The countdown to Christmas is on – and with it comes the joyful chaos of festive cooking. In the UK, festive food prep stress is often fuelled by time pressure, limited space, high expectations and the pressure to deliver a flawless meal on the big day.
To help home cooks stay calm, organised and even enjoy the process, Zyliss, the cleverly Swiss brand has partnered with award-winning chef and author Jo Pratt, share a series of smart, time-saving kitchen hacks. From make-ahead magic to waste-busting leftovers and showstopping desserts, Jo’s ideas are designed to add ease and flair to the festivities.
Garnish like a pro
Zesty citrus twists are a brilliantly simple way to make any dish feel instantly festive. Using a 2-in-1 zester, slice decorative strips of zest, twist them around a chopstick and hold to shape. They can be made in advance, kept chilled or dried and stored in a jar. Sprinkle over festive cakes, add to cheeseboards or perch on drinks for effortless decorative sparkle.
Make essential condiments ahead
Classic bread sauce is Jo’s ultimate prep-ahead side. She makes hers in advance, freezes it just before adding the butter and cream, then finishes it on the day. It saves hob space, deepens the flavour and removes last-minute stress, a smart move when everything’s happening at once.
Elevated the leftovers
Leftover red cabbage finds new life in a zingy Boxing Day slaw. Jo stirs through grated carrot, chopped parsley, crème fraîche or yoghurt and a splash of red wine vinegar for a dish that’s light, colourful and full of contrast. Perfect alongside cold cuts, veggie pies or toasties.
Time-saving canapés
For simple but stylish canapés, slice apple, cucumber and radish into textured rounds using Zyliss’s crinkle knife to instantly add visual appeal to your presentation with no extra effort required. Thread them onto cocktail sticks with smoked salmon or turkey for impressive-looking bites that are quick to assemble. These vibrant, gluten-free starters are a smart alternative to more time-consuming, traditional starters.
Giftable cost effective goodies
Caramelised nuts are Jo’s go-to for handmade, thoughtful gifts. She toasts walnuts or pecans in a pan, adds honey, butter and smoked paprika, then tosses until glossy. Once cool, they’re packed into jars or cellophane bags with ribbon. Ideal for festive snacking, cheeseboards or topping salads.
Easiest side you’ve never tried
Skip the last-minute roasties and prep crisp, golden rosti-style potato stacks instead. Parboil, grate and mix with butter and sage, then press into a muffin tin and chill for up to four days. Bake on the day until golden and serve straight from the oven – minimal effort, maximum reward.
Simplest way to make dessert look stylish
Finish your festive feast with elevated touch. Jo turns ginger puddings or sticky toffee onto a platter, dusts with edible gold and tops with a citrus curl. Add a jug of cream liqueur or custard and a few candles, and dessert becomes an event – no extra stress required.
Jo says: “Christmas isn’t about cutting corners, it’s about clever choices. A few things made in advance, some simple garnishes, and the right tools can make all the difference. It’s about enjoying the process, not rushing through it.”
Heidi Thomas, Head of Marketing at DK Household Brands, which includes Zyliss, adds: “Jo’s tips celebrate exactly what Zyliss is all about – joy, ease and clever innovation in the kitchen. Whether it’s elevating leftovers or prepping party dishes with finesse, our tools like the Gourmet Drum Grater, Easy Pull Food Processor, Apple Corer, 2-in1 Zester and Crinkle Knife are designed to help people enjoy every moment of festive cooking, with a little less stress and a lot more satisfaction.”
For more festive inspiration and smart tips from Jo Pratt, follow @zylissofficial on Instagram or visit zyliss.co.uk.
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