Ditch the Delivery! 12 Takeout Dishes You Can Make Yourself

If you have a more extensive takeout menu collection than cookbook collection, it’s time to learn how to make some of your favorite delivery dishes from scratch. You’ll be surprised at how easy many of them are, and how much better they taste. Here are a few of our favorites.

1. Sweet and Sour Tofu with Bok Choy: It might not be bright pink, but we promise this sweet and sour tofu is better than takeout. (via Big Girls Small Kitchen)

2. Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala: Break out your slow-cooker instead of your takeout menu collection for this classic Indian dish. (via Real Simple)

3. Mozzarella Sticks: No need to call your local pizza place just to order mozzarella sticks. These herbed ones will become your new favorite. (via Coconut and Lime)

4. California Rolls: Have you ever tried rolling your own sushi? If not, we highly recommend it. That way you can design the perfect roll for you. (via Healthful Pursuit)

5. Veggie Stromboli: The key to making this recipe even easier? Start with store-bought pizza dough. (via Never Homemaker)

6. Crispy Chicken Fingers: Roll these chicken fingers in Cornflakes to make them extra crispy. (via Fitness Magazine)

7. Steamed Pork Buns: Don’t be intimidated but this dim sum dish. They are easier to make than they look. (via Coconut and Lime)

8. Skinny Crab Rangoon: We don’t know about you, but crab rangoon is one of our favorites. And this homemade version is healthier than what you’d get delivered. (via Gen Y Foodie)

9. Barbecue Chicken Pizza: The best part about this recipe is that you can use your favorite barbecue sauce. Get ready for the best slice ever. (via Baked by Rachel)

10. Pad Thai: The best part about making your own pad thai is that you can leave out any of the ingredients you normally pick around when you order it. (via Chatelaine)

11. Garlic Knots: Skip the breadsticks, there’s something so much better about garlic knots instead, and they’re so easy to make you’ll be eating them all the time. (via Simply Recipes)

12. Homemade Fortune Cookies: And to wrap it all off, what would Chinese takeout be without fortune cookies? Here’s the easiest way to make your own. (via Ceramic Canvas)

What’s the one take out recipe you’d love to learn to make? Tell us in the comments!

Traditional red and green decor will always have its charm, but can sometimes fall dangerously close into tacky territory. If you're craving a fresher look this season, we've rounded up holiday decor in the trendiest colors. From earthy neutrals to muted rainbows and every shade of red beyond Santa's suit, these holiday decor finds are here make your home feel extra merry and bright.

Fuschia Accents

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Satin Bow Garland

Give your holiday decor an edgy twist with a bold, vibrant hue like fuchsia. Pair it with metallics for a luxe look, or mix it with jewel tones like emerald and sapphire for a rich and elegant vibe.

Gather Goods

Gather Goods Linen Cloth Napkins, Set of 2

50 Shades of Red

Etsy

Etsy Handmade Decorations

Embrace deep, on-trend hues like scarlet, burgundy, and Bordeaux in your holiday decor. These rich shades pair beautifully with golds, greens, and creams, perfect for creating a cozy, elegant aesthetic.

Earthy Neutrals

West Elm

West Elm Flocked Ball Ornaments, Set of 9

Bring a calming, natural vibe to your holiday decor with earthy neutrals. Soft shades like taupe, earthy greens and reds, and warm ivory add a subtle elegance and blend well with organic materials like wood, linen, and greenery.

Mid-Century Whimsy

Schoolhouse

Swiss Scallop Stocking

Feeling nostalgic? Go with whimsical colors inspired by mid-century design and heirloom aesthetic. Think vibrant teals, cheerful yellows, and retro pinks that add playful nostalgia to your space. Mixing these hues with vintage ornaments and quirky accents creates a joyful, unique look.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Bon Bon Napkin Rings, Set of 4

Muted Rainbow 

Target

Meri Meri Rainbow Table Candles

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Mini Ornament Wreath

We've transformed our popular mini ornament set into a cheerful wreath, brimming with festive holiday color.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

The intensity of Scorpio season continues as we grapple with a new reality. World events are dizzying, and it can feel as if the ground has shifted into unsteady, unfamiliar territory. It has for many of us. While societal events certainly influence us all, this horoscope column is focused on our personal evolution. We have very little control over the world at large, but we can control our reactions to them and strive to make our lives full and meaningful. Keep reading for an astrological overview of what's happening in the sky this week, along with your personalized weekly horoscope reading for November 10 through 17, 2024.

