Phew, ok! Eight recipes and a leeeetle bit of everything. Because this is some sort of magical year where both Christmas and New Years fall on Friday (or does that give less days off?), we are publishing two menus this week. It is a little bit of everything because holidays can be such a hodge podge of pot lucks or one person pulling off the whole thing, that we have something for everyone.

I could eat this panzanella all day long, love some good bread and lots of veggies. I think it works as part of a spread, but is also great for those of us who just need to eat lunch. The ragu is more of a holiday meal, and can be completely made in advance, so that one is there for you who are pulling off a holiday main on your own. Polenta! A crowd pleaser, even with the kids. This goes with the super simple arugula salad. Then if you are the side person, this hassleback squash looks pretty and has these dreamy crispy breadcrumbs with inspo from Samin Nosrat (any leftovers are lovely to put on pasta) and I put some notes in there for prepping ahead if you're traveling. The tamales are a project but once you get going, you mind as well make a ton of them. We're also reposting the cinnamon rolls that don't need fussing and an egg bake that can mostly be made the night before and could even be smushed in a bun or tortilla if you want to make a bigger deal out of it. Oh and peppermint cake! My most favorite ice cream flavor and a nice holiday dessert when you're feeling burnt out on pie.

I'll pop on Instagram stories tomorrow so we can talk plans. I am hosting a lot this next week, so am in planning mode, and would love to help you if you're wanting to chat holiday food as well. I hope you are enjoying some of this season - the magic and joy amidst all the hustle and excess. Thank you for being here! xo