Home By Geneva Fall 2022: Holiday Kickoff

Holiday Sides & Desserts

Need ideas of what to bring to your holiday gathering?

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Why you should consider condos as part of your home search.

Holiday Season is Upon Us

Edith Sitwell once said, “Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home.”

I can’t think of another time in recent history more in need of this sentiment than right now. The magic of the holidays looked a bit different the past two years and the exhaustion of world events, disagreement and uncertainty have worn on us all.

I encourage every human to make magic again this holiday season – whatever that looks like for you.

For me, the product of an Italian heritage, I create and find the magic of the season in the kitchen. Feeding those I love is the most authentic way I know to spread warmth and cheer – and serves as a genuine expression of what they mean to me. Magic.

I hope you enjoy the Holiday Kickoff Issue we’ve curated for you. My wish is that each of you find a little piece of magic in these pages that you can spread to your loved ones.

Cheers to a magical holiday season

James Polinori Geneva Financial CMO Editor

Home By Geneva

The holidays are a busy time, so we’ve got a perfect way to keep the little one’s busy while you prep for guests! Print out this coloring page (located next to this page) for your little ones. While you and your family are busy setting the table, keep them entertained and having fun! Use crayons, markers, pens, whatever medium works best.

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on all that we are thankful for. Ask your kiddos to write down five things that they are thankful for this holiday season, and what being thankful means to them on the back of their coloring sheet.

PS. This doesn’t have to be limited to just the kids! Print out these for you and your whole family and have some fun with it. We hope you enjoy your holidays!

4 Mini Renovation Ideas

Not everyone has the budget to make big changes to their homes, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make a big difference! We created this guide to give you some simple mini renovation ideas to add a fresh twist to your space!

ENTRYWAY LANDING

The entryway is the first impression your guests will see of your home. For many, it is also where you have some of the heaviest ‘traffic’. From school supplies jackets and coats to that junk mail that you just haven’t gotten around to throwing away, your entryway is easy to overlook.

Whether yours says “Welcome to the mess!” or looks neat, organized, and stylish, you don’t need a professional decorator to create the perfect entryway landing area that is both beautiful and functional!

What you will need:

• Statement piece like a cabinet or bench

• Place to hang bags, jackets, etc.

• Opaque drawers

• Rug or mat

Let’s be honest. The entryway is sure to get dirty. Rolling out a functional rug or mat to contain any dirt or mud carried into the home can minimize the mess. Opaque drawers can help you organize the miscellaneous stuff that always accumulates at the door, and heavy-duty hooks keep scarves, jackets, and bags off the floor. Some people might like adding a bench or a mirror to make heading out the door a little easier.

Dedicating a space for your daily refuels can make your mornings just a little brighter. A space on the counter or a cart, a coffee station doesn’t have to take up too much space.

What you will need:

• Coffee/Espresso machine

• Your favorite coffee grounds or beans and mix-ins

• Mugs that fit your style

• A spot for breakfast pastries or fun décor

A simple coffee station may be one of the most underrated additions for coffee lovers in their morning routine. Having a prepped, organized, and stylish area can make waking up in the morning that much easier. And what better way to wake up than the smell of freshly brewed coffee?

COFFEE STATION

That Make a Big Impact!

READING NOOK

MINI BAR

Mental health is so important, and for many reading is a go-to activity for relaxation and entertainment. Organizing a dedicated space like a reading nook can help separate work from relaxation, especially for people still working from home.

What you will need:

• Quiet space

• Comfortable seat

• Warm light lamp

• Good book

If reading isn’t your thing, this kind of setup can still be a great multipurpose space, for everything from crafting to napping or doing crosswords. Having a quiet place to yourself has nearly limitless potential, so don’t be afraid to personalize it to your needs.

Whether you’re a party person or you just enjoy a quiet drink at home, a chic mini bar can add a certain level of class and style to your space. It is also perfect for hosts looking to add interest to their entertaining area after some time of not having people over.

What you will need:

• Re-purposed cabinet or counter space

• Glasses

• Favorite mix-ins

• A little something for ambiance

You don’t need to completely overhaul your kitchen to create a spot for a mini bar. With these basics, you can style it to your tastes and adjust as you go.

These mini renovation ideas may not make a huge difference in terms of home value, but they are a great way to improve your quality of life and add that little extra personal touch that makes it feel like home.

IS FALL THE BEST TIME

FOR YOUR BIGGEST PROJECTS?

A time for cozy sweaters, bright colors, and pumpkin everything, fall is known for many things. One that you may not know though, is that fall is actually the most productive season of the year. Studies are showing that people get more done during the fall season than any other time of year.

And it’s no mystery why. Summer is over, people are getting back from vacation, students are going back to school – it’s time to grind. People are also looking to finish those projects that they started over the Summer before the new year.

So, if you have ideas that you want to realize before family visits for the holidays, now is the time to start.

Winterize Your Home

If you’re looking for something a little more practical, winterizing your home and your car in the fall can give you a head start, especially when you live in colder climates. If you’re ready to take on other pre-winter projects, check out our Fall Maintenance Checklist with everything you need to do to prepare your home for winter weather.

Redecorate

Protecting your home is great but we all know the thing to look forward to in the fall is redecorating. Read about THE EASIEST Fall Décor Swaps that make all the difference.

Declutter

Another great way to usher in the colder months is by decluttering. Clear out trash, donate unused items, and prepare a space for holiday festivities. Spring cleaning is iconic but fall cleaning can be just as important. Be sure to check out all our favorite organization tips and products that you can try this season.

