Sure, we can all drool over Martha Stewart's impeccable spreads and dishes. But actually making them? Um, forget it. And yes, Pinterest does provide us with endless inspirational photos, but I think those are usually best left to the professionals. Besides, who's got time for all that fancy pants business during the holidays? 

What's a less-than-Martha type of chick to do with limited time, resources and know-how? Cheat. 

Yup, that's right. Cheat your way through a classy affair with our round up of crazy easy, simple recipes. While they'll all taste like you slaved away for hours in the kitchen, the truth is you'll be out of kitchen lickety-split. But don't worry, we won't tell anyone! 

In fact, we'll admit that we're total cheaters ourselves. Here's a quickie recipe from the ChickAdvisor Staff's recipe library (courtesy of Claire) that uses leftovers and other items you should have in your pantry: 

Rice & Apple Pudding

Leftover plain cooked rice
Apples, peeled and cut into bite sized pieces
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar
Milk

Warm rice over low heat with enough milk to make a creamy dessert-like texture. In a separate pot, cook or steam apples in a small quantity of water until soft. Add brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg to taste - it should be comparable to apple pie filling. Serve creamy rice topped with spoonfuls of apple.  

Here are some more easy inspirations: 


(additional images via guesthousecatering.com) 

1. Sweet & Salty Roasted Almonds: Just season and roast.

2. Easy Bruschetta: Choose fresh and delicious ingredients like tomatoes, mushrooms or prosciutto and mix together with oil on crusty bread. 

3. Easy Italian Chicken: All you need for this recipe is chicken and Italian dressing! 

4. Flourless Nutella Cake: Got eggs and Nutella? Then you've got this cake. 

5. Bailey's Chocolate Truffle: Be the most popular guest at your next potluck party!
 

1. Maple Souffle: Eggs and maple syrup are all you have to have on hand to make this impressive looking souffle!

2. Ice Cream Cake: Just stack on ice cream sandwiches.

3. Creamy Garlic Broccoli: Use hummus to season with this recipe. 

4. Goat Cheese Balls: Coat goat cheese in delicious spices and herbs.

5. Garlic French Fries: Just like a restaurant, but you can use pre-made frozen fries.

What are your food or entertaining tips when you are short on time or lack skill?