Your holiday courses don't have to be routine. Instead, pull out all the stops with a nontraditional Christmas dinner. Whether your family loves seafood, poultry or no meat at all, set truly dazzling dishes in the center of the table this year.
1/50
Cornish Game Hens
From the Recipe Creator:
Instead of a turkey or a big roast, why not serve individual Cornish game hens for the holidays? They cook in a fraction of the time and they're guaranteed to impress all your guests. —Shannon Roum, Cudahy, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 592 calories, 39g fat (16g saturated fat), 199mg cholesterol, 474mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 49g protein.
Tired of the traditional bird? Cornish game hens bring all the luxe of a roasted bird to the Christmas table without having everyone eat more turkey. These birds are so tiny that everyone can have their own!
2/50
Eggplant Rollatini
From the Recipe Creator:
These authentic Italian eggplant roll-ups can take some time to prepare, but the end result is restaurant-quality. Your family will request this recipe time and again. —Nancy Sousley, Lafayette, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
3 roll-ups: 726 calories, 48g fat (15g saturated fat), 181mg cholesterol, 3182mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 7g fiber), 35g protein.
Eggplant rollatini is the perfect combination of familiar, special-occasion and unexpected. Everyone will love this dish for Christmas dinner. Even kids won’t mind that they’re eating eggplant. When fried, rolled with cheese and covered in tomato sauce, it’s so darn delicious.
3/50
Maple Miso Sweet Potato Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe takes a beloved holiday side dish and gives it a savory twist. —Sara Schwabe, Bloomington, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 386 calories, 15g fat (7g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 383mg sodium, 60g carbohydrate (32g sugars, 6g fiber), 5g protein.
This sweet potato casserole is all grown up. Thanks to miso, tahini, maple syrup, rice vinegar and a few warming spices, this dish takes on an umami, nutty, earthy flavor that’s so much more lively than that of the average casserole.
4/50
Root Beer-Glazed Ham
From the Recipe Creator:
For a unique spin on the traditional glazed ham recipe, try this southern specialty where the secret ingredient is root beer! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
6 ounce cooked ham: 338 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 2097mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 0 fiber), 38g protein.
Did you ever think you’d be cooking with root beer on Christmas? There are a lot of benefits to using it for the glaze on a ham. It creates the sticky caramelized outside, imparts all its cozy warming spices and even tenderizes the ham thanks to the pop’s acids.
5/50
Glazed Marsala Carrots with Hazelnuts
From the Recipe Creator:
This makes an elegant side dish for company and is easy enough to make when you want to serve something special on a weeknight. Marsala wine makes it so deliciously different and unlike any other carrot recipe you've tasted. —Barbara Morris, South Amboy, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 269 calories, 15g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 463mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 4g fiber), 4g protein.
Between the marsala wine and hazelnuts, these glazed carrots have plenty of nutty-sweet flavors. Don’t forget to top them with parsley for a fresh flavor and nice pop of color!
6/50
Naughty but Nice Cocktail
From the Recipe Creator:
This sweet, tart and lightly spiced cocktail is perfect for serving at any holiday get-together. —Susan Bronson, Rhinelander, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cocktail: 290 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (40g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
Christmas cocktails are usually sweet affairs, but not here. The bourbon and spicy ginger syrup are a little naughty, while orange juice and cranberry juice keep it nice.
7/50
French Quarter Cheese Spread
From the Recipe Creator:
Topped with toasty pecans, this sweet-and-savory cheese ball makes a festive hostess gift for holiday parties. It’s always a hit. There’s never anything left over, and everyone asks for the recipe. At home, make it ahead of time for convenience, then bring it to room temp and serve. —Heidi Blaine Hadburg, Safety Harbor, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 280 calories, 26g fat (11g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 138mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
Is it just my holidays, or is there always some sort of cheese ball or spread on the appetizer table? This French Quarter cheese spread is a lot more fun than the average—just like New Orleans! The onion and garlic cream cheese base is topped with a pecan brown sugar sauce spiced with zippy mustard and umami-rich Worcestershire.
8/50
Duck with Orange Hazelnut Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
For over 60 years, this elegant entree has graced my family’s holiday table. The zesty stuffing with its nice nutty crunch complements the slices of moist duck, while the hint of orange in the gravy sets it apart. —Donna Smith, Fairport, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 973 calories, 73g fat (20g saturated fat), 207mg cholesterol, 1452mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 5g fiber), 45g protein.