Buy a Home

If you have been looking at buying a home, but the markets have been a little too competitive, fall may be the perfect time to jump start your homebuying journey. It’s generally accepted that Spring is a great time to buy a home, the idea being that you buy in the Spring and get settled just in time for your kids to start school in the fall.

The problem is if you decide to do this you’re going to face more competition from people with the same strategy. Read these Top Tips for Buying a Home Today to see why now may be the right time for your situation. Not to mention you can put any new-home needs on your wish list!

Conclusion

Fall is a great time to be productive, but don’t forget to take advantage of special time with friends and family. Apple picking, hiking through the leaves, and enjoying the beautiful fall weather, there are so many fun fall activities to do with those you care about.

PET SAFETY CHECKLIST

Whether they are furry, feathery, scaly, or slithery, our pets all play an important part in our lives, and it is our responsibility to keep them safe. For National Animal Safety and Protection Month, we wanted to share these steps to promote a safe and enjoyable lifestyle for us and our pets!

PRIORITIZE WELLNESS

The first step to safety is prevention. Booking regular wellness checkups with your vet and keeping your pet up to date on their vaccines can give you a head start on any preventable diseases.

SPAY OR NEUTER

Any pets not intended for breeding by responsible and knowledgeable breeders should be spayed or neutered by a veterinarian at the appropriate age as determined by the vet. Doing so can regulate hormones in the pet and prevent accidents to keep pets happy, healthy, and off the streets.

MONITOR HUMAN FOOD

Most human food is actually quite bad for your pet and can make them sick. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian about what you can do to supplement your pet’s diet and be sure not to feed table scraps!

ENSURE PET-SAFE ENVIRONMENT

Animals can be prone to ingesting, chewing, or clawing at unsafe items in your home. Be sure to pet-proof any space that they may be able to reach, removing toxic chemicals, plants, electronics, and anything else that might pose a danger.

DISCUSS ANIMAL CARE AND SAFETY

Be sure everyone in the home knows your pet’s schedule, off-limits items, and safety precautions, including children. Educating your children on the importance of pet safety can protect both your pet and your little ones from mishaps and accidents. You should also keep an eye on your children anytime they are around a pet, even if it’s one you are familiar and comfortable with.

HAVE AN EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

Have a plan in place for pet health emergencies. Have a list of what you would need to take (things like vaccination and health records, collar with tags, etc.) and which vet you would go to. If your vet isn’t open 24/7, know of the nearest emergency veterinarian as well. Another good addition is creating a care chart that is easily accessible if anyone ever needs to care for your pet while you’re away or in case of an emergency.

MAKE YOUR PET IDENTIFIABLE

1 in 3 pets becomes lost in its lifetime. A crucial safeguard is identification. Chipping your pet can make it identifiable by veterinarians or shelters if your pet gets lost. Be sure to register the chip with a national pet recovery database! Putting something like a Tile Tracker on your pet’s collar can also make it easier to locate them at close distances (up to 250ft).

KNOW YOUR ANIMAL

At the end of the day, you know your animal best. If you notice your pet acting abnormally, consult with your vet to make sure you are taking the steps necessary to keep your pet pal happy, healthy, and safe.

Each Fall it’s a good idea to do some housekeeping on the interior and exterior of your home to prepare for winter. Taking a few days to prepare now, can prevent expensive repairs or home emergencies later on in the season.

FALL MAINTENANCE

Checklist

1. CHECK FOR DRAFTS

Drafts or leaks can lead to higher electric bills and let in moisture which is not good for your home. Be sure to add weather stripping or caulk wherever needed.

2. DETACH HOSES

Make sure to drain outdoor spouts, and detach your hoses to store them away for the winter. Keeping your hose connected can lead to clogged pipes and further issues as the weather gets colder.

3. CLEAN OUT YOUR GUTTERS

Letting leaves and other debris build up in your gutters could lead to serious ramifications. be sure to perform regular cleaning and maintenance.

4. CHECK YOUR FURNACE

It’s a good idea to call in a professional to take a look at your heating system before the cold weather sets in.

5.

CHECK YOUR SMOKE DETECTORS

It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to fire safety, and Fall is the perfect time to check in on your smoke detectors to ensure they are working properly.

6.

PRUNE YOUR PLANTS

Removes dead and dying branches and stubs, allowing room for new growth and protecting your property and passerby from damage.

7.

INSPECT YOUR ROOF

It’s recommended to have a professional come out to inspect your roof. Have them check for major problems such as missing, broken, or damaged shingles.

8.

BRING OUTDOOR FURNITURE INDOORS

If you live in a climate with harsh winters, it may be best to store patio furniture inside your garage or storage shed to prevent damage.

9.

CHECK YOUR RADIATORS

Regular maintenance on radiators can ensure that your home is ready to heat come wintertime.

10.

CLEAN YOUR CHIMNEY

If you have a chimney its a good idea to do a routine cleaning in the Fall, and ensure you are prepared for the cool weather ahead.

11.

CHANGE A/C FILTERS

This should be done on a regular basis anyhow, but for those of us who forget here is a friendly reminder!

12. PREPARE A WINTER CAR SAFETY KIT

If you live in very cold climates as we prepare for Fall, think about getting prepared for the winter months as well.

Herb Roasted Potatoes

INGREDIENTS:

2 lb. baby potatoes, quartered

1/4 c. extra-virgin olive oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tbsp. freshly chopped rosemary

1 tbsp. freshly chopped parsley

1 tbsp. fresh thyme leaves

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Pinch crushed red pepper flakes

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 425°.

In a large bowl, toss potatoes, oil, garlic, and herbs. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes

Pour into a 9”-x-13” baking dish.

Bake until potatoes are golden and fork tender, 35 to 40 minutes.

