The snow is falling (maybe), the tree is sparkling, and our hearts are aglow. Everything is ready for Christmas, but maybe not your holiday menu? Still need some inspiration for a casual party or the big Christmas dinner? We’ve rounded up 15 recipes that we would serve at a holiday gathering. From exciting appetizers to healthy sides, an assortment of desserts, and even breakfasts, this list has got you covered!
Click on each hyperlinked title or photo to take you to the full recipe
Appetizer / Starter
Kabocha Hummus Bowl with Balsamic Glazed Brussel Sprout Dippers
Served in a whole roasted pumpkin, this dip has stunning presentation. The roasted brussel sprout dippers will entice your guests to dig into this appetizer.
“Wildest Dreams” Mango Salsa Boats
With fresh cranberries scented with orange and brought to life with cilantro, this zingy salsa will whet your guests’ appetite for the main course ahead of them! You could also choose to serve bite-sized portions on crackers like in our photos.
Savoury Sides
Cheesy Caramelized Onion, Pesto, and Sundried Tomato Buns
A recreation of a warm, fluffy bun I had at my favourite bakery, these buns pack an explosion of flavours. These would also be lovely for breakfast or brunch.
“Out of the Woods” Delicata & Kale Farro
A bit of whole grains and a whole lotta veg and flavour, this is an ideal side dish that will pair with any main course. It’s also a filling option for vegan dinners.
Sweet Endings
Dainty gluten free shortbread stuffed with chestnut spread and coconut whipped cream, just like the French pastry.
“Welcome to New York” Cheesecake Dark Chocolate Cookies
Soft-baked chocolate cookies made with Nutella and stuffed with homemade cheesecake chips. A wonderful gluten free choice for gifts or cookie exchanges.
Super Easy, Super Healthy Ferrero Rocher
The title says it all; make your own vegan and gluten free versions of this classic hazelnutty chocolate confection. Finding out Ferrero Rochers were actually filled with Nutella was epic, but this is ten times more epic.
Gluten Free Chocolate Orange Cookies
Toast plenty of hazelnuts to make both Ferrero Rochers and these Chocolate Orange Cookies. Essentially made from just nuts and dates, you can actually eat these for breakfast.
This one is a show stopper. A two-inch thick pie layered with luscious vegan caramel, chocolate ganache, and toasted pecans. The almond coconut macaroon-like crust is to die for. You can’t go wrong with this one.
Parmesan Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites
This cookie plays on the contrast of salty and sweet in an unexpected pairing: cheese and chocolate. But trust on this one! Santa would approve of this sophisticated cookie too.
Healthified Tiramisu or Vegan Tiramisu Cheesecake
Everyone loves this classic dessert. We’ve got two made-from-scratch version for you: a lightened up version and a vegan “cheesecake”. We’ll made one for our own Christmas Party.
Festive Breakfasts
(talk about gingerbread)
Naughty and Nice Caffeinated & Caramelized Banana Bread
I put Bailey’s, espresso, chocolate, and caramelized bananas in your breakfast. Ooh, so naughty. Yet it’s gluten free and contains no added sugar! Santa is scratching his head too.
Pecan Crumble-topped Sweet Potato Scones
Not sure what to do with all that leftover roasted sweet potato? Transform them into the most melt-in-your-mouth, tender, delicious gluten free scones for breakfast on Boxing Day!
Hope everyone has a very merry Christmas! We’ll be doing another recipe round up before New Year’s on the best Radiant Rachels recipes of 2014, so keep an eye out!
Leave a Reply