What's happening astrologically during the week of November 10 to 17, 2024?

Jen P.

Pluto and Mars are still engaged in a disruptive and transformative opposition, which will continue well into 2025. Stay grounded, practice self-care, tend to your inner equanimity, and avoid volatile arguments or situations you can’t control. Use this energy to propel yourself toward a personal goal or transformation. Break a bad habit or start a new, positive discipline.

What does it mean when Mars is in the sign of Leo?

Erol Ahmed

Mars, the planet of action, is still in the sign of Leo. Courage, leadership, and taking actions for the benefit of others are ways to express ourselves when Mars is in Leo. Heart energy is essential to Leo. Operating from a pure, altruistic heart is the highest expression for Leo. The heart chakra links our lower and higher selves, creating balance and enabling us to act from a center of right use of will — in other words, expressing our will for the benefit of all. Leo energy becomes unbalanced when it’s overly egoistic. Love is one of the main lessons in this human form: learning about love, expressing it, receiving it, and spreading it to the world around us.

What does Venus in Capricorn mean for me?

Ryan Franco

Fittingly, Venus, the planet of love, shifts from the freewheeling sign of Sagittarius to the more serious and contemplative sign of Capricorn from November 11 to December 8. With Venus in Capricorn, we have the chance to express love in a more thoughtful, responsible, and earnest way. Our emotions take on an introspective tone, and we may find ourselves accepting responsibility for our actions with a maturity that brings deeper fulfillment than we may have approached when Venus was in Sagittarius. Venus in Capricorn is anything but superficial; true love is profound and deeply satisfying.

When does Saturn turn direct?

Mishal Ibrahim

Saturn turns direct on November 15, bringing us out of the retrograde phase, which may have prompted reflection on our responsibilities and plans to manifest our dreams. Saturn will remain in Pisces until May 26, giving us time to take deliberate action. This slow buildup can be used to attend to details that bring us into alignment with our life path. Saturn in Pisces represents the manifestation of our dreams. Aim high but stay true to your essence. This is not about chasing daydreams but about a serious and responsible approach to bettering our lives and connecting with our highest purpose.

William Chen/Pexels

We round out the week with an exciting opposition between the Sun and Uranus. This electric energy might manifest as irritability or rebellion. Stay flexible and use this energy positively. The urge for freedom may inspire bold self-expression or a sudden solution to a problem that has been vexing you. Keep an open mind for anything unusual and be ready to seize an opportunity that might appear and disappear quickly.

I look to the dark sky and the planets to help navigate the world around us. If you’d like to know more about how these and other transits affect your life, please contact me for a personalized reading!

Read Your Sun and Rising Signs For Your Weekly Horoscope For November 10

Brit + Co

Aries (March 21-April 20)

For the next few months, you might struggle to get things done. It’s not that you lack goals or dreams, but it may be challenging to muster the energy to act on them. Don’t be too hard on yourself. This is a valuable time to slow down, pay attention to your dreams, and tap into the spiritual side of life. Use music, art, and poetry to soothe your soul. Writing down what you’re feeling and dreaming would be beneficial. If you have a draft that needs editing, now is a good time to settle into that project. Take it slowly, and don’t expect too much progress too quickly.

Brit + Co

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

Cultivate community and collaborate with others to achieve mutually beneficial goals. Even if group dynamics are challenging, recognize the lessons in patience and understanding. Ensure you align with your group and work together for the common good. The overall theme is working with others and taking responsibility for your role. Establish a solid routine and structure, and share responsibilities with people you admire and respect. Lasting change cannot be made hastily or without organization. Take your time and stay focused.

