Oh, how I love this time of year!

Halloween is over and it’s time to start thinking HOLIDAY MEALS!

I look forward to this with great anticipation all year long.

When I think of my holiday meals, I first think about the centerpiece of the meal.

My personal go-to centerpieces are a gorgeous Chateaubriand or a prime rib roast (oh the beef!) and a spiral-sliced ham. My family loves them all.

At holiday time especially, presentation is so very important. And these main course centerpieces make quite an impression.

And, of course, they TASTE delicious! You just have to decide which taste to go with.

That’s the fun part! Good thing is, holiday time brings lots of visitors and lots of mealtimes. You really can serve them all over the next couple of months!

It’s time to start thinking of fun things to serve on the most patriotic of holidays – the 4th of July!

Try these USA-inspired meal ideas and whoop it up this Independence Day!

BLEU CHEESE BURGERS

Color is of utmost importance with your 4th of July presentation. So try some colorful burgers with white onion, ketchup/tomato and a sprinkle of bleu cheese. You may have to hunt to see the blue – but, hey, that’s half the fun!

LAYERED PATRIOTIC DRINKS

For a fun red, white and blue-colored drink, start with ice cubes that will appear white, pour cranberry juice on the bottom of a clear glass or cup, then add blue G2 Gatorade on top. You’ll have patriotism in a glass!

DELICIOUS FLAG CAKE

Chef Ina Garten’s gorgeous flag cake (seen above) features all of the beautiful colors of the American flag. What better way to show your appreciation for our country? Click here to see the recipe and ingredient list for this beauty.

Then, have fun coming up with your own ideas using the red, white and blue theme. Get the kids involved, too. It’s more fun that way! Happy almost 4th, everybody!

Photo courtesy of FoodNetwork.com.

There once was a gal who procrastinated.

And – poof! – a holiday snuck up on her.

I’m not saying WHO that someone might be, BUT if she sounds familiar to YOU, here are some great last-minute meal ideas for Easter from our friends at Heavy.com.

Seriously. It’s this Sunday.

Try out this amazing recipe for Beef Stew with Leeks. Easy, tasty and hello leftovers!

I love serving beef on holidays. It’s so satisfying.

Click here for a great rundown of fab Easter Feasts to satisfy the bunnies at your house.

My house? Oh, I’ve got it covered. **Wink, wink.**

Photo courtesy of Christopher Hirsheimer via epicurious.com.