Last Minute Holiday Food Gifts

By Leda Meredith, About.com Guide

(Continued from Page 1)

11. Moroccan-style Preserved Lemons

Leda Meredith

Preserved lemons are a classic ingredient in tagines and other Moroccan-style dishes. They are also delicious simply slivered and added to grain or pasta salads. For a subtle variation on the flavor of these lemons, try using Meyer lemons in the recipe.

12. Raw Cranberry Relish Recipe

This colorful, tangy relish is fantastic alongside holiday side dishes, and a refreshing change from the usual cooked cranberry sauce. The orange is a classic flavor pairing with cranberry, and the apple adds a nice crunchy texture contrast.

13. Tawny Port and Pear Butter

This is pear butter for grown-ups. It has a silky texture and rich, complex flavor. Because it is cooked in a slow cooker you don't need to spend much time in the kitchen to make this recipe.

14. Pear and Butternut Squash Preserves

Leda Meredith

A lightly sweet, spiced pear and butternut squash preserve that makes a perfect holiday gift. Lovely served alongside roasted meats or root vegetables.

15. Maple Triple Applesauce

This recipe combines fresh and dried apples, apple cider and a touch of pure maple syrup. The triple dose of apple ingredients gives it an intense fruit flavor. And because it is mostly made in a slow cooker, it takes very little active time in the kitchen.

16. Quick Refrigerator Dill Pickles

These cucumber pickles have a classic deli dill flavor and crunch. They are ready to eat in just a few days, but if you can manage to wait a week or two they will be even better.

17. 24-Hour Spiced Cauliflower Pickle

Leda Meredith

Tangy but not too sour, flavorful without being overly spiced, this cauliflower pickle is a party favorite. It is especially attractive if you make it with Romanesco cauliflower, but equally good made with regular white cauliflower.