Brit + Co

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

Work and career are highlighted for the next few months. Create structure, and stick to an organized framework to achieve your goals. Take responsibility, and maintain integrity, honesty, and high standards in everything you do. You may have an opportunity to step into a leadership role. Forces might be working against you, but if you stay committed, brave, and tenacious, you'll reach your goals. As always, use your words wisely and don’t shy away from speaking the truth. Reflect on what success means to you, and seek advice from trusted friends and colleagues to align your outer achievements with your inner values.

Brit + Co

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

You may find yourself dreaming of learning and expanding your consciousness through travel. You might feel a longing for adventure that involves metaphysical growth and learning. This isn’t the type of travel where you relax on a beach reading romance novels; it’s about gaining lasting insights into the universe and your place in it. Pay attention to inspiring insights that may spark profound growth over the coming months.

Brit + Co

Leo (July 23-August 22)

You're entering a period of profound personal growth. Face your fears and identify what holds you back. Recognize any patterns that prevent you from experiencing life deeply. Move with intention and purpose. This pivotal point could serve as inspiration for you throughout your life. While you might face difficult realizations, approaching them with a desire for growth could yield brilliant, uplifting results. The key is honesty and hard work, but it won’t feel overwhelming if your attitude is flexible and resolute.

Brit + Co

Virgo (August 23-September 22)

Strive for reciprocity in your relationships. Balancing responsibilities and creating harmony with your partners may require fine-tuning. This opportunity isn’t confined to intimate relationships—all relationships can recalibrate for greater fairness. Your relationship with yourself also comes into focus. Observe your default reactions to life’s challenges to identify what needs attention to achieve balance.

Brit + Co

Libra (September 23-October 22)

Manage your energy and organize your life at work and home to avoid burnout. If your superiors demand too much, set up a meeting to establish boundaries while maintaining high standards. Make your mental and physical health a priority. Commit to therapy, regular exercise, and a balanced diet. The lessons learned here will support you in handling greater responsibilities in the future. You're laying the foundation for success.

Brit + Co

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

Connect with your true inner self. Life experiences can create layers that mask our true essence. Use the coming months to uncover these layers and reveal your core nature. Approach this process with compassion and honesty, possibly with a therapist's help. Through creative expression, heartfelt honesty, and examining past conditioning, you may discover the beauty beneath life’s accumulated layers. This deep understanding of yourself and your role in others' lives could be the reward for your diligent efforts.

Brit + Co

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

You have an opportunity to clear emotional clutter. Home and security are in focus for the next few months. Address any feelings of scarcity or unresolved childhood patterns related to safety. You may be negotiating a home purchase, moving, or addressing maintenance issues that affect your stability. Understanding your relationship with home and nurturing is part of your growth cycle. Create a comforting framework for what “home” means to you.

Brit + Co

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

With Venus entering Capricorn, it’s time to get serious about love and what you value. Create a structure around your artistic expression—take a class or learn from a mentor. Poetry might inspire you, and you could benefit from practicing it to express your love for those around you. Finances may play a role, but don’t hesitate to invest in something that beautifies your home or wardrobe. Show appreciation to friends and family through small, tangible acts of kindness.

Brit + Co

Aquarius (January 20-February 19)

Security remains a theme this week. Reflect on what you value, and get disciplined about finances. Set a structure for savings, necessities, and charity. By sticking to this plan for the coming months, you’ll make real progress toward a financial goal. Ensure your goals align with your core values. Material worth is only part of the story—consider what brings joy and fulfillment beyond money.

Brit + Co

Pisces (February 20-March 21)

This is a time to let go of what no longer serves you. Therapy could help reveal what to release. Engage in an honest appraisal of your life, shedding outworn attitudes or blockages that prevent you from facing reality. Use creativity or music to support this introspective journey. Have a support system of people who encourage this process and provide a stable foundation. This release may feel like an earthquake, but it marks the beginning of growth and change.