Sweet Potato Mash with Maple, Pecan and Rosemary

INGREDIENTS:

5 small sweet potatoes

1 1/2 c. chopped pecans

2 tbsp. olive oil

1/4 c. grated Parmesan tsp. cayenne

3 tbsp. roughly chopped fresh rosemary kosher salt

3 tbsp. pure maple syrup

DIRECTIONS:

Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Prick the potatoes with a fork and place on a microwave-safe plate. Cook on high for 6 minutes; turn each potato and cook until soft, 6 minutes more.

Let stand until cool enough to handle. Meanwhile, on a rimmed baking sheet, toss the pecans with the oil, then the Parmesan, cayenne, 2 teaspoons rosemary, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Roast for 8 minutes.

Toss with the remaining teaspoon rosemary.

Peel the potatoes and mash in a bowl with the maple syrup and 1/2 teaspoon salt until smooth.

Spoon into a shallow 2-quart baking dish and top with the pecan mixture.

Bake until heated through, 6 to 8 minutes.

Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS:

1 head (large) broccoli

1 head cauliflower

6 tbsp. butter

1/2 whole medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 c. flour

2 1/2 c. low sodium chicken broth

4 oz. weight cream cheese, room temperature

1/4 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. black pepper

1/4 tsp. seasoned salt, more to taste

1/4 tsp. paprika

1 1/2 c. grated Monterey Jack cheese, more to taste

1 tbsp. butter

1/3 c. seasoned breadcrumbs

DIRECTIONS:

Break the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets, cutting off the thick stalks as you go. Steam them for 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green, then remove them from the heat. Set aside.

In a large skillet, melt the 6 tablespoons of butter and saute the onion and garlic until the onion starts to turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Sprinkle the flour over the top, whisk to combine, and cook for another 45 seconds. Pour in broth, whisking constantly, then cook until the sauce thickens.

Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese, salt, pepper, seasoned salt, and paprika. Stir to combine until the sauce is nice and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings, making sure it's nice and flavorful! Keep warm.

In a small bowl, stir together the bread crumbs and melted butter. Set aside.

www.thepioneerwoman.com

Layer half the broccoli and cauliflower in a small casserole dish. Pour on half the cream sauce, then sprinkle on half the cheese. Sprinkle a little paprika on the cheese, then repeat with another layer of broccoli, sauce, and cheese.

End with a sprinkling of bread crumbs. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread crumbs are golden brown. Serve warm.

RALPH SMITH

Cheesy Bacon-Asparagus Casserole

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

15 MIN 1 HOUR 10 MIN 6

INGREDIENTS:

6 strips bacon, cut into 1" pieces

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 c. all-purpose flour

1 1/2 c. milk

1/2 c. heavy cream

1 c. shredded white cheddar, divided

1 c. shredded Gruyère, divided

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Crushed red pepper flakes

1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed

1 c. crushed Ritz Crackers

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375°.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, 10 minutes. Remove from pan with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel–lined plate. Drain all but a 1/4 cup of grease from pan.

To same skillet, add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute. Add flour and stir until golden, 2 minutes. Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking until smooth.

Let simmer until thickened, 5 minutes. Add ½ cup each of cheddar and Gruyère and stir until melted.

Add bacon back to sauce and season with salt and pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Place asparagus in a 9"-x-13" baking pan and pour sauce over, then top with remaining ½ cup of each cheese and crushed Ritz Crackers.

Cover with foil and bake until asparagus is tender, 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake until cheese is melty, 10 minutes more.

PARKER FEIERBACH www.delish.com

Baked Corn Casserole

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 c. finely ground cornmeal

1/2 c. butter, melted and cooled, plus more for pan

1/4 c. granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2/3 c. whole milk

1/4 c. heavy cream

2 c. frozen corn, defrosted and drained

2 (8oz.) cans creamed corn

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. smoked or spanish paprika

2 tbsp. chives, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375° and butter the inside of a medium baking dish.

In a large bowl, mix cornmeal and butter until smooth. Whisk in sugar, eggs, milk and heavy cream until incorporated.

Fold in corn and creamed corn and season with salt, pepper and paprika.

Pour into prepared baking dish and bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until center is set and top is golden.

Garnish with chives and let cool 10 minutes before serving.

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

1 MIN 25 MIN 8

INGREDIENTS:

4 tbsp. butter

3 medium carrots, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)

3 stalks celery, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)

1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)

1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme

1 tsp. kosher salt, divided

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

4 tbsp. all-purpose flour

2 c. whole milk

1 c. low-sodium chicken broth

1 tbsp. Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

4 c. cooked shredded chicken

1 c. frozen peas

1 (16.3 oz tube) biscuit dough

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375º with rack in the center.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add carrots, celery, onion, thyme, and ½ teaspoon salt, and cook, stirring often, until softened, 5 to 7 minutes.

Add flour, and stir to coat vegetables. Cook for 2 minutes more, then add milk, broth, mustard, garlic powder, and remaining ½ tsp salt, whisking to combine. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil.

Immediately reduce heat to medium and simmer, stirring often, until thickened, 3 to 5 minutes. Fold in chicken and peas .

Transfer mixture to a 13"-x-9" baking dish. Arrange biscuits on top of filling. Sprinkle all over with salt and pepper.

Bake until filling is bubbling and biscuits are golden and risen, 22 to 25 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes before serving.

Pull-Apart Stuffing Ring

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS:

3/4 c. unsalted butter

2 c. chopped onion (1 large)

2 c. sliced celery (4 stalks)

1 c. chopped apple

3 tbsp. chopped fresh rosemary or tarragon

3 tbsp. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, basil, or sage

1 tsp. poultry seasoning

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 egg, lightly beaten

2 (16.3 oz) packages refrigerated biscuits, separated and cut into quarters

Fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 325°F.

