HOLIDAY DINING West 11-28-2024 by Richner Communications, Inc

HOLIDAY DINING Gift Guide

Add some glamour to your tablescaping

With preparations for holiday celebrations underway, the pressure is on to make sure everything is perfect, especially at the table. But, what do you see when you pull out your tableware? Is your silver as shiny as you remembered? Does your crystal sparkle like new? With the holiday season and other festive gatherings approaching, now is the time to make sure your dinnerware glitters.

“China, crystal and silver are made to be used regularly and, if cared for properly, these pieces can last for generations,” says china/crystal restoration expert Sara Vestal. “What’s unfortunate is the fact we see so much damage that can actually be prevented by avoiding some very common mistakes.”

Forgo the dishwasher

One of the biggest culprits Vestal sees is dishwasher damage.“The dishwasher is a huge enemy of fine dinnerware. Prongs on the racks may scratch the surface, while heat from the drying cycle can loosen gold or platinum trim on china, causing it to wear away. That cloudy or milky look you sometimes see on crystal is caused by the high heat actually baking lime, rust and other minerals from the dishwater into the pores of the crystal. Plus, the heat can loosen the adhesive in knife handles, potentially causing the handle to separate from the blade.”

She recommends washing your pieces by hand, even if labeled dishwasher safe. Avoid citrus-scented detergents — these contain acids that may damage the finish of china and silver. Also avoid detergents containing bleach;

Make your festive table sparkle

chlorine in these products may seep into the pores of china and crystal, causing damage even after rinsing.

Keep your china collection table-ready

The holidays are prime time to get out the “good” china. Whether you invested in your own collection or inherited a set from a family member, these treasured pieces make setting the table feel extra special. But once guests have gone home, putting it all away isn’t as simple as stacking everything in a cabinet or stowing it in a cardboard box. Fine china is more fragile than regular dinnerware and often includes intricate details, like gold rimming, hand-painted patterns, and delicate glazes.

Experts say these tips can help extend the life of your china.

Be mindful of temperature. Storing china in areas that are not temperature or humidity controlled can cause the glaze to become brittle and crack. If you don’t use your china regularly, wash it at least once each year to keep impurities from impregnating the finish. This keeps the glaze strong.

Use proper cleaning and storage techniques. Fine china can develop rust spots when washed with silver, so it is important to clean the two separately. To remove rust spots from china, rub a small amount of a Soft Scrub without bleach type cleaning product on the spot. If this doesn’t work, put a small amount of rubbing compound on a paper towel and apply in a circular motion.

Storage is extremely important when protecting your china. Put a cushioned layer

such as a coffee filter, napkin or flannel square between pieces to prevent scratching.

Avoid setting heavier bowls on plates and do not stack handled pieces, such as cups. Stacking weight can create tiny stress fractures which, over time, may cause plates to crack or handles to break off cups.

Don’t forget your crystal. Keep pieces sparkling with these simple steps.

Wash crystal in lukewarm water. Remember to remove jewelry that might scratch the delicate surface. One insider’s tip — add a small amount of vinegar to the rinse water to help prevent water spots.

Dry immediately. Only dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid twisting glasses from the base; this motion may create enough torque to break the stem.

Pay attention to storage. Store crystal pieces with the base down to protect the delicate rim. Remember to leave plenty of space between pieces. Glass expands in hot temperatures, so you want to make there’s enough breathing room so crystal items don’t touch.

Think of the table as your canvas and have fun. Bring out your favorite glassware, linens and dishes.

Cocktails with a kick

By Christopher Crown

As the winter holidays roll around, children put out milk and cookies for Santa, and adults can look forward to a different winter indulgence: spiced cocktails. Whether you choose these recipes to impress your co-workers at the Christmas party or you just want to enjoy one by the fire on a cold night, make the most of these seasonal drink specialties.

The inclusion of famous winter spices — such as anise, cinnamon, clove and nutmeg — in holiday food is steeped in history. Beyond the warming appeal of these sharp, intense flavors, many of our ancestors were mixing them up in traditional holiday foods and drinks for medicinal reasons.

In an article for Today’s Dietician magazine, Dr. Densie Webb cites that whether we know it or not, we’ve been using spiced holiday foods to combat the health problems we usually encounter during the dark, cold months. All of the previously mentioned spices “are rich in natural plant compounds that have been studied for their health-promoting and disease-preventing properties.” With the antioxidant properties in allspice, the antidepressant chemicals in star anise and the antimicrobial characteristics of larger doses of cinnamon, you can imbibe in some delicious holiday cocktails while taking care of your health and well-being.

Hot Spiced Wine

Although spiked eggnog will always be a hit, Food & Wine contributor John Besh offers a hot spiced wine that is sure to please your holiday guests. Although this drink has a wine base, don’t be fooled; the brandy backbone will sure pack a punch of flavor, and it can be altered for a more or less boozy drink.

• 2 bottles light-bodied red wine (such as pinot noir or grenache)

• 1 1/4 cups sugar

• Zest of 1 orange

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 3 black peppercorns, crushed

• 2 cardamom pods, crushed

• 1 3-inch cinnamon stick, crushed

• 1 clove, crushed

• 1/2 cup kirsch (cherry brandy)

In a large saucepan, combine the wine, the sugar and the orange and lemon zests. Put all the spices in a tea ball, and add it to the saucepan. Bring the wine to a very slow simmer

temperature overnight, reheating it just before serving. The citrus and spices will warm you up inside, and your senses. Serves: 12.

Holiday Spice Honey Syrup

If wine’s not your thing and you’re looking for something a bit stronger on a cold winter’s night, International Association of Culinary Professionals member Stacy Bryce of the Wicked Good Kitchen website recommends whipping up a batch of spiced simple syrup. This can be added to your favorite hot and cold drinks, and is a great ingredient to add that holiday feel to whatever liquor you keep around!

• 1 cup filtered/purified or distilled water

• 1 cup pure organic honey

• 1 cup organic granulated pure cane sugar

• 6 cloves, whole

• 6 star anise pods

• 6 allspice berries, whole

• 3 black peppercorns, whole

• 2 cinnamon sticks

In a small saucepan, combine water, sugar and honey. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar is dissolved, or about eight minutes. Add the cloves, star anise pods, allspice berries, peppercorns and cinnamon sticks, and bring the pot to a boil. Reduce heat to between low and medium-low, and simmer

Using a sieve lined with a small square of cheesecloth, strain the syrup into a large heatproof glass liquid measuring cup. Before using it in recipes, set it aside to cool completely and cover it with a small square of wax paper. Keep leftover syrup stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator.