Looking for a more thorough reading? Reach out to Tina at SevenSistersAstrology.com!

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This year, you could break out the same old decorations you’ve relied on. Or, you could spice things up with some quirky Christmas decor and add a unique touch of fun to the season. And boy, do we have some fun picks, from goofy light fixtures to inflatable outdoor decor to baubles and ornaments, that are good for more than a few laughs. There are even some DIY products you can work on with loved ones to make this Christmas and those to come even more personal. So whether you plan to host a festive event this year or simply spend time with family, you’ll find no shortage of decorations and elements to bring out the joy of the season.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Prextex Winter Textured Snow Spray Ensures a White Christmas

Amazon

Best-selling Prextex winter textured snow spray can bring the winter weather indoors without any of the chills. This set of two should ensure you can coat your tree and other decorations with a hearty coating of the white stuff.

See it on Amazon

These Christmas Can Cooler Sleeves Enhance the Party

Amazon

While they aren’t big light displays, these Christmas can cooler sleeves can nonetheless help tie together your holiday events to come. Each sleeve in this pack of a dozen sports a message and color befitting the cheerful mood of the season.

See it on Amazon

This Festive Grinch Neon Sign Is Naughty and Nice

Amazon

Neon signs are a bright and fun way to celebrate just about anything, Christmas included. So when your guests see this Grinch neon sign, Santa hat and all, it’s sure to crack a few smiles among them.

See it on Amazon

Disco Ball String Lights Really Pop

Amazon

These disco ball string lights are an atypical take on a classic holiday decorative element. However, you may end up liking them a lot more for their funky and reflective appearance, especially given they come in multiple color options like silver, rose gold, and multicolor.

See it on Amazon

These Snowman String Lights Are Merry and Bright

Amazon

Snowman string lights make for a cute and seasonal enhancement to your holiday setup. They’re a classic symbol that you can use to adorn your tree or line up around the windows.

See it on Amazon

Hang Up Some Zany Flamingo String Lights

Amazon

Naturally, one of the animals that comes to mind during the winter season is the flamingo. Okay, that’s not true, but that doesn’t detract from these goofy flamingo string lights. Try out a set if you’re aiming for a “pink” Christmas rather than a white one.

See it on Amazon

These Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights Are Ideal For Christmas and Beyond

Amazon

Most outdoor lighting, as far as Christmas is concerned, is meant to eventually be taken down. Govee permanent outdoor lights are quite the opposite if the name didn’t clue you in. Once installed, you can rely on these year-round, changing their colors and selecting from color-changing modes for festive displays via your phone or smart home assistant.

See it on Amazon

Watch Flakes Fall Via Christmas Projector Lights

Amazon

Whether or not it’s a white Christmas this year for you, these Christmas projector lights can at least simulate the snowfall. Once you set up yours outside, larger-than-life snowflakes will drift down the front of your home for all to see.

See it on Amazon

Some Flameless LED Candles Are a Twinkling Addition

Amazon

These flameless LED candles have an extra Christmasey twist by way of additional string lights around each candle. On top of that, like other flameless candles, these negate the need for open flames as a part of your holiday-themed decor, conveniently working instead via remote.

See it on Amazon

Celebrate With Some Coffee and Beverage Ornaments

Amazon

If caffeine is more than just a friend, celebrate it this year by hanging one or a few of these coffee and beverage ornaments. Featured are a coffee machine, a pumpkin spice latte, a coffee pot, and more fun depictions. There are even other drinks like boba and an ICEE slushy.

See it on Amazon

This Ramen Noodle Cup Ornament Pays Homage to the Quick Snack

Amazon

For some of us, ramen noodles helped us get through hard times, such as the college grind. This ramen noodle cup ornament is an homage to this delicious quick snack. You and your loved ones will likely get a chuckle out of seeing this on your tree.