Butter or grease a 10-inch fluted tube pan. In an extra-large skillet melt butter over medium. Cook onion, celery, and apple in butter 8 to 10 minutes or until tender.

Stir in fresh herbs, poultry seasoning, and 1/2 tsp. each kosher salt and black pepper. Cook and stir 1 minute. Transfer vegetable mixture to an extralarge bowl. Let cool 15 minutes. Stir in egg.

Add cut-up biscuits; toss to coat evenly. Spoon biscuit mixture into prepared pan. Press down lightly. Bake about 1 hour or until golden brown and a thermometer registers 160°F.

Transfer to a wire rack; let cool 10 minutes. Run a knife around edge of pan; invert stuffing ring onto a serving platter. Invert again.

Garnish with additional fresh parsley.

Mushroom Croissant Stuffing

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

10 MIN 50 MIN 10

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter

3 tbsp olive oil

2 (8 oz) pkgs diced celery and onions

2 (3.5 oz) pkgs sliced shiitake mushrooms

2 (8 oz) pkgs sliced baby bella mushroom

2 tsp dried thyme

2 large egg, beaten

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

16 croissants, torn into bite-sized pieces

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

In a large pot, heat the butter and oil on medium, until butter melts. Add the diced celery and onions. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook 8–10 min., until vegetables are almost tender, stirring often.

Add the mushrooms and thyme. Cook 10–12 min., until mushrooms are tender, stirring often. Remove from heat. Let cool slightly.

Into pot, stir in the eggs and broth. Add the croissants and toss until well combined. Transfer mixture to baking dish.

Cover with foil and bake 20 min. Remove foil and continue baking 10–15 min., until top is golden brown.

Lemony Brussels Sprout Slaw

INGREDIENTS:

1 lb. Brussels sprouts, trimmed

1/4 c. chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, toasted

1/4 c. raisins or dried cranberries

2 tbsp. chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley and/ or mint

1/2 lemon, seeded and thinly sliced

1 clove garlic, crushed and peeled

1/2 tsp. honey

1/2 tsp. whole-grain mustard

3/4 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. ground pepper

1/3 c. canola oil

DIRECTIONS:

Shred Brussels sprouts in a food processor with the slicing disk.

Transfer to a large bowl. Add nuts, raisins (or dried cranberries) and herbs. Stir to combine.

Change to the chopping blade and add lemon, garlic, honey, mustard, salt and pepper to the food processor.

Puree until smooth. With the motor running, drizzle in oil through the feed tube. Process until well combined.

Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to coat.

Roasted Vegetables with Pecan Crumble

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

40 MIN 1 HOUR 10

INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE CRUMBLE:

1/2 c. packed dark brown sugar

1/2 c. pecans, chopped

1/4 c. all-purpose flour

3 tbsp. salted butter, at room temperature

Pinch of smoked paprika

Kosher salt, to taste

FOR THE VEGETABLES:

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch-thick rounds

1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 3/4-inch cubes

1 lb. carrots, peeled and cut into 2 1/2-inch sticks

3 tbsp. olive oil

2 tsp. fresh thyme, chopped

1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

Black pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

FOR THE CRUMBLE:

Preheat the oven to 425°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine the brown sugar, pecans, flour, butter, paprika and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl and mash with a fork.

Spread the mixture on the baking sheet and bake until everything has melted together and the crumble is golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes. Let cool completely, about 20 minutes. Use your hands to crumble the mixture and set aside.

FOR THE VEGETABLES:

Combine the sweet potatoes, squash, carrots, oil, thyme, salt and a few grinds of pepper in a large bowl and toss.

Divide the vegetables between 2 baking sheets, spread them in an even layer and roast, switching the pans halfway through, until the vegetables are softened and golden brown in spots, 30 to 35 minutes. Transfer to a platter and top with the crumble.

RALPH SMITH www.thepioneerwoman.com

Garlic and Bacon Green Beans

INGREDIENTS:

1 lb. green beans , fresh, rinsed, ends trimmed

1/2 tsp. salt

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 tbsp. butter

6 garlic cloves , minced

6 bacon strips , cooked, drained of fat, chopped

DIRECTIONS:

Bring a large pot of water to boil, add green beans (water should be just above the beans), and ½ teaspoon salt.

Cook on medium-low heat for 5 minutes, drain the beans.

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet on medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook it, constantly stirring, for about 30 seconds.

Add chopped cooked bacon (drained of fat) and green beans. Saute on medium heat for about 1 minute to combine all ingredients.

Remove from heat. Taste and add more salt, if needed.

Orange Carrots with Yogurt Parsley Dressing

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

15 MIN 30 MIN 4

INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE CARROTS:

2 lb. small carrots

1/3 c. orange juice

3 tbsp. olive oil

2 tbsp. red wine vinegar

1 1/2 tbsp. Honey Kosher salt Black pepper

1/4 c. toasted pine nuts, for serving Chopped parsley, for serving

FOR THE YOGURT-PARSLEY DRESSING:

3/4 c. plain Greek yogurt

1 c. parsley

1 garlic clove

1 tbsp. lemon juice

1/2 tsp. ground coriander Kosher salt Black pepper

DIRECTIONS:

MAKE THE ORANGE CARROTS:

Preheat the oven to 425°F.

Combine carrots, orange juice, oil, vinegar, and honey on two rimmed baking sheets. Season with salt and pepper.

Bake, stirring vegetables and rotating the pans once, until tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Toss carrots with any liquid on the baking sheets.

