PUBLICATION W1330C

Planning a Holiday Meal

Publish Date: July 15 2025 |  Language: English

DOI: doi.org/10.7290/UTIAPub/W1330C

View PDF

If you have questions about this resource, contact your county Extension office.

Summary

Plan a holiday meal with less stress and better food safety by starting two weeks early. Use a simple menu framework to estimate portions, organize recipes, and coordinate dishes with guests to save money and reduce waste. Shop smart by keeping cold foods cold and checking packaging. Store foods safely to prevent cross-contamination, and thaw turkey the right way using the refrigerator, cold water bath, or microwave methods.