With all the hustling and bustling around Christmas, there’s something cathartic about stoping to take the time to cook a meal or a holiday dish for loved ones. This is the time of year to really be present in the moment; present with friends and family, and present with the wonder of the season.
Nicole Cross, of Pinch My Salt, welcomed Enrique and I to her home this past week while she made the perfect treat for Christmas morning: orange and cranberry scones. Just watching her make her Christmas Morning Scones (that’s what I’m calling them, but you could happily eat them anytime) is actually pretty relaxing in itself!
I appreciate Nicole’s nonchalant approach to cooking; she keeps attention to detail without a lot of fuss. If something isn’t perfect, it’s okay. She often prefers using her hands over gadgets, and simplifies the process wherever she can. Why make it harder than it needs to be, right?
Watch Nicole make these effortless scones and get the recipe here. Special thanks to her awesome husband Phil for taking some behind-the-scenes photos of the shoot and making delicious coffee.
Tips for Staying Present While Cooking for the Holidays
As you prepare your holiday meals this week, clear your space of dirty dishes and take a few breaths before you begin. Take advantage of the precious hours of making dinner, breakfast and everything in between. Use the time to be grateful for this magical season.
Then, as you breath in the sweet and savory scents of Christmas meals, place your thoughts on the celebration of this special week, versus the drama or the stress that so often comes with the holidays. As you’re icing cookies or gingerbread houses, setting the turkey or tamales on the table, or putting the final touches on your meal, think about the love you get to share with others. This is a time that brings tidings of comfort and joy, after all!
Merry Christmas!
In midst of all this, a girl has gotta eat, right? Alisa is loves chatting with chefs behind the scenes and exploring the rich food culture of the Central Valley.
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Great post, Alisa! Thanks so much for coming over and sharing these with us. The video turned out great!