With the festive season in full swing, cozy gatherings are likely to be at the top of your mind. Whether you're planning a large get-together with lots of guests or a more intimate celebration, this is a great time to enjoy good food and company.

Rachael Ray recently shared an inside look at her holiday routine, thanks to a partnership with A+E Networks to create "Rachel Ray's Holidays," a six-episode series in which she prepares recipes for gatherings with family and friends. The series premiered on Sunday, December 8, and featured delicious dishes such as Dirty Martini Shrimp, Lasagna, and Grilled Garlic Prime Rib.

In an exclusive interview with Eating wellRay told us that her favorite part of creating the series was the opportunity to take an in-depth look at her holiday experience. "Viewers of all ages are tuning in to get authentic versions of my holiday recipes and a window into my everyday life experiences and kitchen," she says. A year that is used for unity and gathering around the table.

Everyone has their own traditions when it comes to creating the perfect holiday spread. What are you looking for? Warm casseroles Or Sweet dessertsEstablishing your signature dishes for seasonal gatherings gives everyone something to look forward to each year. "My family always wants lasagna or pasta and some kind of prime rib or tenderloin for Christmas, so it's kind of a food tradition for us," Ray says. "But John and I love seafood during the holidays so dishes like my lobster fra diavolo."

When it comes to baking, she readily admits it's not her area of ​​expertise, “I'm not a baker but my sister Maria just made a recipe for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake with Lemon Staple Gin Sauce that I'm excited to try this holiday season. "Our recipe for Lemon-Blueberry Cheesecake Bars It makes a great option if you're looking for something similar!

When asked about her top tips for hosting, Ray believes simplicity is your best bet. Keep it simple and plan so you can get most of your prep and cooking done before your guests arrive," she advises. Ray also emphasized the importance of connecting with your loved ones in the kitchen, saying: "The time of year No matter what, food for me is about connection. Have fun with friends and family!”

During the busy holiday season, it's certainly easy to get overwhelmed with it Planning and preparationBut when it comes down to it, the most important thing is to enjoy the time spent celebrating with family and friends. For Ray, “It means connecting with others and coming together to celebrate what we are thankful for. It means giving. It means paying it forward.” No matter how you choose to celebrate this year, we hope you can do it with the ones you love most!