Christmas Day brings a flurry of activities, from opening presents, attending church, and perhaps even starting to cook your Christmas dinner. Amidst all the excitement, making a festive Christmas lunch may take a back seat, especially if your family also indulges in a hearty Christmas breakfast. However, devoting some time and effort to preparing a simple lunch that isn’t too heavy would indeed keep the festive spirit going, fueling you and your loved ones for the rest of the day.
This blog will guide you through an array of Christmas lunch recipes, from tantalising appetisers, satiating salads and soups, delicious main courses, and sumptuous side dishes to mouth-watering desserts. Whether you’re looking for quick-to-make casseroles, innovative salads, or Christmas-themed appetisers, this blog lists down everything you’d need for a perfect holiday feast.
So, enjoy the joyous day of togetherness with your family while savouring these sumptuous dishes. Read on to discover some easy and quick Christmas lunch ideas that are sure to wow your guests!
Appetisers
Leave a memorable first impression on your guests with an array of tempting appetisers. Whether you prefer something warm and chewy, like Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms, or something a bit crisp and colourful, like Holiday Salsa with Festive Tortilla Chips, appetisers can set a festive mood. For sandwich lovers, surprise them with Mini Chicken & Biscuit Sandwiches, or win over cheese lovers with Grilled Cheese & Pepper delights. These appetisers surely make the perfect start to a Christmas feast!
Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
The Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms offer an impeccable blend of flavours. Here’s why they are a must-try:
- They have a savoury filling made of seasoned sausage, which complements the earthy flavour of mushrooms.
- Using breadcrumbs with dried herbs enhances their taste, making them even more irresistible.
- The juicy and meaty texture of the sausage-stuffed mushrooms is sure to keep your guests coming back for more!
- They’re simple to prepare yet leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Holiday Salsa with Festive Tortilla Chips
Holiday Salsa with Festive Tortilla Chips
Add a festive touch to your appetiser list with colourful and tangy Holiday Salsa served with themed tortilla chips. Whisk together a vibrant blend of fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, sweet onions, tangy lime juice, and fragrant cilantro. The colour and crunch of this salsa, paired with the crispiness of Christmas-shaped tortilla chips, make it a treat to the taste buds and a sight to behold. Moreover, this salsa is a healthy option full of antioxidants and vitamins, an added benefit amidst the usual holiday indulgences!
Mini Chicken & Biscuit Sandwiches
Mini Chicken Biscuit Sandwiches
These Mini Chicken & Biscuit Sandwiches stand as a testament to the saying ‘great things come in small packages’. Here’s a peek into what makes them special:
| Highlights | Reasoning |
| Juicy shredded chicken smothered in rich gravy | Adds an immense depth of flavour |
| Tiny-sized biscuits freshly baked to perfection | Provides a soft, flaky contrast to the chicken’s juicy texture |
| Topped with finely chopped leafy greens | Boosts the sandwiches’ nutritional value |
So, give your Christmas appetiser a comforting twist by including these delightful sandwich bites.
Grilled Cheese & Pepper Sandwiches
Grilled Cheese Pepper Sandwiches
Ignite your Christmas lunch with some delicious Grilled Cheese & Pepper Sandwiches. Stuffed with gooey melted cheese and tangy bell peppers, these sandwiches pack a flavourful punch. The multi-coloured bell peppers bring a festive spin to the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Be sure to toast the bread slices to a nice golden crunch that perfectly complements the soft, cheesy filling. These Grilled Cheese & Pepper Sandwiches are delicious and visually appealing, making them an absolute must-have for your Christmas brunch.
Salads and Soups
Follow up the appetisers with some hearty salads and nourishing soups. These light yet warming dishes work as a fantastic bridge between appetisers and main courses. They not only balance the festive meal but also set the stage for the grand main course to follow. Wondering what to include? Consider options like Spinach and Pecan Salad, Chicken Pasta Salad, Chicken Tortellini Soup, and Merry Berry Salad. These festive salads and soups call for simple ingredients yet deliver complex flavours that are bound to wow your guests.
Spinach and Pecan Salad
Spinach and Pecan Salad
Win your guest’s taste buds with this vibrant Spinach and Pecan Salad. Here are some reasons why your guests will love it:
- Brightly coloured spinach leaves make this dish an eye-catcher.
- The crunch of toasted pecans contrasts beautifully with the soft spinach.
- The tangy dressing made from apple cider vinegar brings all the elements together.
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a busy holiday kitchen!
- Also read: Indian salad recipes for dinner.
Chicken Pasta Salad
Chicken Pasta Salad
This creamily dressed Chicken Pasta Salad is both delicious and satiating. Here’s what makes it a perfect addition to your Christmas lunch menu:
| Highlights | Reasoning |
| Tender pasta mixed with succulent chicken pieces | Provides a delightful blend of textures |
| Creamy, tangy dressing | Imparts a balanced flavour that complements both the chicken and the pasta |
| Topped with finely chopped fresh veggies | Adds a burst of colour and enhances the salad’s nutritional value |
So, don’t miss out on incorporating this all-time favourite salad into your meal plan!
