Turkey Time

We are only days away from one of the biggest food frenzies our nation has grown to know and love.

In order to reduce your stress before this big event, I have some professional tips to get you through the day flawlessly.

First off, decide on a menu and stick with it. Even if your mother-in-law thinks you should try a great new recipe she saw on TV, keep to the menu you have in mind.

Secondly, keep it simple. Thanksgiving is not the right time to test out a complicated recipe you have never made before. Eliminate appetizers! I know that might sound crazy, but appetizers tend to be much more labor intesive than sticking a turkey in the oven. Do not forget, the turkey is the star of the day and if you fill your guests up with appetizers, they will not be eating very much of anything else.

Accept help when it is offered. It sounds so simple to do but we tend to have a difficult time letting others into our kitchen to help. Even if it's as little as letting someone peel some vegetables or stir the soup, let them help! Set your table a few days before and cover it with a sheet or other table cloth to keep the dust off. Take out your platters, serving dishes, gravy boat and serving utensils. The last thing you need to worry about as you handle a 16-pound turkey is getting your china out and silverware polished.

Keep the drinks simple, some club soda, sliced fresh lemons, limes and oranges with some mint in a pitcher is refreshing and visually pleasing. It also helps cleanse the pallet and invigorate the taste buds. Choose one type of white wine and one type of red wine and buy a few bottles of each. With turkey a Savignon Blanc or Pinot Noir should pair well.

Set up your dessert station in a different room, such as den or living room. After hours of cooking and eating it is nice to change the atmosphere. Set up your coffee maker, cups, dessert plates and napkins the day before.

Finally, step away from the mess in your kitchen and sit down with your guests to enjoy some quality time. Now you can really be thankful!

Garden City resident chef Sophia Benito-Brivio owns The Well Seasoned Chef.