It’s finally the season of big holiday feasts. You’ve been designated as the host this year, and that’s a big responsibility. Is your kitchen up to the task?
You need plenty of space, all of the right appliances, and more storage than you think. You’re cooking one of the most important meals of the year, after all. Don’t worry; we’re here to offer some sage advice and kitchen wisdom.
Whether you’re this year’s chef or you’re plotting for next year, read on to learn how to optimize your kitchen for holiday cooking.
Kitchen Layout and Workflow
The holidays are upon us, and with them comes the joy (and hectic fun) of cooking for loved ones. Optimizing your kitchen layout and workflow is essential if you want to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable cooking experience. The last thing you want is more stress during the holidays, right? Make the layout of your kitchen work for you.
If you’re due for a kitchen renovation, now is the time to consider how you’d like to be able to navigate your space. Would it be better if the sink was farther from the stove? Do you wish the trip from the fridge to the oven was less lengthy? Note those findings and share them with a qualified renovation company so you can get the kitchen of your holiday-hosting dreams.
In the meantime, you can consider layout changes that are within your control. Clear clutter by removing unnecessary items so you can free up counter and storage space. Reorganize your kitchen by grouping similar items together, such as baking supplies, and designate zones for cooking, prep and cleanup. This will streamline your workflow and make cooking more efficient, especially if you’ll have other people helping you out for the big meal.
Making the Most of Your Surface Area
Speaking of your layout, do you ever feel like you don’t have enough room to do all of your cooking? Sure, normal meals are doable, but what about vast holiday meals? Do you have enough space for your holiday feast? Do you have room for multiple people to work together in the kitchen?
Again, if you’re nearing a kitchen renovation, consider ways in which you can add more surface space. We always recommend kitchen islands. Not only do they add more storage (more on that later), but they also provide several extra feet of counter space and a nice spot to sit and eat in the kitchen if you pair the island with some stools.
While you wait for your new kitchen island, make sure to tuck away any unnecessary appliances. If you’re not using it for the big holiday meal, set it aside so as to not waste precious room. You can also get a rolling kitchen island for temporary space until you’re ready to upgrade to a more permanent option.
Essential Tools and Appliances
If you don’t have a well-equipped kitchen, you’re not ready to be a holiday host unless you’re willing to get incredibly creative. Before you volunteer, make sure you have everything you need.
Ensure you have quality cookware, including pots, pans, and utensils for a crowd. Make sure your oven, stove, and other appliances are all up to the task. This might be the year to invest in a new oven or refrigerator. Consider investing in specialty items like stand mixers, slow cookers, and immersion blenders. These appliances will help you prepare complex dishes with ease.
Plenty of Kitchen Storage
Effective storage solutions are crucial during the holiday season. Prior to the big day, you need space to store all of your ingredients. You also need space for all of the plates and cooking tools so they won’t be out in the open while you’re trying to cook.
If you’re planning ahead for next year, now is the time to assess your storage and decide if you need more of it. It may be time to add a few more cabinets and drawers, incorporate a pantry, or, as we mentioned before, add a kitchen island with built-in storage. You should also consider wall and ceiling racks to save space if you’re working with a small kitchen.
When it comes to working with what you have currently, organize your pantry by labeling and categorizing food storage. Install a spice rack to keep spices accessible and use drawer dividers to organize utensils and kitchen gadgets. This will save time and reduce stress.
Ample Lighting
Is your dim and dark kitchen killing your holiday spirit? Make sure your kitchen has more than enough lighting to create a festive holiday atmosphere and so you can see what you’re doing.
If you’re renovating your kitchen, this is a good time to consider adding more overhead lighting. Consider extra lighting as well, like under-cabinet lighting. These lights are subtle, but they really brighten up a room without any big or bulky lights taking up space.
Cleaning and Maintenance
You can’t have guests over if you have a dirty kitchen! And you certainly can’t cook in a dirty kitchen. Deep clean your oven, stove and refrigerator before the holiday rush. Regularly sanitize any preparation surfaces to prevent cross-contamination, especially if anyone at your holiday dinner has food sensitivities.
It’s always a good idea to plan ahead and choose floors and countertops that are easy to clean. For example, quartz countertops look stunning, and because they’re non porous, they’re incredibly easy to clean even during a busy dinner prep session. If you’re the family’s main cook, consider ease of cleaning and maintenance when you’re renovating your kitchen.
Get Your Kitchen Holiday-Ready
If you love hosting for the holidays, you deserve a kitchen that’s up to the task. Whether you’re doing what you can with your current kitchen or you’re planning your big renovation for next year’s holiday season, these tips can help you get holiday-ready.
If you’re ready for a kitchen renovation, LA Carpets is here for you. Don’t let the name fool you, we offer more than just carpets! Reach out for a free estimate today.