MAKE THE YOGURT-PARSLEY DRESSING:

Process Greek yogurt, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, and ground coriander in a food processor, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed, until smooth, 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve topped with pine nuts, parsley, and Yogurt-Parsley dressing.

BRIAN WOODCOCK www.countryliving.com

Red-and-Green Fruit Salad with Mint Syrup

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 c. sugar

1/2 c. fresh mint

2 qt. strawberries, halved or quartered if large

1/2 honeydew melon, peeled, seeded, and chopped

1 c. red grapes, halved

1 c. green grapes, halved

4 kiwis, peeled and cut into half-moons

1/3 c. pomegranate seeds

DIRECTIONS:

FOR THE MINT SYRUP:

Bring the sugar and 1/2 cup water to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Remove from the heat and add the mint.

Let steep until the syrup cools, 20 to 30 minutes. Pour the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer, discarding the mint. Refrigerate in a covered container until ready to serve.

FOR THE SALAD:

Combine the strawberries, melon, grapes, kiwis, and pomegranate seeds in a large bowl and toss to combine. When ready to serve, drizzle the fruit with the mint syrup and gently toss to coat.

RALPH

Refreshing Fruit Salad

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS:

FOR

FOR

DIRECTIONS:

In a small bowl, whisk the lemon juice and honey together. Set aside.

Add all the cut fruit except the kiwi into a large serving bowl.

Pour the dressing over the fruit and with a large spoon gently combine together.

Cover and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Add the kiwi on top of the salad right before serving.

Apple Salad

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE CANDIED PECANS:

1/2 c. packed brown sugar

1/4 tsp. cinnamon

1/4 tsp. kosher salt

2 tbsp. water

1 c. pecans

FOR THE SALAD:

6 c. mixed greens

2 apples, thinly sliced

1/2 c. crumbled blue cheese

1/2 c. dried cranberries

FOR THE DRESSING:

2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar

1/2 shallot, finely chopped

1/2 tbsp. Dijon mustard

1/3 c. extra-virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS:

CANDY PECANS:

In a skillet over medium heat, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and water. Stir, letting sugar dissolve, then add pecans and toss until totally coated.

Let simmer 5 minutes until sticky, then remove from heat and let cool on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.

ASSEMBLE SALAD:

In a large bowl, combine greens, apples, candied pecans, blue cheese, and dried cranberries. Refrigerate until ready to dress and serve.

MAKE DRESSING:

In a bowl or glass jar, whisk together apple cider vinegar, shallot, dijon, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

Drizzle salad with dressing and toss to combine. Serve immediately.

Ultimate Winter Salad

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

20 MIN 20 MIN 4

INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE SALAD:

6 oz. Shredded Kale

1/2 small lemon, juiced

1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

6 oz. shredded vegetables, such as brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots

2 medium apples, cored and diced

1 1/2 c. candied pecans

4 oz. crumbled goat cheese

1 1/2 c. roasted butternut squash

1/2 c. pomegranate arils

FOR THE DRESSING:

1/2 c. red wine vinegar

4 tsp. whole grain or Dijon mustard

4 tsp. pure maple syrup

1/4 tsp. sea salt

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

1/2 c. extra virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS:

Put the shredded kale in a very large salad bowl. Add lemon juice and extra-virgin olive oil. Use your hands to massage the lemon juice and olive oil into the greens, about a minute or so.

The greens should wilt slightly and take on a deep green color.

MAKE THE CANDIED PECANS:

Put the pecans in a small skillet with 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup and 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard. Cook on medium-low heat until nuts are toasted and sticky, 5-6 minutes. There shouldn’t be any liquid left in the pan. Add a pinch of salt and remove from the pan to cool before adding them to the salad.

MAKE ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH:

Put the squash on a small baking sheet. Toss with 1 tablespoon of avocado oil and a pinch or two of sea salt. Roast at 425ºF until browned and soft, about 15–20 minutes. Add the other shredded vegetables/greens to the bowl as well as the chopped apple and pecans.

Make the dressing by combining all of the dressing ingredients in a lidded glass jar or canning jar. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds and then pour it over the salad. Mix well.

Add the crumbled goat cheese, butternut squash, and pomegranate arils on top. Serve.

NATALIE PERRY www.thepioneerwoman.com

Buttered Rosemary Rolls

INGREDIENTS:

Frozen, unbaked dinner rolls

Melted butter, regular, salted Fresh rosemary, coarsely chopped Coarse sea salt

DIRECTIONS:

Spray a small iron skillet with cooking spray (or coat with olive oil).

Place frozen rolls in the skillet, leaving plenty of room for rising. Cover and allow to rise for several hours. After rising, brush rolls with melted butter.

Sprinkle on chopped rosemary. Brush with additional butter. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

Bake according to roll package directions (usually 400 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes), until rolls are a deep golden brown on top.

Serve skillet on the table.

Cheesy Garlic Butter Rolls

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

25 MIN 1 HOUR 15

INGREDIENTS:

3 c. all-purpose flour, divided, plus more as needed

1 (1 1/4-oz.) packet Fleischmann's RapidRise Yeast

1 tbsp. granulated sugar

2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for topping

2 tsp. garlic powder

2 large eggs, beaten

3/4 c. milk, very warm (120°-130°, microwaved about 40 seconds)

4 tbsp. butter, melted, divided

1 1/4 c. shredded mozzarella, divided

Cooking spray

1 clove garlic, minced

2 tsp. freshly chopped parsley

Pinch crushed red pepper flakes

2 tbsp. freshly grated Parmesan

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375°

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour, Fleischmann’s RapidRise yeast, sugar, salt, and garlic powder.