Also read: Lemon chicken pasta
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Turn the usual soup game around with an Italian touch! The Chicken Tortellini soup, studded with pillowy cheese-filled tortellini, shredded chicken, and a medley of diced veggies, offers a soul-warming dish for your guests. The broth, flavoured with herby notes, makes it a delectable soup to savour. Drizzle a bit of olive oil and sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top before serving to enhance its taste further. This soup is not just delicious but also comes with the comfort factor that one seeks in the festive season.
Also read: Italian chicken soup
Merry Berry Salad
Merry Berry Salad
Add a pop of colour to your salad spread with a Merry Berry Salad. Loaded with vibrant berries such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, this salad boasts a refreshing taste. Tossed in a light dressing of white wine vinegar, honey, and olive oil, this berry delight is the perfect combination of sweet and tart flavours. Complemented by the crunch of almond slices and the added richness of goat cheese, this salad is the epitome of a well-rounded dish that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Main Courses
The main course is the star of any ultimate Christmas dinner lunch. Whether you fancy a Pork Tenderloin with Clementine Glaze, an ensemble of Pull-Apart Turkey Pesto Sliders, a comforting bowl of One-Pot Butternut Squash Soup, or classic Chicken & Dumplings from our Christmas menu, these recipes are sure to impress your guests. The tempting mix of flavours and the hearty nature of these dishes make them perfect for a festive gathering. Also, for the heat cravers, a warming White Turkey Chilli would be a winner. So, gear up as we delve into these sumptuous main course dishes.
Pork Tenderloin with Clementine Glaze
Pork Tenderloin with Clementine Glaze
Celebrate the joyous spirit of Christmas with a spot-on Pork Tenderloin glazed with Clementine. This dish is a star because:
- The tender pork loin is coated with a sweet and tangy Clementine glaze, enhancing its flavours.
- It promises a burst of joy with each bite, thanks to the tangy element of the citrus.
- It’s perfectly roasted to a golden brown, achieving a beautiful balance of textures.
- Best served with roasted veggies or your favourite holiday side dishes for a complete meal.
- Also read: Pork cutlet
Pull-Apart Turkey Pesto Sliders
Pull Apart Turkey Pesto Sliders
Add a fun twist to your main course offering with Pull-Apart Turkey Pesto Sliders. These bite-sized delights pack in juicy turkey chunks and zesty homemade pesto sauce nestled between soft slider buns. Brush the top of the buns with garlicky herb butter before baking to infuse an added layer of flavour. These sliders are not just delicious but also easy to share, making them perfect for the holiday season. Your guests are sure to love this fun and creative take on traditional turkey-centric main courses.
One-Pot Butternut Squash Soup
One Pot Butternut Squash Soup
The One-Pot Butternut Squash Soup is a velvety, smooth and warming treat for your guests. This soup offers several features:
| Highlights | Reasoning |
| Butternut squash puréed to a velvety texture | Gives the soup a comforting and rich base |
| A dash of nutmeg and cinnamon | Adds a festive and warm depth to the flavour palate |
| Topped with crème fraîche and roasted pumpkin seeds | Enhances its texture and extravagance with a creamy swirl and crunchy bits |
Relish this creamy bowl of comfort, which is sure to add a touch of elegance to your holiday spread.
Also read: Spicy Butternut Squash Soup
Chicken & Dumplings
Chicken Dumplings
Indulge in some hearty comfort food this Christmas with a classic dish – Chicken & Dumplings! A rich, savoury slow cooker chicken stew garnished with fluffy dumplings, this dish spells hominess in every bite. The creamy soup base, infused with aromatic herbs, forms the perfect backdrop for tender chicken pieces and homemade dumplings. It’s a well-rounded, satisfying dish with different textures and delectable flavours. Chicken & Dumplings will undoubtedly bring the warmth and comfort of Grandma’s kitchen to your Christmas lunch, nestled in a single bowl.
White Turkey Chilli
White Turkey Chili
A simmering pot of White Turkey Chilli can act as a hearty main course offering for your Christmas lunch. Packed with succulent turkey meat, white beans, and loads of spices, this chilli has a well-balanced heat level to please your guests. Its creamy consistency, topped with tangy lime juice and fresh cilantro, makes it a comforting and hearty dish. Offer some crunchy tortilla chips or crusty bread on the side for a complete, fulfilling meal. This rich and creamy chilli provides the perfect antidote to cold winter days!
Sides
Enhance the appeal of your main courses with some deliciously flavoured sides. Complement your main dishes with creamy Easy Creamed Spinach, or make a wholesome serving of Basmati Rice with Pecans, Cranberries, Apples, and Feta to balance out the flavours. These sides not only enrich the meals but also provide a variety that appeals to different palates. Moreover, expertly chosen sides make the meal more enjoyable and contribute towards creating a well-rounded festive lunch menu. Let’s delve further into these appealing side dishes.
