By Gregory Fast, Entertaining Expert | Photos by Lisa Marie Photography
As we welcome the new year, it’s the perfect time to refresh not just our lifestyles but also the way we gather and entertain at home. After the indulgence of the holiday season, hosting can be an opportunity to combine style, enjoyment, and a health-conscious approach. I recommend embracing the concept of Healthy Hosting – where thoughtful tips, delicious recipes, and creative ideas come together to create gatherings that are as mindful as they are memorable.
Sustainable Hosting: A Stylish Start
Sustainability sets the tone for mindful entertaining, showing care not only for your guests but also for the planet – something I continue to focus on when hosting any occasion.
Your invitation is your first touchpoint for guests – it sets the tone for your upcoming occasion and is not something to be overlooked. Opt for digital invites to reduce paper waste. Platforms like Paperless Post or Evite allow you to personalize your invitations without leaving an ecological footprint. Bonus: responses can be tracked in real time.
Breathe new life into your home by upcycling existing decor items or sourcing vintage pieces. A well-loved table runner, paired with mismatched heirloom candle holders, creates charm while keeping things sustainable.
Ditch disposables and skip single-use plastics – use real dishes and glassware to elevate your tablescape. It’s about prioritizing beauty and care over convenience. For larger or more formal occasions, rental dishware is a great way to elevate a look or experience while being mindful of your footprint. Check out SpecialEvents.ca.
Food & Beverage
Food and beverage are a key component when hosting any occasion. I love resetting the year by focusing on daytime events, to keep our evening schedules light and restful. Opt for hosting a lunch visit with friends or family, and keep energy levels high by including quality ingredients.
Fresh Vietnamese spring rolls are a favourite in our home; they can be filled with so many great ingredients that display beautifully through the translucent rice paper. These rolls make a great appetizer; or opt to use them as a main course alongside veggie-packed quinoa salad or a spicy soup. Pair with a refreshing zero-proof cocktail, and guests will feel energized and rejuvenated.
Beet & Tempeh Rainbow Rolls
This plant-based recipe celebrates winter root vegetables and rich flavours; it’s perfect for health-focused hosting.
Ingredients (Makes 8 rolls):
- 1 block (8 oz) tempeh, sliced into strips
- 2 tbsp tamari (or soy sauce)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 golden beet, julienned
- 1 small red beet, julienned
- 1 cup shredded kale or spinach
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 1 small green apple, julienned
- Fresh mint and parsley leaves
- 8 rice paper wrappers
- Optional garnish: crushed roasted peanuts
Instructions:
- Prepare the tempeh: Marinate the tempeh strips in a mix of tamari and maple syrup for 10 minutes. Pan-fry over medium heat until golden on both sides. Set aside.
- Set Up Your Rolling Station: Soften a rice paper sheet in warm water and place it on a damp towel.
- Assemble the Roll: Begin with parsley and mint leaves for a fresh base. Add a mix of golden and red beet juliennes, kale, carrot, and green apple for vibrant colour and crunch. Top with a couple of tempeh strips.
- Roll It Up: Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly. Garnish with crushed peanuts for a nutty finish.
- Serve: Pair with Miso-Tahini Dipping Sauce (recipe below).
Miso-Tahini Dipping Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp white miso paste
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp water (or more for desired consistency)
- 1 tsp maple syrup
Whisk all ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
Cucumber & Mint Spritzer
A refreshing, alcohol-free beverage that delights the palate, perfect to batch-make and serve over ice.
Ingredients:
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 handful fresh mint leaves
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 litre sparkling water
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle cucumber slices and mint leaves in a pitcher until fragrant.
- Add lime juice and stir well.
- Pour in the sparkling water and stir gently to combine.
- Serve over ice in tall glasses, garnished with a cucumber slice and a mint sprig.
Mindful Hosting Tips: Experiences that Nourish
Great hosting extends beyond food and drink – it’s about creating moments of joy and connection. If you are hosting a larger group and looking for some activities, consider some of these.
DIY Aromatherapy Station: Set up a table with small bottles, carrier oils (like jojoba or almond), and a selection of essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, and citrus blends. Guests can create personalized blends to take home – a thoughtful favour they’ll treasure and enjoy.
Interactive Dining: Encourage guests to get involved in making a meal together: prepare ingredients only so far and work with friends and family to bring it to the finish line. There is something humble about working together and enjoying the company.
As we embark on a new year, hosting with health and mindfulness in mind sends a powerful message to those you gather: that they are valued, and that creating a better world starts with small but impactful actions. By blending thoughtful recipes, engaging activities, and sustainable practices, your event can be a celebration that leaves everyone feeling their best – inside and out.
