By Nancy Hoover
If you are anything like my mom, you still have no idea what to cook for Christmas dinner, let alone how you plan to entertain your friends and family visiting from out of town for the holiday. With only three days left until Christmas, I imagine the panic has set in, and you have trouble sleeping at night, mentally checking items off your to-do list, all while lying awake in bed. We’ve all been there, however, now is not the time to panic! It’s the time to forge ahead and develop a schedule of meals to and activities for your family, and we are here to help!
Christmas Dinner Ideas
Lucky for you, our monthly Paso Pairings blogger Tina Swithin has written a great arsenal of delicious food and wine pairing recommendations from our vast repertoire of local chefs, restaurateurs and winemakers. I suggest the Filet Mignon topped with a Violeta Port and Blue Cheese Reduction sauce for a hearty Christmas dinner. Or try a traditional New Orleans approach for dinner with Clayhouse Winery’s hearty Duck and Andouille Sausage Gumbo. This gumbo recipe is spicy and delicious, certain to keep you warm and cozy all over. For an appetizer or first course option try the sweet tasting Cass Winery Crab Cakes or the cheesy goodness of Artisan’s Fondue. Couple these recipes with the recommended wine pairings and you will be ready to set the table and enjoy a terrific meal as if you were in one of Paso’s delicious restaurants, all in the comfort of your own home.
Holiday Activities
For family friendly group activities I recommend a trip to Hearst Castle. Be sure to build time into your schedule for a stop-over at the San Simeon State Beach so the little ones can watch the elephant seals and their babies from the vista point. Hearst Castle is a Central Coast treasure that offers daily tours to visitors. Your family will surely enjoy the spectacular grounds and architecture as they learn about the history of the castle and its mogul, William Randolph Hearst. Other great activities include a trip to Carnegie Library, located in the middle of Paso Robles charming downtown city park, a visit to Studios on the Park to take art classes or observe local artists work (click here for holiday art classes), and a trip to the Paso Robles Children’s Museum, complete with an antique fire truck, puppet stage and art exhibits to keep the little ones entertained. And of course, for adult entertainment, there is always a prized Paso Robles winery, wine bar or brewery to be explored!
I hope these recommendations for food, wine and family activities will give you some delicious and care free entertaining ideas during this holiday season!! After all, the holidays are all about food, family and fun!! Cheers to a great holiday celebration!
Click here for more Paso Robles attractions to explore during your holiday.
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