Easy Creamed Spinach
Easy Creamed Spinach
Creamed Spinach is a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with almost any main course. Here’s why your guests will love it:
- Tender spinach leaves and a creamy sauce make it smooth and luxurious.
- It’s flavoured with a hint of nutmeg that perfectly complements the creaminess.
- It’s cooked in just a single skillet, making it an easy prep.
- This dish offers a beautiful blend of healthiness from spinach and indulgence from cream, making it a crowd-pleaser!
Basmati Rice with Pecans, Cranberries, Apples, and Feta
Basmati Rice with Pecans Cranberries Apples and Feta
Liven up your festive feast with the Basmati Rice with Pecans, Cranberries, Apples, and Feta. Here’s why it is a must-have:
| Highlights | Reasoning |
| Nutty basmati rice stirred with cranberries and apples | Offers a sweet and savoury blend with a delightful crunch |
| Mixed with toasted pecans and crumbled feta | Gives a chunky texture and enhances flavours |
| Perfectly cooked to fluffy delight | Provides an elegant side to complement the main course |
This aromatic and flavorful side dish perfectly enhances the presentation and taste of your Christmas lunch.
Desserts
What’s a festive lunch without sweet endings? Bring a satisfying conclusion to your Christmas meal with scrumptious desserts that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. You can opt for a Festive Charcuterie Board, which provides an assortment of delights or settle for a comfort-filled Biscuits and Gravy Casserole that spreads warmth and happiness. Both are easy to make and can satisfy the different tastes of your guests. After all, desserts are the fairy tales of the kitchen — a happily-ever-after to a good meal.
Festive Charcuterie Board
Festive Charcuterie Board
A Festive Charcuterie Board is a dessert option that brings joy and diversity to your table. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- It showcases a variety of goodies, including chocolates, candies, cookies, and even fruits and nuts.
- Arranging the items in Christmas-themed shapes like a wreath or tree adds a festive touch.
- It allows your guests to pick and choose their preferred treat.
- Besides providing the sweet, it doubles as an eye-catching centrepiece.
This board is all about indulging in little treats and represents a joyful celebration of flavours!
Also read: Festive Christmas treats for kids – yummy recipes
Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
The Biscuits and Gravy Casserole is a sweet endnote that imprints the memory of a delicious meal. Take your guests on a trip down memory lane with this fluffy biscuit base topped with a rich and creamy gravy and seasoned with warm notes of cinnamon. The comforting taste of biscuits harmonised with a sweet sauce makes this dessert an irresistible temptation. Simplifying its preparation using canned biscuits and a quick homemade gravy, this dessert proves that simplicity is indeed the ultimate sophistication.
Conclusion
With the holiday season in full swing, there’s no reason why you should be stressing over the perfect Christmas Lunch menu. This blog has provided you with a comprehensive list of quick and easy ideas for preparing a remarkable Christmas lunch. From delicious starters, comforting soups and salads, and tantalising main courses to delightful sides and tempting desserts, all are designed to wow your guests and create beautiful memories.
Remember, the key to a successful Christmas lunch is to plan ahead and choose recipes, like the ones mentioned here, that not only taste fantastic but also captivate your guests with their lovely presentation. It’s about creating a balance between traditional Christmas elements and fresh, novel ideas that resonate with the joyous spirit of Christmas.
It’s also important to enjoy the process of creating these delicious treats for your loved ones because, as the saying goes, food tastes better when it’s made with love. So here’s wishing you a Merry Christmas and a festive feast filled with great joy, love, laughter, and, of course, delicious food!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy and quick Christmas lunch ideas for vegetarians?
Vegetarian guests can enjoy Holiday Salsa with Festive Tortilla Chips, Spinach and Pecan Salad, One-Pot Butternut Squash Soup, and Easy Creamed Spinach. For dessert, the Festive Charcuterie Board can be stocked with a variety of vegetarian-friendly sweets and fruits.
How to organise a Christmas lunch?
Start by planning the menu in advance. This includes appetisers, salads, soups, main courses, sides, and desserts. Prep anything that can be made ahead of the previous day. On the day, start with dishes that take longer to cook and finish with simpler ones.
What to eat on Christmas afternoon?
Opt for an easy lunch that isn’t too heavy. Options could include sandwiches, winter soups, or make-ahead casseroles. A sit-down lunch with sliders or a grazing lunch of snacks or Christmas appetisers can also be a great choice.
How can you incorporate a theme into your Christmas lunch menu?
Themes can be incorporated by using seasonal ingredients or traditional family dishes. You can also create dishes of equivalent colour to add a festive touch or make your dishes in Christmas-themed shapes. Consider having a ‘White Christmas’ theme using ingredients that are primarily white in colour.