Duck is such a rich and subtly sweet alternative to turkey. This recipe roasts the duck with all sorts of seasonal wintery ingredients like oranges, nutmeg, thyme, hazelnuts and apples.
9/50
Sourdough, Sausage and Blueberry Dressing
From the Recipe Creator:
I was looking in my pantry for raisins to make a dressing just like my mom's, but I was out. Then I spied a bag of dried blueberries and thought, Why not? Michigan is known for its blueberries, second only to cherries, so this is a nod to my former home state. —Teri Schloessmann, Tulsa, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 290 calories, 19g fat (8g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 581mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.
This is the ultimate sweet-and-salty side dish and a must-try for blueberry lovers. Chunks of good sourdough make the base. Sausages and vegetables add the savory component. A myriad of fresh herbs add an earthy flavor. And dried blueberries, fresh blueberries, blueberry cheese and blueberry schnapps create all the tart sweetness. I adore this unique take on the classic stuffing.
10/50
Creamy Celery Root and Pearl Onions
From the Recipe Creator:
I have made creamed onions for several recent Thanksgivings and wanted to change the recipe, so I decided to add celery root. Celery root is perfect with the onions, and the creamy sauce is addicting! —Tina Mirilovich, Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 250 calories, 21g fat (13g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 379mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.
Give green beans and potatoes a rest this year. Celery root and pearl onions bring a whole new vegetable vibe to the Christmas dinner table, and their creamy sauce makes every bite out-of-this-world good. Don’t forget to add the parsley—this dish needs that pop of color!
11/50
Bourbon Candied Bacon Deviled Eggs
From the Recipe Creator:
At our house, it doesn’t get any better than deviled eggs with bacon—bourbon candied bacon, that is. See if you can resist them. We can’t. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed egg half: 107 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 97mg cholesterol, 142mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
Even if you’re trying to put together a nontraditional Christmas dinner, it’s hard to resist the pull of deviled eggs. But you can still put a spin on the classic by including bits of bacon that have been caramelized with brown sugar, Dijon mustard and maple syrup.
12/50
Tiramisu Martini
From the Recipe Creator:
This tiramisu martini is the perfect compromise when you can't decide between an after-dinner drink or a sweet treat for dessert. If you chill the martini glass in the freezer for 5 to 10 minutes before serving your cocktail, your cocktail will stay colder for longer. —Susan Bronson, Rhinelander, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cocktail: 746 calories, 21g fat (13g saturated fat), 84mg cholesterol, 52mg sodium, 66g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
Modern spins on tiramisu and martinis went viral this year. Here, we combine the two classics into one drink. I have to say, the chocolaty-coffee goodness is perfect for enjoying with all your nontraditional Christmas desserts.
13/50
Celery Gratin
From the Recipe Creator:
This celery gratin was a dish our family came to love. My grandmother knew how to create a dish out of just a few simple ingredients. —David Ross, Spokane Valley, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 331 calories, 27g fat (17g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 390mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
If you’re looking for an au gratin potato spin, you’ve found it. We trade the heavy potato for humble, aromatic celery but keep all the rich, creamy Mornay sauce. The bread crumb topping is a must for texture!
14/50
Beer-Cheese Green Bean Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Being from Wisconsin, where beer, cheese and snap beans abound, I thought I'd try a local spin on a beloved casserole. My mom deemed this even better than the traditional recipe. One point to America's dairyland! —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 235 calories, 15g fat (9g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 410mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 9g protein.
For too long, beer cheese has been subjected to a warm appetizer dip only. Here, we found a new use for it: smothering holiday green beans for a fresh take on the classic green bean casserole.
15/50
Air-Fryer Beets with Orange Gremolata and Goat Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
My grandma always grew beets and then pickled or canned them, but I prefer to prepare them differently. These roasted beets with fresh herbs and tangy goat cheese are wonderful all year round. —Courtney Archibeque, Greeley, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 49 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 157mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
If you’re not usually a fan of beets, the goat cheese crumbles and refreshing orange gremolata will change your mind. Plus, the two different-colored beets and toppings add so much color to the Christmas table.
16/50
Roasted Veggie Strudel
From the Recipe Creator:
If you’re cooking for vegetarians this holiday, why not pull out the stops with this gorgeous main? Roasted Brussels sprouts and potatoes go so well with bacon and Brie in my shortcut strudel. I leave the potato skin on for extra flavor and texture. —Carole Holt, Mendota Heights, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 532 calories, 35g fat (12g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 1035mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 18g protein.
