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We all need a helping hand to stay on track amidst the indulgences the holidays bring. Grab these better-for-you options that make it simple to squeeze in the good stuff too. From locally-made, nutrient-rich broths to wholesome, veggie-based meal solutions, it's never been easier to make the "nice" list for foodies.

These sweets are truly special, and not just because they're only available seasonally. From a fabulous new Pandora cake that's ethereally light and packaged beautifully to a decadent imported Italian pistachio cream that you'll want to spread on everything, these goodies are great for gifting and even better for treating yourself to a taste of the holidays.

Our experts have rounded up this year's top bottles for gifting. Share them with friends and loved ones, give one to your holiday party host, or just treat yourself to something exceptional. There are even fun stuffing stockers like bottled craft cocktails on this list!

Fritters are one of our go-to winter apps -- especially now, with root veggies. Here's how: grate vegetables (try carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes). Add cheese and herbs of your choice. Season with salt, pepper and spices (we like curry powder, cumin, or chili powder for a kick). Combine ingredients in a bowl, using a whisked egg and flour to thicken the batter. Bake or pan fry the fritters in oil until crispy, then serve with dipping sauce of your choice.

Paella is a show-stopping dish that is surprisingly simple to master. Give it a try using this basic method that can easily be scaled up for a paella party. The basic ratios to set yourself up for success is 1 cup of paella rice, 2 cups of stock and 2/3 cups of tomato puree or sofrito. Heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat in a 14''-16'' paella, steel, or cast-iron pan. If using seafood, sauté in pan until about half cooked; set aside. If using vegetables, par-cook and set aside. Add 2 cloves minced garlic to the pan along with more olive oil, if needed. Sauté 1 minute, then stir in 1/4 tsp crushed saffron and 1 tsp smoked paprika. Add 1 c paella rice and stir until translucent, about 1 minute. Add 2/3 c tomato puree or sofrito and sauté for 1 minute, then pour in 2 c warm stock and stir briefly, spreading out rice over the bottom of the pan (you can use shrimp shells, herbs, clam juice, and/or squid ink to make a stock; alternatively, use a pre-made stock). Season with salt. Simmer rice 5 minutes, then transfer to an oven at 300 F. Bake until rice reaches desired texture, 12-15 minutes. 5 minutes before done, spread your seafood or vegetables over the rice in pan and finish baking. When cooking on a grill, we follow the same steps but increase our stock by ¼ cup.

Tomato risotto is a flavorful version of the classic dish. Colavita® Crushed or Diced tomatoes add a sweet and tangy flavor to brighten up the creamy Colavita® Arborio or Carnaroli Rice. Don't forget a little grated parmesan cheese, Colavita® EVOO, and fresh herbs and you'll have a fresh and delicious meal in under 30 minutes.