Holiday Spice Bourbon Cocktail

Add Bryce’s spiced honey syrup to darker spirits, such as bourbon, to make a rich and flavorful cocktail perfect for Christmas and

3 ounces fine-quality bourbon

1 ounce fine-quality tart cherry liqueur 1/2 ounce holiday spice honey syrup, or more

1/2 ounce cranberry juice or fresh pomegranate juice, or more to taste 1/4 ounce fine-quality orange liqueur

• Fresh orange peel curl

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the cocktail ingredients and shake vigorously, about 20 seconds. Strain into glass filled with ice and garnishes as desired.

From wine to liquor, winter spices can lift your spirits in more ways than one. Although you might be losing the original healthfocused intent of these traditional holiday additions, live a little; ‘tis the season. Servings: 2.

Embrace centuries of holiday tradition and add some zest to your holiday booze this year.

Culinary inspiration

Great ideas for the foodie

Whether the foodie in your life aspires to culinary greatness or prefers whipping up cozy family meals, all cooks appreciate quality kitchen equipment. Here are some savory options to ensure a tasty holiday season.

Cutting Boards

The right cutting board should last for decades, neither warping nor splitting. It should also not dull one’s knives. Seek out a cutting board that is stable on your countertop and will respond well to your particular set of knives. Maintain wooden cutting boards by regularly oiling them in order to reduce their porousness.

For meats, look for high-quality plastic cutting boards, which are easy to sanitize. Just be sure to toss these cutting boards after they are worn out, as they are more prone to harbor bacteria after wear and tear.

High-Quality Cookware

Go-to staples need to be high-quality and highly-functional. A fry pan, for instance, should heat evenly, be very responsive to temperature, and ideally be ergonomic. While great cookware such as this usually comes with a premium price tag, you can usually capitalize on good deals at this time of year.

Immersion Blender

Space-saving, versatile and affordable, an immersion blender is perfect for any cook, however many people find their kitchens without one. Perfect for creating smooth purees, soups, and pesto, they also require less clean-up than full-size blenders or food processors, something to keep in mind when prepping a complicated holiday feast,

or looking to simplify weeknight dinners.

Professional-Quality Cutlery

Good knives are the foundation of a well-equipped kitchen. No other tool will improve the joy of cooking quite like a good chef’s knife. A dull, awkward knife is not only a hassle to use, but dangerous too. Both advanced chefs and beginner cooks will benefit from topquality high-carbon, stainless steel knives, such as a Hammer Stahl 6-inch chef knife and the 5.5-inch Santoku knife. Made in the tradition of the great German knife makers, Hammer Stahl, an American-made kitchenware brand is known for quality and performance. Knife handles are ergonomically designed with a comfortable grip to reduce fatigue. All Hammer Stahl knives are heirloom quality and guaranteed for life.

These are not intimidating knives. A shorter blade gives you more control over the knife, and is excellent for most basic tasks like slicing vegetables or chopping fresh herbs,” said Bobby Griggs, Hammer Stahl vice president.

Treat the chefs in your life to top-quality kitchen gear that’ always welcome in the kitchen.

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Creative gifting

Homemade is always appealing. So step into the kitchen — it can be the inspiration for Food Network-worthy treats and crafts. Whether you’re gifting a gracious host or just want a few extra presents on hand, flavorful and aromatic kitchen creations are a delicious way to show you care this holiday season.

“Christmas cookies are always a popular gift but they’re not the only homemade option for the cookie lovers on your list,” says Chef Kevan Vetter, of McCormick Kitchens.“A small jar of spreadable gingerbread cookie butter brings the taste of a classic holiday treat to unexpected places like toast and pancakes.”

So get into the kitchen and create a delicious gift with special appeal.

Gingerbread Cookie Butter

• 8 ounces gingerbread cookies, about 8 (3 1/2-inch long) cookies

• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

• 1/2 cup coconut oil

• 1/4 cup water

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Pulse cookies in food processor until resembling fine crumbs. Add sugar; pulse until just blended.

Heat oil and water in small saucepan on low heat until coconut oil is melted. Slowly add oil mixture to processor while pulsing. Add vanilla and spices; pulse until just blended. Makes 24 servings (1 tablespoon each).

Cinnamon Pine Fragrance Jar

• 2-3 pine branches (4 inches long)

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 teaspoon whole Jamaican allspice

• Water

Place pine, cinnamon and allspice inside 8-ounce jar. Pour water to fill jar, leaving 1/2-

Think homemade for a heartwarming holiday

inch headspace; seal.

Note: To add a lovely fragrance around the house, pour all contents of jar into small saucepan. Simmer on medium heat 10-15 minutes or until fragrant, adding additional water as needed.

Give the gift of homemade goodness. It’s a present from the heart that holds timeless appeal

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For the wellness guru

By Sharon Naylor Toris

Give the timeless gift of spiritual healing

How wonderful to give a gift that brings harmony, healing and happiness to our loved one! These days, it seems everyone is searching for remedies to these stressful times with ease and selfcare, so you likely have more than a few wellness seekers on your gift list.

Luckily, there are many types of wellness gift ideas out there with which you can show to your loved one your support of their self-care path.

“Self-care is one of the most important things we can do for ourselves, our loved ones and our future,” says Kelly Christmas, owner of The Rock Box Life gift shop. “When we do not put ourselves first, we sacrifice our ability to fully be there for those we love and jeopardize our capability to reach our full potential.” This philosophy said and embraced by millions leads to a lifestyle of calming and centering oneself, of gently peeling back the layers of our tensions and anxieties, and welcoming even the tiniest ritual for feeling good.

Here are some of the most popular types of items on the wellness guru’s gift wish list.

Crystals

Crystals are said to possess healing properties. To whatever degree you embrace that, the gift of crystals often feels tremendously supportive and centering. Your gift may be a natural-edged chunk of crystal, a smoothed crystal sphere or a piece of crystal shaped into coasters or some other lifestyle item. You’ll find many types, colors and shapes of crystals, each imbued with some energetic or healing qualities.

For instance,“Clear quartz is a spiritual must-have and is usually one of the first crystals people are introduced to,” says Christmas. “Clear quartz is often referred to as the stone of power for its abilities to amplify energy and intentions,

including that of other stones. Not to mention clear quartz cleanses, opens, activates and aligns all the chakras while protecting you from invasive, negative or heavy energy, making this spectacular crystal the perfect partner as you navigate your spiritual journey.”

Some additional crystal types and meanings commonly ascribed to them:

• Smokey quartz: provides grounding, calms anxiety and helps to connect you with the world.

• Larimar: reduces stress and facilitates angelic connection.

• Pink opal: heals emotional pain, aids in balance and assists with releasing fear, worry or anxiety

• Carnelian: boosts physical vitality and supports your passions and goals

You’ll find plenty of crystal meanings listed online to help you make your choices. A powerful gift to your secret Santa or person on your gift list is a fabric bag filled with a pretty collection of positive and supporting crystals.

Candles

Gifting candles will usually focus on the color and scent of the candle you choose. In the healing and wellness sector of the candle industry, you’ll see candles marked with meanings, such as ‘Peaceful Sleep’ imbued with lavender, ‘Vanilla Goodness’ with a grounding vanilla scent, ‘Jasmine in Paradise’ to support dreams of

travel and adventure, and so on.

From mini candles packaged as spa kits with scented eye masks, to large pillar candles, pretty tapers and spirals, candles come in any shape that can be poured for a pretty gift.

Aromatherapy

Joining candles are aromatherapy gifts such as scented pillows, aromatherapy mists and even stuffed animals containing sachets of lavender. Much has been written about the calming or energizing effect of aromatherapy products, and essential oils and diffusers join the list of popular wellness gifts this year.“You can mist your whole space or home, as well as your skin,” says Christmas, who also mentions misting your displays of crystals and geodes in your home or office.

Keep in mind that it can be challenging to select a scent that may be new to your gift recipient. You don’t always know what’s going to smell good to them. Take a peek at the scents on display in their home. Or while you’re cooking or dining with them, ask

them if they love the scent of lemongrass. Seek out hints to what they already love, and leave the adventurous aromatherapy picks to them.

Books

Gift shops and bookstores carry little gift books of crystal meanings and moon sign predictions, tarot cards and uplifting quotes. Books are always a favorite gift at Christmas, especially when paired with chocolate or cocoa packets for gifts with a wellness feel.

Wearable Wellness

In symbolism, pretty colors and designs, wellness fashion pieces are always in demand as uplifting or calming holiday gifts. Consider the following items on trend for this holiday season:

√ Aromatherapy hair scrunchies

√ Anklets with small crystals or stones

√ Jewelry, including power beads or crystals like clear quartz, amethyst, citrine or other meaningful choices

√ Tee shirts featuring wellness, yoga and meditation sayings

√ Tote bags

√ Journals

Be the friend who is aware of and supports a loved one’s wellness efforts with a gift that calls to the best of their goals and may add to or begin an uplifting collection.

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In the holiday kitchen

Traditional Hanukkah treats always have a place on the table

We may be still munching on Thanksgiving leftovers, but soon Jewish families will be feasting on some luscious, crispy potato latkes. This holiday treat is more than a symbol of the miracle of Hanukkah, it offers a great opportunity to gather the family and friends in the kitchen and share in the spirit of the season. In fact, why not put a new twist on the latke tradition and fry up a bunch of different versions and judge which type is the best — as in a “Latke Top Chef”?

Traditional Latkes Makes approximately 12 palm-sized latkes

• 4 medium potatoes

• 1 medium onion

• 2 eggs

• 1/2 cup matzah meal (flour or bread crumbs can be substituted)

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon each salt and black pepper (more or less to taste)

• Vegetable oil

1. Shred the potatoes and onion into a large bowl. Press out all excess liquid.(if using a food

processor, use the chopping blade for 2 or 3 seconds after pressing out liquid to avoid stringy fly-aways). Add eggs and mix well. Add matzah meal gradually while mixing until the batter is doughy, not too dry. (you may not need the whole amount, depending on how well you drained the veggies). Add the baking powder, salt and pepper and mix well. Don’t worry if the batter turns a little orange; that will go away when it fries.

2. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil to medium-high heat. Form the batter into thin patties about the size of your palm. Fry batter in oil. Be patient: this takes time, and too much flipping will burn the outside without cooking the inside. Flip when the bottom is golden brown.

3. Place finished latkes on paper towels to drain. Eat hot with sour cream or applesauce. They reheat OK in a microwave, but not in an oven unless you cook them just right.

4. If you’d like to try something a little different, add some bell

peppers, parsley, carrots, celery, or other vegetables to the batter to make veggie latkes! You may need to add a third egg and some more matzah meal for this. For a zesty twist, add some diced jalepeño peppers to the batter! This should definitely be served with sour cream!

Sweet Potato Latkes

• 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and coarsely grated

• 2 scallions, finely chopped

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 3/4 cup vegetable oil

1. Stir together potatoes, scallions, flour, eggs, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat oil in a deep 12-inch nonstick skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not

smoking. Working in batches of 4, spoon 1/8 cup potato mixture per latke into oil and flatten to 3-inch diameter with a slotted spatula. Reduce heat to moderate and cook until golden, about 1 1/2 minutes on each side. Transfer latkes with spatula to paper towels to drain. Note: For a variation, spice it up by adding some nutmeg, garlic powder, cumin or experiment with a seasoning of your choice.

Hanukkah latkes and sufganiyot (the holiday’s deep-fried jelly doughnuts) are enduring, tasty holiday treats are always in style.

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Perfectly Pumpkin

Jazzed-up pumpkin pie recipes

By Kristen Castillo

Nothing says holiday dessert like pumpkin pie, but even this traditional recipe can get a little, well, boring. So jazz up this seasonal sweet with flavors raging from cream cheese to bourbon. These recipes are so tasty you may make more than one!

Pumpkin Pie Layered Cheesecake

Take your standard pumpkin pie and combine it with cream cheese for a delicious twist!