All you have to do is omit the bacon from this roasted vegetable strudel recipe and you have a gorgeous vegetarian main for the Christmas dinner table. Refrigerated crescent roll dough makes this so easy!
17/50
Stuffed Mushrooms with Crabmeat
From the Recipe Creator:
These tender crab-stuffed mushrooms with their crispy golden topping are always popular at parties! The crab filling is a delicious special-occasion treat. Serve them while they're warm. —Nancy Aiello, Bloomery, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed mushroom: 51 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 81mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
This Christmas appetizer is brimming with so much flavor that I worry people will fill up on it before the main event. Each roasted mushroom is filled with sweet crabmeat sitting in a creamy sauce with a crunchy bread crumb topping. Yum.
18/50
Orange Pomegranate Salmon
From the Recipe Creator:
A colorful, festive salmon dish makes an impressive addition to your holiday table—and it is as delicious as it is beautiful. What will no one guess? How easy it is to cook. I serve this with roasted baby potatoes and asparagus for a showstopping meal that is wonderful for special occasions. —Thomas Faglon, Somerset, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked salmon: 307 calories, 19g fat (3g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 274mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1/2 fruit.
While I love holiday food, most of it is very heavy and, not to mention, beige. This orange pomegranate salmon combats that, filling the table with a lean protein in a dish that has no shortage of color. Best of all, it’s still cozy and wintery!
19/50
Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
After making little bacon-wrapped sausages for years, I needed a change! I had an extra sweet potato and half a package of bacon on hand, so I put on my thinking cap and came up with this treat. —Kelly Williams, Forked River, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 60 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 136mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
If your family is used to bacon-wrapped dates as a Christmas appetizer, swap in sweet potatoes for the dates for a little twist without veering too far. These would be so good dipped in honey mustard or aioli.
20/50
Beef Osso Buco
From the Recipe Creator:
Treat holiday guests to elegant comfort food at its best. Our osso buco beef boasts a thick, savory sauce complemented by the addition of gremolata, a chopped herb condiment made with lemon zest, garlic and parsley. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 shank with 1 cup sauce and 4 teaspoons gremolata: 398 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 112mg cholesterol, 640mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 47g protein.
I don’t know about you, but this is my kind of Christmas dinner main. I love that it’s all done in the Crockpot, too, so you can let it braise for seven to nine hours while preparing all your other nontraditional Christmas dinner recipes.
21/50
Smoky Garlic Mashed Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
These garlic mashed potatoes have an additional, unexpected smoky flavor from the smoked paprika and the smoked Gouda cheese. Your guests will be surprised and delighted at the variation! —Margaret Knoebel, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 436 calories, 28g fat (17g saturated fat), 79mg cholesterol, 608mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 10g protein.
No, you don’t need a smoker to make these unique mashed potatoes. Their smokiness comes from roasted garlic, smoked Gouda and smoked paprika. No liquid smoke required!
22/50
Cheesy Broccoli au Gratin
From the Recipe Creator:
Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this comforting broccoli dish. Covered in a blend of sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan, it also gets extra flavor from onions, ground mustard and cayenne pepper. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 215 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 588mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
Here’s a genius way to sneak a green vegetable on the table! Humble broccoli turns luxe au gratin-style with a cheesy sauce and crunchy bread crumb topping.
23/50
Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball
From the Recipe Creator:
I made this cheese ball for a football party a few years ago, thinking that bacon makes everything tastier. I had rave reviews from my friends, so I made it for a family get-together and my two little nephews couldn't get enough of the cheese ball. Now, every time I see them, they expect me to bring this cheese ball—no matter the occasion. —Jodi Stefanik, Blacklick, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 172 calories, 15g fat (8g saturated fat), 42mg cholesterol, 480mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 7g protein.
The cheese ball is a coveted Christmas appetizer. If yours is becoming a bit monotonous, this bacon ranch-flavored one really shakes things up.
24/50
Wild Rice-Stuffed Pork Loin
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe features wild rice and apricot stuffing tucked inside a tender pork roast. —Kim Rubner, Worthington, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 436 calories, 20g fat (7g saturated fat), 109mg cholesterol, 547mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 3g fiber), 41g protein.