See it on Amazon

Enjoy a Friendly Bob Ross "Happy Little Christmas" Ornament

Amazon

The late painter Bob Ross is an icon of kindness and dedication to one’s craft. So, of course, he deserves a spot on your tree in the form of this Bob Ross "Happy Little Christmas" ornament. Just look at that impressive afro.

See it on Amazon

Tee Off the Holidays By Hanging a Golf Cart with Wreath Ornament

Amazon

Even if golf isn’t your favorite sport, you have to admit the cuteness level of this golf cart with wreath ornament is off the charts. Available in several colors, this tiny cart features a wreath on the hood and string lights around the roof, about as festive as it can get.

See it on Amazon

These Lollipop Ornaments Are Mouth-Watering Decorations

Amazon

These vibrant lollipop ornaments can add more than a little color to your Christmas tree this year. Each one is a different shape, taking delicious-looking forms that you’ll have to warn your kids not to try to eat.

See it on Amazon

DIY Clear Baubles Are a Fun Project that Pays Off

Amazon

The creative potential for these DIY clear baubles is, well, clear. This pack comes with 20 spheres for you to fill up as you please, making them a fun pre-Christmas project for the family that will go on display the morning of.

See it on Amazon

This Crashing Reindeer Animated Decoration Is Hilarious

Amazon

This animatronic crashing reindeer animated decoration implies one of Santa’s reindeer went off course and crash-landed right into your window. While active, this decoration kicks its legs, giving life to the comedic mishap.

See it on Amazon

Winterize Your Banister Thanks to a Penguin Stairway Decoration

Amazon

Not only is a penguin stairway decoration adorable, but it’s thoroughly festive, too. With one on your banister, you can enjoy an indoor snowy display that can even be lit up thanks to included string lights.

See it on Amazon

Lay Down a Tasty Looking Christmas Beaded Table Runner

Amazon

Although this product comes in other themes like autumn, Halloween, and more, we’re here to highlight the Christmas beaded table runner. This jolly smattering of peppermint candies can bring a quirky splash of color to your dinner table. Or, of course, you can opt for the more traditional selection that’s bordered with holly.

See it on Amazon

This Christmas-Themed Bathroom Decor Set Is Outrageous

Amazon

In your household, nobody should be able to escape the holiday cheer, not even in the bathroom. Because when they go, they’ll encounter this Christmas-themed bathroom decor set. From the toilet seat and tank cover to the tissue box holder to the floor mat and hand towel, every “go” will be a festive activity.

See it on Amazon

Step Onto a Fun Christmas Bathroom Rug

Amazon

This Christmas bathroom rug is a tasteful way to throw down some holiday colors where visitors may not expect them. You can either opt for the tree design or a friendly Santa face, as well as a funky pink Santa, if you like to mix things up.

See it on Amazon

Set Up a Festive and Vibrant Christmas Cat Tree Tower

Amazon

When you pick up a Christmas cat tree tower in its smaller or larger variety, you invite your feline friends to celebrate with you. This tower is covered in spots for lounging, stretching out, and playing. Its green, white, and red colors will be a great addition to your decorations.

See it on Amazon

Enjoy The Elaborate Colors Of Govee Curtain Lights

Amazon

Govee curtain lights are one of the more elaborate smart lighting systems you can use all year long. They can turn a whole wall or window of your home into a light show, featuring extensive customizability and dynamic scenes for celebrating the holidays.

See it on Amazon

Find Solace in Some Adorable Emotional Support Gingerbread

Amazon

After the hardships of this year, you could use some support. Namely, from some delightful emotional support gingerbread. This plush basket of equally plushy cookies features five gingerbread people that you can play with or leave on display for the holidays.

See it on Amazon

These Christmas Gnomes Are Charming Companions

Amazon

Some people put up Santas and reindeer as decor, but you might opt for these more “out there” Christmas gnomes. They come fit with red and white hats, as well as the characteristic beards one might expect from the creatures.