Graham cracker crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/3 cup butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

Cheesecake filling:

• 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup sugar

• 4 eggs

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin

• 1/4 cup flour

• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 325° F. For the crust, mix all ingredients in medium bowl. Press evenly onto bottom and up sides of 9-inch springform pan. For the filling, beat cream cheese and sugar in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low after each until blended. Add sour cream; mix well. Remove 1-cup batter to medium bowl; beat in pumpkin, flour and pumpkin pie spice until smooth. Stir vanilla into remaining plain batter. Pour half of the vanilla batter into crust. Gently pour pumpkin batter over top. Top with remaining vanilla batter. Bake 50 minutes or until center is almost set. Turn off oven; let cheesecake stand in oven 2 hours or until cooled. Remove from oven.

Refrigerate four hours or overnight. Run small knife around sides of pan to loosen crust; remove sides of pan. Store leftover cheesecake in refrigerator.

Pumped-Up Pumpkin Pie Bites

This recipe from author and celebrity chef, Devin Alexander combines whole-grain cereal with maple syrup, cinnamon, agave nectar and other ingredients for a bite-size holiday treat.

Butter-flavored cooking spray

• 3/4 cup whole grain, crunchy, high-fiber, low-sugar cereal

• 2 tablespoons 100 percent pure maple syrup

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 8 large egg whites

• 1 can (15 ounces) solid pumpkin puree

• 3/4 cup agave nectar

• 2 tablespoons whole-wheat pastry flour

• 2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 1/4 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2/3 cup “Cut the crap” whipped topping (recipe below)

Preheat the oven to 350° F. Lightly mist an 11-by-7-inch glass or ceramic baking dish with spray. Add the cereal to food processor fitted with chopping blade. Process for 15 to 20 seconds or until the cereal is crushed. Transfer to a small mixing bowl and add the maple syrup and cinnamon. Mix them until well-combined. Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Gently press down on the cereal mixture, spreading it evenly across the bottom of the dish. Bake for 7 to 9 minutes, or until slightly browned. Set aside.

Meanwhile, add the egg whites to a large mixing bowl. Using a sturdy whisk, lightly beat them until they bubble very slightly. Still using the whisk, stir in the pumpkin, agave and flour until well-combined. Stir in the vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder and salt and continue mixing until well-combined. Pour the filling over the baked crust. Using a rubber spatula, spread it into an even layer.

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out dry. Transfer the dish to a wire cooking rack, allowing it to cool to room temperature. Carefully cut 32 pumpkin bites. Just before

serving, top each bite with 1 teaspoon whipped topping, if desired. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Makes 16 servings.

“Cut the crap” whipped topping

• 3/4 cup light agave nectar

• 3 large egg whites, room temperature

• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar

Add water to a medium saucepan until about 1/4 full. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Off the heat, combine the agave, egg whites and cream of tartar in a large metal or heavy-duty glass mixing bowl (that fits atop your saucepan).

Beat on medium-high with an electric mixer fitted with beaters until well-blended. Place the bowl over the pot of boiling water. (Wear an oven mitt while holding the bowl over the heat, as it will get very hot). Beat for about 7 minutes, occasionally running the beaters around the sides of the bowl, until stiff peaks form. Remove the bowl from the water and continue beating for 5 to 7 minutes more, rotating the bowl and scraping down the sides with the beaters, or until the mixture is thick, fluffy and has very stiff peaks. Makes about 6 cups.

Who says pie has to be sliced into wedges? Get creative with pumpkin pie bites.

Host the perfect holiday dinner

By Aaron Brown

The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness and indulgence. As families and friends gather around the table, the pressure to host a flawless dinner can feel overwhelming. But with the right planning and a few expert tips, you can create a memorable celebration that’s as stress-free as it is spectacular.

Whether you’re a seasoned entertainer or hosting your first holiday dinner, these insights will help you craft the perfect experience for your guests.

Plan Ahead

The foundation of any successful event lies in thoughtful planning. Begin by creating a timeline at least two weeks before Christmas. This gives you ample time to organize your menu, source ingredients and set up any decorations.

Make sure to include the number of guests, dietary restrictions and the courses you’ll be serving.

Pro tip: Assign someone to bring appetizers or dessert while you focus on the main course. Not only will this lighten your load, but it will also add variety to the meal.

Craft A Thoughtful Menu

A classic holiday dinner doesn’t have to be complicated, but it should cater to a range of tastes. For the main course, consider a turkey, ham or beef roast. If you have vegetarian or vegan guests, prepare a hearty dish such as a nut roast or a festive stuffed squash.

When selecting sides, aim for a mix of textures and flavors. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes and a fresh green salad are simple yet satisfying. Cranberry sauce and stuffing add a sweet and savory balance to the meal.

Pro tip: Gravy, sauces and even some desserts can be prepped in advance, freeing up oven space

Expert tips for an unforgettable celebration

and saving time on the big day.

Set The Atmosphere

Creating the right atmosphere is key to making your guests feel welcome and comfortable. Start by setting the table with care. A festive tablecloth, elegant dinnerware, and candles can transform a simple meal into an unforgettable event.

For a warm, inviting ambiance, opt for soft lighting and cozy decor. Twinkling fairy lights, a well-decorated Christmas tree and classic holiday music can set a festive mood.

Pro tip: Personalize each place setting with name cards or small gifts. It adds a thoughtful touch and makes everyone feel special.

Timing Is Everything

One of the trickiest parts of hosting a holiday meal is ensuring everything is served hot and on time. To keep things running smoothly, create a cooking

schedule. Start with dishes that take the longest to prepare, such as the roast, and work backward from there.

Pro tip: Serve appetizers or a cheese board while the main course is finishing in the oven. This will keep your guests satisfied without filling them up before the meal.

Don’t Forget The Drinks

A well-rounded dinner includes a thoughtful selection of beverages. Champagne makes for a festive start. Red wines such as pinot noir or cabernet sauvignon complement roasted meats, while a crisp white such as chardonnay

pairs well with lighter dishes and sides.

For nondrinkers and younger guests, offer a festive punch or homemade mocktails. Mulled wine and spiced cider also contribute to a cozy atmosphere.

Pro tip: Be inclusive of all your guests by having a variety of nonalcoholic options for all age ranges, not just the kids.

End On A Sweet Note

Holiday desserts are a must! A traditional Christmas pudding or a rich yule log will satisfy the sweet tooth of any guest. But don’t feel limited by tradition — consider offering a selection of sweets, such as gingerbread cookies, a festive trifle or a simple fruit tart.

