles and candies.
Eggnog and Other Christmas Cocktails and Drinks
A favorite of many, eggnog is a rich and creamy treat with hints of nutmeg and vanilla. To add a little holiday magic to your eggnog ( as long as you’re 21+), mix in a splash of bourbon or rum. If eggnog isn’t your style, try a cranberry margarita or hot chocolate spiked with peppermint schnapps for a seasonal taste.
Recipes for New Year’s Celebrations
New Year’s is a time for fun, flavorful bites and celebratory drinks. Welcome the new year by following these creative holiday recipes to make appetizers and meals that are perfect to start the year off right.
New Year’s Eve Party Appetizers
Start the countdown to midnight with easy festive food ideas like stuffed mushrooms, mini meatballs, and cheese platters. Serve items that guests can nibble on while socializing, and make sure to offer a mix of savory and light options to keep everyone satisfied.
Foods to Eat on New Year’s Day for Good Luck
Bring good luck to your new year with traditional holiday recipe ideas that incorporate foods like black-eyed peas, collard greens, and pomegranate. These foods all are believed to bring about good luck, so try making a black-eyed pea salad, collard greens with bacon, or fruit salad to manifest prosperity and happiness for the year ahead.
Sparkling Champagne Cocktails
New Year’s Eve calls for a bit of bubbly! Elevate your champagne with a twist of orange liqueur and a splash of cranberry juice for a festive, colorful drink. You can also make a bowl of punch or sangria so your of-age guests don’t have to worry about bringing drinks.
Create Space for the Holidays at Home by Renting Seasonal Storage
Hosting holiday gatherings can take up a lot of space, especially if anyone is planning to stay with you. To open up space and create a clutter-free environment, rent a seasonal storage unit from KO Storage! When you store unused items like extra furniture and summer gear, you can create a more open and organized environment for everyone to enjoy the holidays.
Ready to get the festivities started? Use our unit size guide tool to figure out what you need to rent, and explore our blog and FAQ page for additional information. Once you’ve found the perfect space, find a KO Storage facility near you today!