The Christmas tree is up at our house but there's a distinct lack of goodies underneath. It wouldn't be the same without that last-minute shopping rush - it's all part of the fun of the festive season. Plus, there are usually a few home-made goodies to be prepared during the last week or so. My aioli and crostini are always requested by one aunt and shortbread by another. If you're looking for that special gift, here are some tasty ideas that are also great to take on holiday or to use while entertaining friends.
Who doesn't like fudge? Many pots of fudge have been made in our home. From the school fairs where we churned it out year after year and packaged it up in cellophane bags, to last-minute gifts for grandparents and aunts. Chocolate fudge is great but this Russian fudge with nuts is so much better. Don't be distracted while making it as it can burn in a matter of seconds. And beware of timing. I find if I make this too early it gets eaten and I have to make more.
Make this pomegranate dressing now ready for Christmas. Pour into decorative bottles with a simple ribbon to make into a special gift. It's delicious over chicken, couscous, or even icecream. High in vitamin C, this pretty fruit is easy to deal with and is great sprinkled over a salad and fabulous with cheese. Cut in half like an orange and squeeze the pips and juice into a bowl. One fruit will yield approximately one cup of pips and juice.
With fresh herbs, pesto is one of the easiest things to make. My basil is not quite prolific yet but there is plenty of parsley. Add almonds for a change from the traditional pine nuts. Just a couple of other ingredients all whizzed together and it's made in a matter of minutes. Grissini are also easy to make and go well with a gift like pesto. I've used two of my favourite flavours, fennel and smoked paprika, but you could also use herbs, cheese, olives or sundried tomatoes.
Recipes:
