[Zeno]

Instead of a huge heap of the mashed potatoes, try a smaller portion of yams or sweet potatoes, roasted. A good tasting yam only needs butter/pepper or other seasoning to taste.

For the green beans, get them fresh and split them (French style?) and add some chopped onions to the sauté, use less garlic.


Also for an extra side, if yams etc are out, try baked apples. I don't have any 'recipe' off hand but simple butter and first-rate cinnamon should do the trick. The apples add much to the festive fare and are great in just a small portion and add a different flavor to the meal.

Also, have a plate of different cheeses before or after dinner for light munching and to add to the wine you are using.


I Hope you are having a great time with the family.

-Zeno