Do-Ahead Timeline

This timeline shows you how far in advance food preparation for the menu can take place. Following these tips allows maximum time with your guests and minimum fuss.

• Prepare Red Waldorf Cake layers. Cool completely. Wrap well and freeze.

• Thaw Waldorf Cake layers.
• Prepare creamy frosting and frost cake. Cover and refrigerate.

• Toast mustard seeds for brussels sprouts. Add pepper and salt, store in an airtight container.
• Peel and cut potatoes for Oven-Browned Potatoes. Cover with water and refrigerate.
• Prepare Mushroom Medley through step 4. Cover and refrigerate.

• Tie beef and prepare for roasting.
• Prepare lemon-gingered shrimp. Cover and refrigerate.

• Brine brussels sprouts, let stand 1 hour, then drain.
• Bring potatoes to room temperature.
• Bring cake to room temperature.

• Roast beef in 350-degree oven.
• Cook potatoes in boiling water; continue to follow directions for adding to roasting pan with beef.
• Bring Mushroom Medley to room temperature.

• Cook brussels sprouts in 350-degree oven.
• Drain shrimp and put on platter.

• Place Mushroom Medley in oven.