Last Minute Gifts
Because we all wait until the very last minute
It doesn’t matter that the stores have been playing “All I Want for Christmas is You” since Halloween. It doesn’t matter that you’ve been getting texts from everywhere you’ve ever shopped and credit card offers from Bloomingdale’s. You — like everyone else that doesn’t live inside a Hallmark movie — still have some holiday shopping to do.
Not to worry, because there are still some great gifts you can get right now or have delivered in time for Christmas.
Savory Plant Based Broths For the Person Who Loves Comfort
Winter is coming. If you’re looking to provide some comfort, these Mala Girl broths are a perfect gift. These plant-based broths are gluten and soy-free and are a delicious alternative to hot cocoa or tea when you want an afternoon or evening “something”. The original tastes exactly like those Lipton soups you loved as a kid — but with better-for-you ingredients. They also serve double duty as seasoning for stews, stir fry, and chili. Give the variety pack as a gift, or break up the set for stocking stuffers. Available on Amazon for $14.99.
For years, I railed against the electric corkscrew, thinking true wine enthusiasts have to suffer to enjoy their wine. Then, someone gave me an electric corkscrew as a Secret Santa gift. I went home, secretly ashamed, and tried it. My life was changed forever. There are more expensive electric corkscrews, but why spend the money? This Target model is under $20 — pair it with a bottle of wine and you’re the best gifter of the season.
If I could have one wish from Santa, I’d ask for this adorable set of “Deli Favorites” plates from West Elm. There’s a bagel, a black and white cookie, a pastrami sandwich, and more. They’re broken up into sets of four “sweet” and four “savory” plates or get all eight. Available for $60 each set of four at West Elm.
A Cocktail Shaker That’s Easy to Use
Here’s another gadget that every home should have. A cocktail shaker — but make it easy. Once again, I had the usual Boston shaker — the ones that bartenders use that you need to give a good tap to separate, then use a bar strainer. That’s all well and good, but when you’re making lemon martinis for your friends and the shaker parts refuse to pry apart, you just want something more friendly. That’s why I got a shaker with a silicone gasket: it keeps the liquid in when you’re shaking and it’s easy to take the lid off when you’re ready to pour. This one has a built in jigger for measuring and a strainer. Available on Amazon for $13.99.
I use olive oil every single day of my life, and that’s not an exaggeration. A few times, I’ve been gifted olive oil and I was elated! Why? Because it’s something I both need and enjoy. The same goes for some good vinegar or spices. II’ve said time and time again — please get me olive oil for a gift! t’s super easy to either order some or just stop by your nearest good grocer and pick up a bottle. If your recipient loves food, they will be appreciative. I’ve enjoyed Heraclea’s EVOO in the past. It’s a well-priced bottle with a nice slightly-arugula-like finish. Available on Amazon for $23.99.