Giada's Holiday Handbook

Giada De Laurentiis provides creative, doable and fun entertaining ideas for different holidays and special occasions in this series, which premieres with a festive open house featuring a menu inspired by autumn. Included: chai-chocolate truffles; white velvet soup; spicy cocktail puffs; and jam cocktails.

Giada puts a modern spin on a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. The menu includes pumpkin Alfredo lasagna rolls; crispy truffled turkey; and caramelized apple semifreddo cake.

Giada throws a cocktail-style Thanksgiving celebration for her closest friends. On the menu are appetizer-size versions of beloved holiday dishes. Included: stuffing arancini; turkey Waldorf bites; charred Brussels sprouts crostini; and a mulled Cosmo.

Giada hosts a Christmas celebration for her large extended family. Recipes include: roasted fennel with Parmesan; creamy lobster pasta; chocolate-almond cheesecake; and a citrus-berry-vermouth spritz.

Giada hosts a holiday party for her girlfriends that's all about decadent desserts and sparkling drinks. On the menu: orange mousse with ginger snap crumble; peppermint Patty sandwich cookies; hazelnut torte with chocolate-espresso frosting; lemon-hazelnut spritz cocktails.

Gingerbread houses are made by Giada's daughter and her friends. And kid-friendly treats are served, including s'more popcorn; pizza grilled cheese; veggie forest with Parmesan ranch dip; and frozen hot chocolate affogatos.

Giada hosts Christmas dinner for family and friends. She prepares an elegant feast inspired by a recent trip to Positano, Italy, without spending all day in the kitchen. On the menu: tortellini in Parmesan brodo; risotto with clams; braised lamb shanks with escarole and radicchio; and a chocolate candy cane tower.