If you’re replacing the Christmas ham or roast turkey, you have big shoes to fill in the presentation department. With its bacon-wrapped exterior and beautiful spiral, this stuffed pork loin lives up to the job.
25/50
Bola-Bola
From the Recipe Creator:
Bola-bola (Filipino-style meatballs) can be served as an appetizer or stirred into soup. Some versions of this recipe roll the meatballs in flour or bread crumbs before frying for a crisp coating. Serve plain or with a dipping sauce. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 meatball: 49 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 64mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
These Filipino pork meatballs are a cannot-resist appetizer piled high at parties. They’re normally served alongside banana ketchup, but you can use other spicy-sweet condiments.
26/50
Seafood-Stuffed Shells
From the Recipe Creator:
Inspired by my love of lasagna, pasta shells and seafood, I created this recipe that's easy to make but special enough to serve company. I serve it with garlic bread and a salad. —Katie P. Sloan, Charlotte, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
3 stuffed shells: 448 calories, 23g fat (11g saturated fat), 148mg cholesterol, 710mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 29g protein.
Stuffed with shrimp and crabmeat and baked in a velvety Parmesan cheese sauce, seafood stuffed shells are an unexpected seafood recipe for Christmas. Stuffed shells take a little prep work, but this is a great make-ahead dish. Then, it’s ready to pop into the oven on the day of serving.
27/50
Mushroom-Stuffed Flank Steak Roll
From the Recipe Creator:
My daughter and her family, who live in Hong Kong, love to make my flank steak because it reminds them of home. —Ethel Klyasheff, Granite City, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounces cooked beef with stuffing: 358 calories, 16g fat (8g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 1345mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 2g fiber), 28g protein.
Every bite of this mushroom-stuffed flank steak is packed with sweet and umami flavors. It’s just as much fun to make as it is to eat. Also, flank steak is a fairly inexpensive cut of beef, so it’s perfect for anyone looking for an economical dish this year.
28/50
German Red Cabbage
From the Recipe Creator:
Sunday afternoons were a time for family gatherings when I was a kid. While the uncles played cards, the aunts made treats such as this traditional German red cabbage recipe. —Jeannette Heim, Dunlap, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 64 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 23mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
This vinegary side reminds me so much of the purpose of cranberry sauce: to cut the fatty richness of the other dishes and bring in a new, tangy, refreshing component (and a bit of color) to the plate. For anyone looking for a cranberry sauce swap this year, German red cabbage is it!
29/50
Mexican Champurrado
From the Recipe Creator:
Champurrado holds a special place in Mexican culture, often enjoyed during festive celebrations like Dia de los Muertos and Las Posadas, on chilly mornings or as an evening treat. The aroma of rich chocolate and the soothing, warm texture of masa harina envelop the senses in every sip. —Ericka Sanchez, La Habra, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 296 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 61mg sodium, 66g carbohydrate (46g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
Champurrado is a traditional drink for Dia de los Muertos and the season of Guadalupe-Reyes, the latter extending from December 12th to January 6th. It’s a warming drink made from cocoa, masa harina and a few other ingredients, typically served with tamales and churros.
30/50
Bacon, Blue Cheese & Fig Bruschetta
From the Recipe Creator:
This is my decadent, robust version of bruschetta. I like to serve it at parties, especially on New Year’s or other winter holidays. If you don’t like blue cheese, you can substitute feta or goat cheese. —Kristyne Mcdougle Walter, Lorain, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 83 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 139mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
While everyone loves bruschetta, its tomato-basil topping uses summer produce. Here’s a winterized version using in-season figs, plus rich, salty blue cheese and bacon.
31/50
Hazelnut Liqueur Recipe
From the Recipe Creator:
Real hazelnuts, cacao nibs, vanilla beans and two types of alcohol make this homemade hazelnut liquor worth the effort. Keep it on the bar shelf at home or tie a ribbon around the bottle for a DIY holiday gift! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 ounces: 74 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 4g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
I honestly can’t think of anything more classy than homemade hazelnut liquor sitting on your bar cart, waiting to be poured on Christmas Eve or Day. Hazelnuts are a very wintery nut, so it’s a great pairing for all your Christmas desserts.
32/50
Scalloped Butternut Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
Not only is this winning recipe delicious, it has just five hardworking ingredients. I make it at least once a month and receive nothing but compliments every time. If you don't have heavy cream, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk. —Dee James, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 659 calories, 53g fat (33g saturated fat), 174mg cholesterol, 1158mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 5g fiber), 27g protein.