If you’re short on time, remember that presentation is everything — top store-bought cakes or pies with whipped cream, fresh berries or sprigs of mint to make them feel homemade.

Pro tip: Offer a cheese plate or chocolates alongside dessert. These small touches give guests something to nibble on while they linger at the table.

Relax And Enjoy

Perhaps the most important tip of all: don’t forget to enjoy the day! Hosting Christmas dinner is a labor of love, but it’s important to relax and savor the time spent with your loved ones. After all, Christmas is about more than just the food -- it’s about creating memories and cherishing the company of those around you.

A beautiful table makes guests feel festive as soon as they walk in.

Spice up the season

Whether this holiday marks your culinary debut or you’re a seasoned chef looking for a fresh take on seasonal favorites, you can take some notes from the pros. Every good chef has an arsenal of tricks and techniques to create amazing dishes every time, and the perfect blend of spices is one of those winning secrets. In a properly seasoned dish, the spice accents the natural flavors without overpowering them. Add flavor-rich, seasonal spices to your holiday table with these flavorful recipes.

Cranberry Apple Chutney

• 1 bag (12 ounces) fresh or frozen cranberries

• 1/4 cup water

• 2 large apples, cored and chopped

• 1 1/2 cups sugar

• 2/3 cup finely chopped onion

• 2/3 cup golden raisins

• 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 3/4 teaspoon ground allspice

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

• 2/3 cup dark corn syrup

• 1/3 cup cider vinegar

• 2/3 cup chopped pecans

Flavorful holiday dishes for every course

In large saucepan, combine cranberries, water, apples, sugar, onion, raisins, ginger, garlic, salt, allspice, cinnamon and cloves. Bring to boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat; cover, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes. Add corn syrup, vinegar and pecans. Cook uncovered 15 minutes, stirring frequently.

Serve with roast turkey. Yields 2 cups.

Butternut Squash Soup with Thyme Butter

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 3 pounds (about 7 cups) butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces

• 2 medium cooking apples, peeled, cored and coarsely chopped

• 2 small onions, coarsely chopped

• 2 cans (14 1/2 ounces each) chicken broth, divided

• 1/2 cup water

Thyme butter:

• 1/4 cup butter, softened

• 1/2 teaspoon thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Preheat oven to 425 F. In large bowl, combine oil, ginger and

cayenne pepper. Add squash, apples and onions; toss to coat. Transfer to 15-by-10-inch baking pan. Roast in single layer 35-45 minutes, or until tender. Remove from oven.

Working in batches, combine squash mixture and one can chicken broth in blender or food processor; blend until smooth. Transfer pureed mixture to large saucepan. Stir in remaining chicken broth and water. Bring soup to boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 10 minutes. Yields 6-8 servings.

To make thyme butter: Combine butter, thyme and garlic powder until well blended. Spoon onto wax paper and roll into 3-inch log; wrap tightly and refrigerate until firm.

To serve, cut butter into thin slices. Ladle hot soup into individual bowls; top each with slice of butter.

Tip: Puree can be made in advance, covered and refrigerated up to 2 days.

Put the earth on your gift list

Green holiday gift wrap

By Chelle Cordero

When making your holiday shopping list this year, don’t forget to give a gift to our planet and all its inhabitants. According to the Environmental Protection Agency blog,“Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, American household waste increases by more than 25 percent. Trash cans full of holiday food waste, shopping bags, bows and ribbons, packaging, and wrapping paper contribute an additional 1 million tons a week to our landfills.”

Reducing waste can cut down greenhouse gas emissions, helps conserve our natural resources and has positive effects for future generations. Here are a few terrific holiday gift wrap alternatives so you can help the environment (and have a bit of family fun at the same time).

Wrap away, but don’t be wasteful

It’s fun to watch everyone’s eyes light up at the sight of gaily wrapped surprises. But in just minutes, the wrapping is torn off; the bows are scattered; the boxes are ripped open; and there is a pile being dumped into the garbage can for transport to the local dump.

Why waste money on throwaway wrapping paper that will have less than a few minutes’ worth of glory and use when you can make a gift presentation that will last? You can still have the pleasure of surprising your loved ones with terrific gifts and even make a commotion about the presentation while you begin to reduce, reuse and recycle.

Get creative

Plan a family day to make your own wrapping paper. Get a newsprint pad from your favorite art supply store; get a roll of plain craft paper; or even collect a bunch of brown paper shopping bags, and gather around your table with crayons or colored pencils.

Draw pictures and colorful designs, and then wrap your holiday gifts with this homemade gift wrap. Make sure the kids sign their artwork. It will meaningful for grandparents to receive a gift adorned with a special wrapping just for them. Adults will also enjoy letting their inner child come out as they decorate.

Add that personal touch

Wrap your presents in everyday materials like newspaper, print and all, and tie them with colorful fabric ribbons. It’s inexpensive. The paper is completely biodegradable. And fabric ribbons are reusable.

You can use either the comics section with a simple bow or just the printed newspaper (no color or ads) for the classiest look. Stop before you throw out last year’s (or older) colorful road maps and calendars; you can use them to wrap packages instead. Most tissue paper is made from recycled materials (read the package label). If you need to place a gift in a box with tissue, use colorful wrapping for the box.

Fabrics are a completely reusable option. Silk scarves, dinner napkins and other swatches of fabric can be pulled around a package and the corners tied together for a touch of whimsy. It’s easy to make the wrapping part of the present, too: Use a small canvas tote bag for your favorite book lover. A decorative T-shirt can wrap an odd-shaped gift or a doll. Stuff a manicure set into cotton gloves. Wrap a recipe book with a cooking apron. Or bundle personal toiletries in a bath towel.

Presents that stand out

In many cases, a present can stand on its own with just a fabric ribbon to adorn it. For example, place seeds and small hand gardening tools inside a clay pot. Put tea bags inside a mug. Special dinner fixings can be served up in a decorative mixing bowl. Or fill a plastic toolbox with an assortment of handyman tools. If you need a container, use a plain white cardboard gift box tied with a fabric ribbon for color.

Wrapping paper and gift bags might still be the preferred option. If so, look for recycled paper products and avoid the shiny metallics that aren’t biodegradable. And just in case your family members and friends aren’t as proactive about reusable gift wrap, don’t rip the packages you receive to shreds. Fold the gift wrap neatly, and save those bows to reuse it all yourself.