In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Add wet ingredients to flour mixture and mix with a wooden spoon until combined. Add remaining 1 1/2 cups flour and ¾ cup mozzarella and mix until dough begins to become cohesive.

Transfer dough to a lightly floured work surface and knead, adding more flour if dough feels sticky, until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.

Transfer dough to a clean bowl and let rest 10 minutes. Grease a 9”-x-13” pan with cooking spray. Divide dough into 15 equal pieces and roll each into a ball, then place in prepared pan. Drape pan with dish towel and let dough rise until doubled in size, 1 hour.

Toward the end of the rise, in a small bowl, stir together remaining 2 tablespoons melted butter, garlic, parsley, and red pepper flakes and season with salt. Brush garlic butter onto rolls and sprinkle with Parmesan and remaining ½ cup mozzarella. Bake until rolls are puffy and golden, 25 minutes.

BRAD HOLLAND

Pumpkin Pecan Bread Pudding

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE BREAD PUDDING:

Cooking spray

3/4 c. pure pumpkin puree

2 large eggs

1 c. milk

1/2 c. heavy cream

1/2 c. packed dark brown sugar

4 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/4 tsp. ground ginger

1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg

7 c. day-old brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes

1/2 c. pecan halves, roughly chopped

BOURBON SAUCE:

1 c. granulated sugar

1/2 c. heavy cream

1 tbsp. bourbon

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350°F with the rack in the middle position.

Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish.

MAKE BREAD PUDDING:

Whisk together pumpkin, eggs, milk, cream, sugar, butter, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, ginger, and nutmeg in a bowl until smooth.

Fold in bread and pecans. Let stand 30 minutes. Transfer to prepared baking dish and bake until set, 30 to 35 minutes.

MAKE BOURBON SAUCE:

Combine sugar and 1/4 cup water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook, without stirring, until sugar mixture is dark amber in color, 12 to 15 minutes.

Remove from heat and carefully add cream and bourbon, stirring until smooth and creamy. Serve pudding with sauce alongside.

BRIAN WOODCOCK

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

15 MIN 15 MIN 20

INGREDIENTS:

2 c. old-fashioned whole rolled oats

1 c. all-purpose flour (spoon & leveled)

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. apple pie spice (or an extra tsp cinnamon)

1/4 c. unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

1/2 c. unsweetened applesauce*

3/4 c. packed dark or light brown sugar

1/2 c. granulated sugar

1 large egg, at room temperature

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

1/2 c. finely diced apple (about 1/2 of a large apple)

Optional: 1/2 c. chopped walnuts

MAPLE ICING:

1 1/2 c. confectioners’ sugar

2 tbsp. pure maple syrup

2 tbsp. milk

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.

Whisk the oats, flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and apple pie spice (if using) together in a large bowl.

Whisk the butter, applesauce, brown sugar, and white sugar together until combined. Then whisk in the egg and vanilla.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Fold in the apples and walnuts. The cookie dough will be thick and sticky.

Using a medium cookie scoop, scoop cookie dough into balls (about 2 Tbsp of dough each) and place 3 inches apart on the cookie sheet.

Slightly flatten the balls out.

Bake for 14-15 minutes or until lightly browned and set on the edges.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes on the cookie sheet before icing.

MAKE THE ICING:

Whisk all of the ingredients together and drizzle over cookies.

Christmas Tree Brownies

INGREDIENTS:

Cooking spray

1 box brownie mix, plus ingredients called for on box

3/4 c. (1 1/2 sticks) butter, softened

4 c. powdered sugar

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

2 tbsp. heavy cream

Pinch kosher salt

Green food coloring

6 candy canes

Sprinkles, for decorating

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350°.

Line a 9x13 with parchment, leaving a 2” overhang on the long sides and grease with cooking spray.

Make brownie mix according to package directions. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in middle of pan comes out with a few moist crumbs, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool completely.

In a large bowl using a hand mixer or in the bowl of a stand mixer using the paddle attachment, beat butter until smooth.

Add powdered sugar and beat until combined, then add vanilla, heavy cream, and salt. (If you desire a thinner consistency, add 1 more tablespoon cream.)

Add green food coloring until desired color is reached. Transfer to a piping bag with small open star tip.

Remove brownie from pan and cut into 3 long rows, then cut each row into 6 triangles each for a total of 18 triangles.

Cut candy canes into 3” long pieces and insert into the bottom of each brownie to create a trunk.

Pipe a zigzagging line on top of brownie and top with sprinkles for ornaments.

Cookie Dough Trifle

PREP COOKING SERVINGS

20 MIN 20 MIN 8

INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE COOKIE DOUGH:

1 1/2 c. (3 sticks) butter, softened

1 1/2 c. packed brown sugar

1 tbsp. pure vanilla extract

3 1/4 c. crushed graham crackers

1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/3 c. milk

1 1/3 c. mini chocolate chips

FOR THE WHIPPED CREAM:

1 c. mini chocolate chips, plus more for topping

2 (8-oz.) packages whipped cream, thawed

8 chocolate chip cookies (like Chips Ahoy), plus more for topping

FOR THE CHOCOLATE PUDDING:

2 (3.4-oz.) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix

4 c. cold milk

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Mix in graham crackers, salt, and milk, then fold in chocolate chips.

Crumble and pour 1/3 of the mixture into the bottom of a trifle dish.

MAKE THE WHIPPED CREAM LAYER: Mix chocolate chips and Cool Whip. Pour 1/3 of the mixture on top of the cookie dough in the trifle dish. Top whipped cream layer with a layer of chocolate chip cookies.