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These Merry Christmas Party Decorations Cost Little But Add a Lot

Amazon

This 12-piece pack of merry Christmas party decorations is a surefire way to add some color to your decoration setup without a big price tag. And they’re available in multiple other color schemes if you’re aiming for a less typical palette for your party.

See it on Amazon

Enjoy a Build a Snowman Kit With the Fam

Amazon

In the spirit of coming together and decorating alike, build snowman kits seems fitting of both themes. Within this set is enough for building up to nine custom snowmen, fit with winter gear and tophats.

See it on Amazon

The Kids Will Dig This DIY Lighted Felt Christmas Tree

Amazon

For the younger audiences that you may not trust with the more delicate decorations, consider picking up a DIY lighted felt Christmas tree. It comes with 33 ornaments for kids to attach on their own, as well as attachable string lights and a snowman advent calendar.

See it on Amazon

A Women’s Light Up Christmas Sweater Will Win You the Ugly Sweater Contest

Amazon

Ugly sweaters have made their way into tradition, and we’re here for it. And there are plenty to choose from among this selection of light up Christmas sweaters. Not only do each of these sweaters feature wacky designs, but every one has built-in lighting that takes the gag to new heights.

See it on Amazon

Check Out This Wacky Men's Ugly Christmas Sweaters

Amazon

Dressing up like a doofus has never been quite as easy as wearing one of these Men's ugly Christmas sweaters. They’re festive, they’re wacky, and they’re guaranteed to liven up the party with options that make you look like a decorated tree or proudly display some wacky holiday messages.

See it on Amazon

Don a Warm and Jovial Knitted Christmas Hat

Amazon

Not even the top of your head is safe from the festive spirit when there are options like these knitted Christmas hats out there. One style sports a decorated tree with a white pompom on the end, while the other outfits your head with a Santa hat and full beard.

See it on Amazon

Santa Beard Masks Come With Festive Facial Hair

Amazon

If you’re aiming to balance health concerns with holiday cheer, you’ll want to look into this pair of Santa beard masks. They can cover up your mouth while sporting magnificent beards that would make the merry North Pole dweller proud.

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Watch Your Pet Trot Around in a Santa Dog Costume

Amazon

Whatever size your dog may be, there should be a Santa dog costume that fits them snugly. Turn your pup into a mighty steed for Santa Claus, featuring the man himself or a snowman riding atop your dog’s back in multiple styles and patterns.

See it on Amazon

Keep Warm by This Electric Fireplace Heater

Amazon

While the visual aspect of this electric fireplace heater alone is enough to enhance the holiday aesthetic, this device also serves a practical purpose. With the included remote, you can activate this faux fireplace to keep the nearby space warm, letting you cuddle up by the fireplace without the need for flames.

See it on Amazon

Light Up a Christmas Leg Lamp as a Fun Movie Reference

Amazon

The spitting image of its counterpart from the movie A Christmas Story, this Christmas leg lamp is a gag that is just as funny today as it was back then. In fact, you could put it in your front window for onlookers to admire.

See it on Amazon

Celebrate With a Humerous Outdoor Christmas Inflatable

Amazon

Your outdoor decor simply won’t be complete without one of these wacky outdoor Christmas inflatables. Each is funnier than the last, from Santa riding a dinosaur to a family of polar bears to the jolly man having a wardrobe malfunction while climbing up a ladder.

See it on Amazon

Christmas Window Stickers Feature Multiple Funky Sets

Amazon

With some traditional options and some zany ones, a pack of Christmas window stickers could be the finishing touch for the decorations you were looking for. Our favorite set features black cats adorned with festive lights, but there are also styles with reindeer, gnomes, and more.

See it on Amazon

Hang This Welcoming Christmas Jack Skellington Door Sign

Amazon

"The Nightmare Before Christmas" is a celebrated mashup of two favorite holidays. So if the film has a special place in your heart, you can celebrate it with this Christmas Jack Skellington door sign.

See it on Amazon