Rather than head out to the store to buy all new gift wrap, challenge yourself to look around the house for items you already have and put a creative spin on them. You’ll declutter, save money and minimize your gift wrap footprint, an all-around win for you and the planet.

Plain brown paper and a fabric ribbon can make an attractive package under the tree or by the menorah.

Greening our world

Shower the gardeners — or future gardneners in your life with the tools they need to grow beautiful and delicious things. Whether your recipient already has a green thumb or is just thinking about starting a new hobby, there are some great gift ideas out there for every level of gardening interest and skill.

Also keep in mind that many gardeners are also bird-watchers, and a combination of small gifts in a single gift basket would be a good idea. That idea can be used for gardeners that are also culinarily inclined.

Basket Of Gardening Goodies

Many vegetable gardeners also like to cook their produce, so make a combined basket that fits both hobbies. Find a basket, bowl or colander, along with a soup spoon, ladle or other accessories. Add some seed packages, a few peat moss pots, a pair of gloves and a package of plant labels. Pull it all together with a bow and some ribbon and you have a great gift package.

Book It

Everyone gets stumped from time-to-time when planning meals or figuring out how best to incorporate a fresh harvest into tonight’s dinner. Consider gifting a little inspiration. Any vegetable gardener will appreciate a great cookbook that focuses on cooking with fresh

herbs and vegetables.

Great ideas for the gardeners among us

There are many options — from cookbooks that focus on vegetable side dishes to vegetarian ones where veggie main dishes take center stage.

Also it turns out you can have your flowers and eat them, too.“Eat Your Roses” is a wonderful little book. Author Denise Schreiber covers 52 species of edible flowers that are found in flower, vegetable and herb gardens. The first rule of eating flowers is to be sure that it is an edible flower and that it hasn’t been sprayed with anything toxic.

Edible flowers can be eaten fresh or dried. Every flower in the book has some suggested uses, such as stuffing tulip flowers with chicken salad, sauteing daylily flower buds or deepfrying zucchini flowers. The second part of the book has recipes for appetizers, salads, drinks, syrups, floral butter and desserts such as rose petal ice cream.

Involve The Kids

It is fun to watch kids learn about plants in the garden and how they grow. It is hard for kids to use adult-sized tools, so give them their own set of tools sized just for them. Include some favorite vegetable seeds and a book on gardening

Create a basic gardener’s gift package, and add more items as you find them. Start with a pair of gardening gloves, as gardeners are

always looking for a dry and clean pair. A useful tool is a small brush to clean out under our fingernails or the mud stuck in our boots. Hand lotion, sunscreen and lip balm all help to keep the gardener’s skin looking young.

Feed The Birds

Help your favorite gardener attract pollinators and add a touch of beauty to the garden with a unique bird feeder. The birds attracted by the feeder will do more than bring beauty to the recipient’s garden — they can help cross pollinate plants and flowers, as well.

If you’re crafty, consider making it yourself, or use an online marketplace to find a unique, hand-crafted or vintage treasure. And if your recipient is crafty, consider giving him or her a do-it-yourself feeder or birdhouse kit.

Skip the generic presents and be a bit more thoughtful. For friends and family, there are plenty of ways you can support a new or lifelong yearround gardening habit and love of nature.

Reader reveille

Gifts for the book lover on your list

Avid readers can often be the easiest people to cross off your holiday list, since there are so many products on the market geared to them — both young and old. For instance, conider a set of bookends, such as innovative polyresin bookends (pictured here) designed as two halves of an adorable, curly-tailed gold pig. Giving book accessories removes the concern that a book lover has already read a particular tome you have in mind for their present.

In addition to bookends, here are some of the top gift ideas for book lovers.

E-reader covers and cases

Designers such as Jonathan Adler and Lilly Pulitzer offer their signature designs in protective and stylish covers for Barnes & Noble Inc.’s Nook e-book readers and other devices, adding a sense of fashion to this practical gift.

E-reader stand

Making it easier to read for a long duration, e-reader stands prop up the device for easy use. Stands and their covers come in a range of trendy bright colors, basic black or gray, and in patterned designs.

E-reader sleeves

Your avid reader can slip his or her e-reader device into this padded fabric sleeve, which a growing number of Etsy artisans are crafting in eco-friendly fabrics, as well as fashion-forward patterned designs and monogrammed styles.

Book light

Clipped onto a book or e-reader, this LED light allows for easier reading in dark rooms, such as when a partner or child is sleeping.

Lap desk with a cushioned bottom.

The bottom is cushion, and the top of the lap desk is hard wood or plastic, with a ridged edge to hold a book or magazine in place for easier reading. The lap desk surface also allows the reader to take notes or answer a book’s worksheet questions in a notepad or journal as they work through the latest self-help bestsellers.

Graphic tees

Your reader might like a tee with a favoit (book) quote or a humorous take on a book title or theme. These can be found in catalogs, or online. You can also create a custom bookthemed tee, personalizing your design and

slogan with your recipient’s favorite novel.

Gift card to a bookstore.

Your book-loving friend or family member will get the added thrill of a guilt-free shopping spree while rifling through piles of books, magazines and other bookstore finds. This gift is a favorite of book lovers who love being in a physical bookstore or who have had their eye on a pricy coffee table book or book series.

Gift card to a comic book store

“My husband collects comic books, and I saw that the comics shop had a collection of the rare and valuable ones. I didn’t want to spend $100 on a rare ‘Spiderman,’ not knowing if my husband already owned it, so the gift card let him get the one he’s really wanted for so long,” says gift-giving newlywed Shae Blake.

“He was like a kid in a candy store, so I’m getting him gift cards to the comics shop for future holiday presents.”

Experience: Meeting a favorite author at a booksigning event

Your bookworm would surely love to

meet an author they’re fond of. Surprise the reader on your list with an outing where he or she will get to meet an author, get a personalized, signed book on your dime and get a photo with the author.

When they share the photo with friends and family online, the exciting news becomes a gift that keeps on giving.

And finally, a free gift: a homemade coupon giving your book lover a blissfully quiet afternoon of time to read uninterrupted while you tend to the chores and the kids.

