Written by Soham Parmar
Edited by Mannat Malhan
Designed by Nabiha Khan
Published by Maryam Khan
Roast turkey, chicken pot pie, and mashed baked potatoes. These are all loved classic Christmas dishes. But have you ever thought about adding something a little different to your holiday table? Imagine a tender roast salmon, a creamy bean casserole, or a glass of spiced eggnog to sip while the snow falls outside. Every dish brings its own festive magic, waiting to make your Christmas dinner unforgettable. So, why not let your taste buds celebrate the season? Here are five dishes that bring warmth, flavour, and holiday cheer to every celebration, making your feast truly special.
Christmas Baked Salmon
Baked salmon is a tasty and festive dish that many people love for Christmas. Its flaky, tender texture and rich flavour make it a lighter alternative to heavier meats (such as turkey or steak), while still feeling special for the holidays. 
It pairs beautifully with winter herbs like rosemary and thyme, a drizzle of lemon, or a glaze of honey and mustard for a festive twist. Served hot from the oven, baked salmon is comforting, flavorful, and a dish that’s easy to enjoy alongside other holiday favourites. It’s simple, elegant, and perfect for anyone who wants something a little different on their Christmas dinner table.
Creamy Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is one of those classic dishes that instantly feels like a holiday. It’s a baked dish made with tender green beans mixed in a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with crispy fried onions that add a satisfying crunch to every bite. 
The combination of creamy sauce and fresh vegetables makes it comforting but not too heavy, which is why it has become a favourite at Christmas dinners alongside roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and other festive mains. While it started as a simple, convenient dish in the 1950s, it has since become a beloved tradition, appearing on holiday tables across the United States. Whether you make it the traditional way or add your own twist with extra cheese, fresh herbs, or additional toppings, green bean casserole brings both flavour and a sense of nostalgia.
Eggnog
Eggnog is a creamy, festive drink that has been a holiday tradition for centuries. Made with milk or cream, sugar, and whipped eggs, it’s often flavoured with nutmeg, cinnamon, and sometimes a splash of rum or brandy for adults. 
The result is a rich, smooth beverage that’s both sweet and slightly spiced, perfect for sipping by the fireplace or serving alongside a Christmas feast. Eggnog has roots in Europe, where it started as a warm, hearty drink for special occasions, and over time, it became a staple of holiday celebrations in the United States and beyond. Whether enjoyed cold or warm, with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top, eggnog brings a sense of nostalgia, indulgence, and festive cheer to the holidays. It’s a drink that’s hard to resist and instantly makes any Christmas gathering feel cozier and more celebratory.
Christmas Maple Glazed Ham
Maple-glazed ham is a classic holiday centrepiece that instantly feels festive. 
The ham is usually slow-roasted and brushed with a sweet, sticky glaze made from maple syrup, brown sugar, and sometimes a hint of mustard or spices. The result is a golden-brown, caramelized crust that contrasts perfectly with the tender, juicy meat inside. Served hot from the oven, it’s often accompanied by sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or green bean casserole, making it a complete and satisfying holiday meal. Its beautiful presentation makes maple-glazed ham a favourite for Christmas dinners, adding warmth and a sense of celebration to the table. Whether you’re serving it to a large family or a small gathering, this dish brings a comforting, festive touch that everyone remembers.
Christmas Pudding
Christmas pudding is a rich, fruity dessert that has been a staple of British holiday dinners for centuries. It’s made with a mix of dried fruits like raisins, currants, and sultanas, combined with breadcrumbs, spices, and often a touch of brandy or butter. Traditionally, the pudding is steamed for hours, which helps all the flavours blend and develop a deep, warm taste. Many families make it weeks in advance, so it becomes even more flavorful by Christmas. On Christmas Day, the pudding is served warm, sometimes with custard, cream, or brandy butter, and often flambéed with a splash of brandy for a dramatic, festive touch. Its dense, spiced sweetness makes it the perfect ending to a hearty holiday meal.
Bibliography
Beck, K. (2022, November 10). How Green Bean Casserole Became A Thanksgiving Staple. Tasting Table. https://www.tastingtable.com/1095849/how-green-bean-casserole-became-a-thanksgiving-staple/
Wikipedia Contributors. (2019, December 16). Eggnog. Wikipedia; Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eggnog
Classic Christmas pudding. (2006, December). BBC Good Food. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/classic-christmas-pudding Staff, B. (2024, December 6). A Christmas Pudding Recipe. British Heritage. https://britishheritage.com/art-culture/christmas-pudding-recipe.