If your home is anything like ours, your kitchen, dining room, and living room resemble Grand Central Station with family and friends coming and going throughout the holiday season. Instead of trying to cook through all the chaos, prepare some go-to appetizers and hors d'oeuvres ahead of time that can be quickly finished by cooking in the oven or on the stovetop when folks arrive for a visit. Listen to the interview audio for great pointers from America's Test Kitchen's Bridget Lancaster on party prep that will save time and stress.

Bridget's suggested recipes:

For more great make-ahead recipes, check out The Complete Make Ahead Cookbook by America's Test Kitchen. Not sure who is stopping by for your holiday party? Find a wonderful multi-course menu for vegetarians (and omnivores) here: Holiday Party Vegetarian Menu from America's Test Kitchen.