Go beyond the obvious choice for the bookworm in your life.

An apple for the teacher

By Chelle Cordero

Now, more than ever, our teachers deserve our support and acknowledgement of their efforts.

Of course, teachers appreciate the thoughtful gifts their students give them for the holidays. However, what they appreciate the most is knowing that they are appreciated. It doesn’t take a fancy store-bought or handmade gift to let them know how much they’ve changed their students’ lives.

Laurie, a childhood early education teacher who followed her mother’s footsteps into the teaching profession, talks fondly of a childhood memory from when her mom brought home gifts she received. There were always several personal notes painstakingly written by her young students,“Those were the gifts she held onto while many of the others were eaten or packed away.”

Among the more popular gifts teachers often receive just before the holiday are ornaments, coffee mugs with “Favorite Teacher” emblazoned across it, scented candles, picture frames and candy. Laurie said:“I really appreciate the sentiment behind each of these gifts. The joy on a child’s face as he hands me a package that he wrapped by himself really touches me.”

A pick-me-up

Many teachers like to keep some snacks in their desk drawers for those long afternoons of grading papers. One gift idea is a small bucket full of assorted and individually wrapped (mostly) healthy snacks — although a little chocolate is often welcomed, too. Don’t forget to toss in a few small water bottles. If you really want to throw in a coffee mug, fill it with tea bags and single-serve instant coffee packets. A box of chocolates is very nice as well.

For the classroom

With many teachers purchasing classroom items with their own money nowadays, receiving something they could use in their classrooms gives an added boost. These gifts could include cleaning supplies, specialty markers, arts and crafts units, ageappropriate books for a classroom library, colorful index cards and so much more. If you are at a loss as to what to get for the classroom, check out the nonprofit DonorsChoose.org, “where teachers could post classroom project requests, and donors could choose the ones they wanted to support.” A teacher created this project two decades ago when his own classroom

Thoughtful gifts for educators

funding fell seriously short.

Give this site a look and see if the school of your choice is on there. Fundraising opportunities include creative workspaces for students, yoga equipment, audio equipment and, with the recent distance-learning concerns, student tablets and other at-home supplies to keep classes going. All projects are vetted before being publicized.

Thoughtful touches

Other great teacher gift ideas are warm and fuzzy socks, weekly planner books, attachable or retractable pens that won’t roll off a teacher’s desk, a small fleece blanket or shawl for recess time while the teacher supervises her students, desk calendars, a class picture in a photo frame, a hand-sanitizer dispenser and gift cards for a local bookstore, supply shop or favorite restaurant.

The traditional apple for the teacher has

multiple meanings. Some see the apple as a symbol of hard-earned knowledge. Others see it as a sign of sincere gratitude stemming from when teachers were underpaid and served rural farm communities. Either way, brightening your teacher’s day is thoughtful indeed.

Teachers play such a pivotal role in our children’s lives. Yet they’re also notoriously undervalued. So even though a holiday gift isn’t a requirement, it’s a great way to say, “Thanks for all you do!”

Universal gifts

By Kristen Castillo

It seems as if we all have someone on our holiday shopping list who’s hard to shop for or who seems to have everything, forcing us to really put some thought into a gift.

Consider one of these universal gift ideas to wow that person who seems impossible to impress this holiday season

Experiences

These days, the best gifts are about more than giving or receiving a tangible item. “It’s all about experiences,” says Jenn Nicken of The Chef & The Dish, a private one-to-one cooking experience via Skype between consumers and chefs around the world.

The cooking classes, which cost $299, teach home cooks recipes and how to use regional ingredients. Plus, it’s a great way for couples and families to spend time together.

Travel experiences are bigger-ticket items, but they’re in demand, too.

“In this day and age, we don’t want more ‘things.’ We want experiences,” says Gwendolyn Valiente, owner of Napa Valley Wine Tours by Gwendolyn, a company that specializes in private wine tours.“My gift

certificates cost $400 and include a gift bag. The tour is six-plus hours, and the certificate allows the receiver to bring up to three guests.”

The memories linger long after the experiences are over.

Food and Drink

Everyone needs to eat and drink, so order some special snacks and sips.

Specialty drinks, such as different kinds of coffee, are popular presents.

“Over 70 percent of all people drink coffee,” says Jennifer A. Stone of Demours, a micro-lot and auction lot coffee company.

Think about ordering a food subscription service so the gift recipient gets a monthly variety of munchies. There’s a subscription for every type of foodie, including subscriptions for beef jerky, chocolates and desserts, fruit baskets, and spices.

Fun and Games

Gift-giving can be a lot of fun. Add some humor to your holiday by gifting that tough-toshop-for friend, family member or colleague a celebrity-inspired rubber duck.

CelebriDucks’ newest Costume Quackers include such characters as Harry Ponder, The Floating Stones, GooseBusters

Find something for that hard-to-shop-for person

and Spa Wars. Priced at $12.99, the ducks are affordable and entertaining.

“What do you get for the person who has everything?” asks Jason Lautenschleger, owner of Game Night in a Can.“More time with loved ones.”

Family game night is a gift that keeps on giving throughout the year. Game Night in a Can features 30 distinctive party games to get people moving and thinking in new ways. Games include creating a new dance name and letting someone else come up with its corresponding moves; inventing a new animal species for the last spot on Noah’s Ark; and launching a paper airplane competition.

The Entertainer

If the person on your list likes to entertain, pick up a personalized present that will make hosting parties easy and inviting.

Here’s an idea: Preserve Grandma’s favorite recipe as a

display piece. Gracious Bridal Design House’s custom-engraved cheese boards and cutting boards, for example, can be personalized with a cherished family recipe and created using your loved one’s own handwriting. Prices for the bamboo or hardwood boards start at $26.95.

All Wrapped Up

Sure, you could give the recipient a gift card, but what’s the fun in that? Instead, choose a gift that’s a lot more memorable. Whenever possible, find out what the person on your list wants, and if that’s not possible, at least try to figure out what the person doesn’t want. Remember to give the person a gift receipt so if needed, he or she can return or exchange the item.

Give the gift of an experience — for example, a Napa Valley wine tour getaway. Or have some fun with a celebrity-inspired rubber duck.

