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Let’s Cook Our Way through the Holidays

Tags:  Innovation  |  Seasonal

2020 is nearing a close, with holidays upon us and a new year in sight. We’re scurrying around our kitchens, wrapping up projects, thinking about new ideas to bring to you. The mad dash, so to speak, with a little less dashing, and a little more virtual connecting. Of course, we’re thinking about what to cook and have a round-up of ideas to inspire a celebratory feast. Something to snack on, a soup to warm everyone up, side dishes perfectly sized for a family-style meal. Lots of choices to offer and even more where we found them.
 
Maybe you start with a snack portioned into individual servings, like Calabrian Toast. A trending pepper, Calabrian chiles offer the flavors of Italy with a mild heat level, and with the addition of a soft-boiled egg, sprigs, and prosciutto, the humble piece of toast is instantly elevated. Just like this Grilled Vegetable Mezze. Colorful and popping with umami, the shareable appetizer will not disappoint when delivered as single portions. Even better, knowing there won’t be an awkward exchange over the last bite of the vegetable-forward dip. We have a soft spot for Coconut Aioli and think you might, too, especially when you combine it with Charred Chicken Wings and take your first bite. Of course, Garlic Grana Padano Chicken Wings are just as good and could round out a sampler kit quite nicely.
 
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Soup always works, delivers nicely, and cures questions of ‘what’s for lunch’ the next day. We have an option for all menu types and preferences but tend to include a chowder, legumes, and a seasonal choice in our line-up. We’re betting big on comforting classics this holiday season and have marked Bacon Potato Chowder to fill this particular need. Onions, celery, potatoes, green onion, cheddar cheese all play their role well. A base really, for creating a version of your own. This Chicken Lentil Soup offers a healthier option, as well as a solid contender for using leftover proteins. Swap the chicken with turkey or ham, vary your lentils for curious guests, and pick the herbs from what you have on hand. Roasted Butternut Squash is a perennial favorite, of course, and when combined with apples and sage, you’ll have a new classic for the season. We serve with crusty bread, a green salad, or open-faced melts.
 
We’re guessing you have the proteins under control, so instead, we’ll offer a few sides to round out the table. No passing necessary this year. Individual serving vessels will do the trick or send out the door in family-sized containers. Take Oven-Roasted Vegetables, for instance. Bursting with flavors found in our Liquid Stock Concentrate and compatible with all main courses, this platter is error-proof. Cornbread Muffins may be an unexpected side for a holiday meal, yet comforting all the same. Add your blend of corn, cheese, or chiles to make it yours, and offer in pairs, for an easy add-on to catering orders. Macaroni and Cheese is a sure thing, too. Made for all ages, young and old, and everyone in between, we’ll be serving on our family’s table this year. Will you join us? Cheddar cheese, bleu cheese, Monterey jack cheese, your pick. Swap with an interesting noodle, garnish with toasted bread crumbs, and fresh herbs, and enjoy. We know we will.
 
You can find much more—apple and fig couscous, for example—right here. Our team of chefs is busy adding more on-trend ideas to try. With a quick keyword search or a scroll within categories, you’ll have inspiration at your fingertips. While you’re at it, be sure to visit us on Instagram and Facebook for more inspiration. And when you get to cooking, post and tag us. We’d love to follow along. Lastly, we want to wish you all a happy and safe holiday from Custom Culinary.

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