Holiday seasons can be fun and oftentimes a bit stressful, especially when it comes to preparing celebration feasts.  If lack of time or a shrinking household is an issue, consider making a few changes to pare down this year’s festive meals. For example, many supermarkets offer ready-made dinners, complete with cooked entrees (like whole turkey, ham or prime rib), traditional accompaniments and even dessert.  All that’s required is a quick warming in the oven or microwave and a delicious holiday dinner is ready to serve.  For those who want to cook a little something from scratch, there are still plenty of ways to lighten the workload.  For example, roast a turkey breast instead of the whole bird.  Serve side dishes that can be prepared in advance of the big day.  Because of the hardy nature of our favorite grain, many barley-based sides can be prepared ahead of time to cut down on last-minute prepping.  Check out this tasty side for starters.  Here’s to a delicious and stress-free holiday season!   

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