MAKE CHOCOLATE PUDDING LAYER:

Combine pudding mix and milk, whisking until granules have dissolved. Let pudding set, 5 minutes, then pour 1/3 of the mixture on top of the cookies, smoothing to create an even layer. Repeat layers until you've reached the top of the dish.

Cover the entire trifle with remaining whipped cream. Refrigerate at least 2 hours, to soften the cookie layers. Top with chocolate chips and crumbled cookie pieces before serving.

PARKER FEIERBACH

Turkey Leftovers?

Turkey & Spicy Hummus Clubs

INGREDIENTS:

1 (10-oz) container hummus

1 tbsp. Asian chili sauce

1/4 c. light mayonnaise

1/4 tsp. smoked paprika

8 slices reduced-sodium bacon

DIRECTIONS:

In small bowl, stir together hummus and chili sauce. In another small bowl, stir together mayonnaise and smoked paprika.

Place 4 slices bacon on paper-towel–lined microwave-safe plate. Cover with paper towel. Microwave on high 3 to 4 minutes or until crisp. Repeat with remaining 4 slices bacon and clean paper towels. Let cool

completely; crumble. Spread 1 tablespoon mayonnaise on one side of 4 slices bread. Spread 2 tablespoons hummus on one side of remaining slices of bread.

For each sandwich: Place one-fourth of turkey on 1 slice of bread with hummus. Place bread with mayonnaise on top. Layer 2 slices bacon, one-fourth of arugula, and one-fourth of tomatoes on top of mayo. Top with another slice of bread with hummus.

Pulled Cran-Turkey Sandwiches

INGREDIENTS:

2/3 c. leftover cranberry sauce

3 tbsp. ketchup

2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

1/2 tsp. smoked paprika

4 c. shredded leftover cooked turkey meat

DIRECTIONS:

1/4 c. lower-sodium chicken broth

1/2 c. mayonnaise

4 hamburger buns

1 c. shredded carrots

Dill pickle slices

In 2-quart saucepan, whisk cranberry sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire, smoked paprika, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Cook on medium 2 minutes or until hot.

Meanwhile, in microwave-safe baking dish or bowl, combine turkey and broth. Cover with vented plastic wrap and microwave on high 2 minutes or until hot.

Add cranberry mixture to turkey; stir until well coated. Spread mayonnaise on buns; top each with one-fourth of turkey mixture. Top turkey with carrots and pickle slices.

Buffalo Turkey Sandwich

INGREDIENTS:

1/4 c. lowfat sour cream

2 tsp. fresh lemon juice

1/3 tsp. sugar

1/3 tsp. kosher salt

1/3 tsp. pepper

2 c. shredded iceberg lettuce

DIRECTIONS:

2 scallions

2 tbsp. crumbled blue cheese

2 tbsp. buffalo wing sauce

4 tbsp. water

6 oz. shredded turkey

2 bread rolls

In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, lemon juice, sugar, kosher salt, and pepper. Fold in shredded iceberg lettuce, scallions, and crumbled blue cheese. In a small skillet, whisk together Buffalo wing sauce and water.

Add shredded turkey and cook over medium heat until heated through. Form sandwiches with bread rolls, the turkey mixture, and the blue cheese salad.

CON POULOS

JOHN KERNICK WWW.COUNTRYLIVING.COM

to watch this Christmas Movies Holiday Season

Tis the season to curl up on the couch with a cozy knitted throw and steaming hot cup of cocoa while watching a classic holiday film! We’ve compiled a list of some of the best holiday movies to watch during the season! Grab your favorite festive pj’s and turn on one of these awesome flicks.

The Santa Clause (1994) Gremlins (1984)

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989) Scrooged (1988) Die Hard (1988)

Miracle on 34th Street (1947 ) (1994) White Christmas (1954) The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) Trading Places (1983) Home Alone (1990) Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) The Year Without Santa Claus (1974)

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) Bad Santa (2003)

Love Actually (2003) How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966) (2000)

Elf (2003)

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

A Christmas Story (1983) It's a Wonderful Life (1946) Planes, Trains & Automobiles 1987

The Polar Express (2004) Santa Claus: The Movie (1985) Frosty The Snowman (1969)

Decorating Your Christmas Tree TOP TIPS FOR

LIKE A PRO

Decorating a Christmas tree is a time-honored tradition for families all over the globe. What better way to celebrate the holiday season than by cozying up with friends and family by a beautifully decorated tree? That is why we want to gift you with the tools you need to dress your tree like a pro!

Let’s start off with the actual tools and items you’ll need to get the job done. If you have some of these items lying around already, get creative and see if they will work! Your tree doesn’t have to be perfect, it’s just about making a tree that represents you. And you might just save a few bucks in the process. Keep reading to see our recommendations.

STEP 1. GATHER THE FAMILY

Decorating the tree is a family affair by nature. Gather the people closest to you to take part in this special tradition and maybe make a batch of cookies and play some holiday music to set the vibe.

STEP 2. CHOOSE A THEME

Deciding the theme of your tree will set the stage for the rest of your decorations. Whether you like a traditional look, minimalist, maximalist, monochrome, or sentimental, choose what will best represent YOU. Be sure to look at how you have decorated the rest of your home, what items you already have access to, and the flexibility of your budget.

STEP 3. DECIDE ON YOUR TREE

Don’t let your Christmas Vacation-sized dreams make your eyes bigger than your living room when it comes to the tree. Be realistic about what will fit in your home and don’t forget to account for a tree topper and your front door. You will also need to decide whether you are going to get a real tree or go artificial. Real trees take far more upkeep, only last one year, and may be a fire hazard, but nothing beats that smell of real pine! Choose the size, type, and theme that best suits your needs.

