It's that time of year again, one great eating holiday after the next. And just like last year, we find ourselves in two possible situations.

1. You know exactly what you’re going to cook; nothing to do but buy the ingredients.

2. You have no idea what to cook.

Both are interesting places to be.

Why, you ask?

Well, let's look at the first scenario.

You cook the same favorite dishes every year. You have your recipes down and could most likely make them with your eyes closed.

Comfortable, yes. But does it allow you to show your true talent for cooking?

Probably not.

So why not add something new to your repertoire, something that has all the comfort of what you always make but with a new, exciting flair?

Always make the sweet potato pie? Try sweet potato cheesecake.

Always make the macaroni and cheese? Try to add three or more types of cheese to give it another level of flavor.

Always make the Red Velvet Cake? (Don't change a thing and send me a piece.) Try making red velvet cupcakes filled with cream cheese filling.

If you don't know what to make this year, you're in a great spot.

Take a culinary journey -- and take your guests with you.
Think of a great meal you once had maybe it was a fish dish you had in the Caribbean. Maybe it was an old family recipe your grandmother made.

Are you there yet?

Now, take that food and make it your own. Add your own flair, creating a meal that will allow others to visit that place with you.

Flavors of the season are not only from the food you prepare but from the memories that you add to the meal.

No matter what culinary inspirations you have for the holidays, make sure you enjoy your family and friends -- and not just for the holidays, but always.

Jay Jones is the Executive Chef of Chateau Noir, LLC. (www.chateaunoirllc.com)

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