The numbers are in: the average person eats a nearly 4 days worth of calories on Christmas day alone. It’s hard to resist with so many good options on the table. Some people save their best cooking to show off with their Christmas dishes.
Whether you’re hosting or expected to bring a killer side, you want to be the person who gets to carry home an empty casserole dish because your recipe flew off the table.
Everyone has something good in their repertoire but what really drives guests wild is the chance to try something new. If you’re looking to expand the menu, check out these 5 dishes that could inspire changes to the menu this Christmas.
1. Campari Frosé Punch
You definitely need to start with something sure to get everyone into their holiday spirits. There’s no better way than frosé (frozen rosé) punch. Frosé was the trend of this summer but there’s no reason you need to hang it up until springtime.
By adding a splash of Campari to your frosé mixture, you’ll give it the right amount of class for your holiday celebration. A simple mix of lemons, sugar, frosé and Campari frozen the night before is all it takes.
The mixture can be brought to life as guests arrive by adding it to a blender and pouring it into elegant glasses.
For more on this recipe, check out this method to make batches of 8-10.
2. Spiced and Glazed Nuts
While your guests are arriving and mingling, be sure to have something on hand to snack on. If you want to keep them from picking at your desserts and dinner sides, try a simple take on mixed nuts.
Try a mix of sweet and spicy ingredients together. Add nutmeg or cinnamon to add a more festive take. Start with an egg and 3/4 cup of sugar, experiment with nut and spice combinations, roast for 10 minutes and you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Nuts can also be candied on the stovetop with a small amount of butter and sugar. Try a few different combinations a week before and see what works out the best.
3. Pumpkin Cornbread with Red Onion
A fluffy skillet-made cornbread is a classic that’s made it’s way up past the Mason-Dixon line in the last few years. Rather than have your cornbread sit off to the side as an afterthought, make it a centerpiece with a new take on an old classic.
With honey, onion, and pumpkin seeds, this recipe has it all. The rich flavor with a hint of sweetness will have friends and family requesting this be added to the menu every year.
Make sure your mixer is in good shape for the density of these ingredients.
4. Gruy?re and Spinach Potato Casserole
Have you rethought the casseroles that are going to be on your table this year? Do potatoes au gratin seem a little stale?
Mix up your Christmas dishes by opting for Gruyre this year. Rich garlic flavor mixed with the sweetness of the cheese will wow your guests. Use a recipe the first time and improvise next year.
5. Spiced Fruit Salad
With all the ham, cheese, and carbs your guests will be eating, they might be craving a sweet but healthy dessert. Be sure to have something for your gluten-free friends.
Adding some allspice, anise, cloves, and ginger could take a simple fruit salad from a summertime must to a nice complement to the logs burning in the fireplace. Try this mix for best results.
Be Bold With This Year’s Christmas Dishes
People expect something special on Christmas. Make sure they go away raving about your latest dish.
If you have any questions about these recipes or want to know more of our favorite Christmas dishes, contact us.