By Chandra Orr

Last minute

Procrastinators often seek perfection

Some 23 million people hit the stores on Christmas Eve last year, according to the International Council of Shopping Centers. For some, this last-minute gift shopping is a tradition, an annual ritual of braving the mall crowds to be swept up in the holiday frenzy. For many others, though, it’s the stressful byproduct of a to-do list as long as Santa’s and the desire for perfection.

“Many people who procrastinate use it as a mechanism to cope with the anxiety associated with starting or completing any task or decision,” says Dr. Soroya Bacchus, a boardcertified psychiatrist.“What’s curious is that procrastinating in response to anxiety actually creates more anxiety for that person in the long run.”

Last-Minute Crunch

Last-minute shoppers may have a “good” reason to postpone that trip to the mall — i.e. waiting for the sales, looking for the perfect deal online or haven’t decided on a gift yet — but their hesitation likely has more to do with insecurity and perfectionist tendencies.

“They worry about whether or not the person they are shopping for will like the gift they buy or that the recipient will judge them based on how much money they spent,” Bacchus says.“Others have feelings of intense anxiety related to getting everything done for the holidays: the cooking, the cleaning, the dealing with the in-laws. It can be a lot to handle all at once.”

That drive to create the perfect holiday experience translates into the perfect storm of anxiety and stress, Bacchus says. Is this the perfect gift? What if they get me a nicer, more expensive present? What if it goes on sale next week? And why start shopping when the decorating isn’t done?

“Trying to make sure everything is just right will cause you to spend too much time on one item when you have 10 things on your plate, and to-dos like shopping can be pushed to the last minute,” Bacchus says.

Stress Less

Want to avoid the gift-list stress? Stop thinking, and start doing. Forget about getting it perfect. Just get it done. Follow these five steps to get a head start on your holiday shopping.

1. Make a list. Do a bit of brainstorming a few weeks before the shopping season starts. Make a list of those you wish to buy gifts

for, and come up with two or three ideas for each person, ideas you can realistically afford.

“Do this quickly; don’t over-think it; and don’t take a break until you have at least one idea for each person,” says Toni Coleman, licensed psychotherapist and relationship coach.“Let yourself really go with this, writing down anything that occurs to you. Every gift does not have to have the same monetary value -- and avoid even thinking that you ‘should spend’ a certain amount.”

2. Break it down. Make your list more manageable by breaking it down into several shopping trips or Internet sessions. Vow to grab one gift each time you run errands, or start surfing for deals on Black Friday with a resolution to purchase one item online each day until you’re done.

The point is to set aside specific times to tackle that to-do list.

“This helps to get it mapped out in a way that there are minimal trips to the store and time spent searching online or off,” Coleman says.“Put the time you will dedicate to this task on your schedule like any important appointment or event.”

3. Get moving. Give the gift list and schedule some thought — but don’t over-think it. Once you have a few ideas on paper, start taking action. Make a point to make one purchase that day.

“A little bit of planning can help you reach your goals, but a lot of planning and thinking tends to have the opposite effect,” Bacchus explains.“By simply taking action, you are guaranteed to find yourself further down your shopping list than if you had not.”

Plus, you’ll have an instant feeling of accomplishment. Checking off one item on your list will likely feel so good that you’ll want to do it again.

4. Stand firm. Once you’ve made a decision,

don’t second-guess yourself.

“Many procrastinators find themselves struggling with gift ideas and end up shopping at the last minute because they can’t decide on the best gift or keep changing their minds. Once you decide on something, get it,” Bacchus says.

“In the grand scheme of things, a gift is just a gift,” she says.“It’s a gesture of kindness. It is not the end-all of decisions, and chances are the recipient will appreciate the thought more than the actual gift itself.”

5. Make it fun. Gift buying doesn’t have to be a grueling ordeal. Schedule a shopping day with friends or family, and plan a nice lunch or dinner afterward. Having others relying on you to show up will eliminate any urges to postpone, and having something to look forward to will keep your mind off the hassle of long lines and decision-making, Coleman says.

If you must shop alone, reward yourself with your favorite latte or an indulgent snack or a pre-holiday present for yourself.

“When you finish buying gifts for someone else, pick up a little something for yourself as a personal high-five for accomplishing your goals,” Bacchus says.“It may sound selfish, but the prospect of personal gain always incites feelings of motivation.”

Want to beat the last-minute holiday shopping stress? Forget about getting it perfect. Just get it done. Make a list; tackle a little bit at a time; and don’t waffle on decisions.

Your One-Stop Auto Headquarters Over 100 High Quality Used Vehicles in Stock! 10 Bay Service Facility! Buy With Confidence!

A letter to our community, Thanks to our loyal friends and customers. D&P has been voted Best Used Car Dealership over & over again and it’s that time of year again!

Bethpage Best of Long Island Voting has begun and will be open until Dec. 15th. I kindly ask you to help us out once again and cast your vote for us once a day for each email address you register. We can’t do it without ALL of YOU. So, I am asking if you had a positive experience here at D&P, you cast your vote and spread the word to family & friends to do the same!!!

Click on Automotive, then Used Car Dealership and then D&P!!! Thank you for your support for the last 45 years!

Everything is increasing in price, groceries, rent and insurance. Given the current state of the economy, it doesn’t seem to make sense to invest in a brand new vehicle nor is it even affordable to lease/rent one anymore. Now more than ever it makes more sense to buy a High Quality, Late Model, Low Mileage Pre-Owned vehicle that has been Hand Picked and through our Extensive Service Package and Warrantied to replace one of yours. For Thousands Less than new you can take home a like new vehicle that has great value with a fraction of the depreciation. As well as they come complete with: 4 New Tires All New Brakes & Rotors, Tune up, Oil Change, Wipers & Much Much More, Including Free Oil Changes for later and D&P backed warranty I deliver a vehicle to you in the condition that I would want one delivered to Me. That’s the Truth- Just ask any one of my long time customers, the ones that keep voting us Bethpage Best Of Long Island even through tough times that should stand for something.

Lastly, I am looking to expand our service dept. to better serve your needs and need your help. Do you know anyone that is a well experienced ‘A’ mechanic? Maybe looking for a new job or higher salary then they are currently making? Well, D&P is looking to fill that position and salary is wide open for the right person who is experienced, reliable, detail oriented and wants to be part of a family atmosphere. Please help spread the word. I hope you will come in to D&P and let me find a Great Car for you.