Christmas Meal

Style Idea

To prepare the dining room for holiday dinners and parties, just add a few seasonal items. Hang a wreath in a window or in front of a mirror. Instead of using flowers for a centerpiece, consider decorations such as these elegant trees and beaded red balls, which will last the entire season. And don’t forget the candles; everyone looks better in candlelight.

BEET AND GOAT CHEESE TART

Makes 8 to 10 servings

1 pound small beets, peeled
4 ounces goat cheese, softened
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons butter, softened
¼ cup chopped fresh mint
½ teaspoon kosher salt, divided
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
½ (17.3 ounce) package frozen puff pastry, thawed
Garnish: fresh mint leaves

1. Preheat oven to 350›. Using a mandolin or very sharp knife, cut beets into very thin slices. In the work bowl of a food processor, combine goat cheese, cream cheese, butter, mint, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Process until mixture is smooth.

2. Spray a baking