We do recommend staying away from trendy designs for artificial trees like inverted trees, overly sparse trees, or trees with artificial color. These trends are sure to fade out soon and you just might regret having it next year!

STEP 4. SHOP FOR DECORATIONS

Now that you know the size and theme for your tree, it’s time to shop for decorations. You will need approximately 80 decorations for a 7.5 ft tree to decorate it properly. We recommend picking up lights, garland or ribbon, various ornaments of different sizes (but stick to one theme!), a subtle tree skirt, and a tree topper to finish the look. Picking a core color, like red, with neutral accents, like black, white, or nude, can instantly bring a sense of togetherness to your tree. Be sure to aim for color matching, even with your metallics as trying to pair differing shades or saturations will be noticeable.

STEP 5. PREP THE TREE

Bringing your tree home isn’t the final step before you start decorating. Prepping through fluffing and shaping can make all the difference for a thicker, fuller, more natural-looking tree. Now is the time to put on those gloves to protect your hands from any extra pointy branches.

For both natural and artificial trees, start from the bottom and work your way up, slowly separating the branches from one another. Position each branch individually and don’t let it look too uniform. If you have an artificial tree, you might even want to bend the branches a bit to make it look more natural. For real trees, take out the heavy-duty scissors and trim away any obviously out-of-place pieces.

STEP 6. DECORATE!

Arguably the most fun part, there is more strategy to putting decorations on a tree than you might think.

A. LIGHTS

This will be your base layer and will be what makes your Christmas tree glow from the inside out. Start at the bottom where the lights will plug into the wall. Slowly wrap the lights around the tree, weaving them above and below the branches as you go. Once you reach the top, weave the lights back down to add layers.

B. GARLAND

Garland comes in all shapes and sizes. Our favorites are ribbon and beads. Don’t feel forced to use just one! Using a couple different types of garlands can add additional layers and texture to your tree. Start your garland at the top and work your way down, ensuring your garland is closer to the tips of the branches than the lights.

C. ORNAMENTS

No matter your theme, good ornaments are a necessity. Once you have yours picked out and purchased, it’s time to start hanging them on the tree. Put the largest ornaments between the bottom and the middle of the tree and the smaller, more delicate ones toward the top. Alternate colors, patterns and finishes so that the tree looks balanced. Put your favorite or more sentimental ornaments on places where they will be seen, at eye level on the front of the tree.

D. TREE PICKS

This one is optional but can add that special touch that takes your tree from pretty to professional. Tree picks can come in many different styles from pinecones to berries to metallic branches. They are a great way to add a little color and dimension if your tree is feeling flat.

E. TREE SKIRT

If you want to perfect that HGTV Christmas cover look for your tree, a tree skirt is essential. Depending on your theme, we recommend a subtle color and pattern that won’t take away from the rest of the tree. Don’t forget to account for the size and type of tree.

F. TREE TOPPER

The best step is saved for last. Hopefully, you accounted for your topper when picking out your tree. If you did, now it’s time to pull out the step stool and a friend to steady you as you place it right on top.

The real way to finalize your tree is by lighting it with family and surrounding it with gifts and smiles. No matter the final results, that tree is yours and full of special memories you can take with you for next year.

Why You Should Consider CONDOS as Part of Your

HOME SEARCH

The historically low inventory over the past few years led to challenges for many buyers trying to find a home that met their needs and their budget. If you’re in the same boat, you should know the recent shift in the housing market may have opened up doors for you to restart your search.

The inventory of homes for sale has increased this year, and that’s giving buyers much needed options. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com, says: “. . . today’s shoppers have more than 5 homes to consider for every 4 they had at this time a year ago.”

But perspective is important. Overall, housing supply is still low. If you need even more choices, expanding your search by adding additional housing types, like condominiums, could help.

Exploring Condos Could Add Options That Fit Your Budget

One thing to consider is condos generally differ from single-family homes in average space and floorplans. But that size difference is one reason why condos can be a more affordable option. According to a recent report from realtor.com, condo buyers paid roughly 7% less for their home than buyers of other housing types last year. With rising mortgage rates and home prices, the relative affordability of a condo could be worth considering.

Remember, your first home doesn’t have to be your forever home. The important thing is to get your foot in the door as a homeowner. Buying a condo now can springboard you into a bigger home later on. An article from the Urban Institute explains: “Because condos and co-ops are generally more affordable, they tend to help first-time homebuyers step onto the first rung of the homeownership ladder. These buyers often use the equity on their condo to then purchase a larger single-family home.”

In other words, owning a condo will help you start building wealth in the form of home equity. In time, the equity you build can fuel a future purchase should you decide you want to buy a home with more space or different amenities.

Condo Living Provides Several Great Perks

Boosting the number of options in your budget during your home search is just one reason to consider condos, but there are several other benefits to condo living.

First, they tend to require minimal upkeep and lower maintenance – and that can give you more time to spend doing the things you enjoy. A recent article from Bankrate highlights this, saying:

“Condos can be a good option for anyone who wants to keep home maintenance to a minimum . . . if the roof is leaking or the carpet in the lobby needs to be replaced, that’s not your responsibility — the condo association handles those duties.”

Plus, since many condos are located in or near city centers, they offer the added benefit of being in close proximity to work and leisure. Again, realtor.com explains: “Buying a condo, which is generally less expensive than a single-family home, enables a household to afford to own in the middle of it all, and often means a newer-built home with less maintenance responsibility.”

Ultimately, owning and living in a condo can be a lifestyle choice. And if that appeals to you, they could give you the added options you need to buy your first home.

Bottom Line

Adding condominiums to your housing search could be a great move.