Scalloped potatoes have met their match with this twist on the classic. Butternut squash is sweeter than spuds, so it’s a really nice vegetable pairing with nutty Gruyere.
33/50
Beef Tenderloin with Pomegranate Chutney
From the Recipe Creator:
When I want to show family and friends some culinary love, I roast a tenderloin and serve it with a sweet-tart pomegranate and apple chutney. —Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked meat with 1/4 cup chutney: 381 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 395mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 2g fiber), 37g protein.
So much flavor is packed into this beef tenderloin. The outside is coated in a mustard, brown sugar, thyme and rosemary glaze, then roasted and served with a homemade chutney made from pomegranates, apples, brandy, shallots and gingerroot.
34/50
Green Beans with Creamy Pistachio Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
I was asked to bring vegetables for a party and wasn’t feeling inspired until I remembered Mom served green beans with butter and evaporated milk. I love pistachios, so I added those instead of almonds. Everybody wanted the recipe, and I was really pleased—very little work and lots of happy family and friends! —Loretta Ouellette, Pompano Beach, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 177 calories, 14g fat (7g saturated fat), 32mg cholesterol, 365mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 5g protein.
Please, no more plain green beans this Christmas. A homemade pistachio sauce is so easy to make and takes this side dish above and beyond.
35/50
Cranberry Ricotta Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
To make light and airy gnocchi, work quickly and handle the dough as little as possible. You'll be pleased with the resulting pillowy dumplings. —Sally Sibthorpe, Shelby Township, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 411 calories, 30g fat (16g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 503mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein.
Here’s a vegetarian dish that the whole table will love. It’s hard to beat homemade gnocchi (although you can totally use store-bought) cooked fresh and tossed in a brown butter, sage and cranberry sauce.
36/50
Maple-Ginger Glazed Carrots
From the Recipe Creator:
I first made this dish for my family and friends one Thanksgiving. Not only are the carrots lovely on the table, they taste terrific too! —Jeannette Sabo, Lexington Park, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 83 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 168mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
Ready to trade in typical honey-glazed carrots? Maple syrup is a great swap for honey, and gingerroot punches up the zip and zing.
37/50
Stuffed Salmon
From the Recipe Creator:
You could get stuffed salmon from a big box store, but my fillets are loaded with flavor from crab, cream cheese and savory herbs. We love them. —Mary Cokenour, Monticello, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed fillet: 478 calories, 30g fat (8g saturated fat), 131mg cholesterol, 559mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 41g protein.
Talk about a showstopper! Each salmon fillet is stuffed with crabmeat, cream cheese and rice, then baked with dill on top. It’s a fancy, restaurant-quality meal that’s totally perfect and equally unexpected for Christmas Day.
38/50
Mushroom Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
This meatless casserole is one of my all-time favorites. Loaded with mushrooms and covered in a rich sauce, it's a homestyle side dish that will have everyone scooping up seconds. —Rosemary Janz, Concord, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 406 calories, 35g fat (19g saturated fat), 103mg cholesterol, 634mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
I can’t tell what is the best part of this mushroom casserole. Is it the creamy umami mushroom base or the topping made from crushed butter crackers and paprika? I’m not sure, but I’m willing to eat a bowlful or two to help myself decide.
39/50
Herb-Stuffed Pork Loin
From the Recipe Creator:
This stunning pork roast is one of my favorite recipes when I’m entertaining company. It’s especially good with garden-fresh herbs, but dried ones work nicely as well. —Michele Montgomery, Lethbridge, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked pork: 199 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 372mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate, 1g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
Whenever this many herbs are involved, I can’t help but fall in love with the dish. It doesn’t help that zingy mustard and fresh garlic make the pork loin even more savory and flavorful.
40/50
Spiced Pearl Couscous with Pine Nuts
From the Recipe Creator:
This side dish is great for entertaining, as you can prepare the topping ahead of time and the couscous takes only minutes. Try adding a cup of drained and rinsed garbanzo beans to boost the protein! —Cindy Beberman, Orland Park, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 414 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 449mg sodium, 63g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 10g protein.
For anyone cooking a beautiful piece of lamb for Christmas dinner, I highly recommend this spiced couscous. This humble side dish packs so much flavor with four different spices, fresh mint and cilantro, dried currants, pine nuts and a hint of lemon, because why not?
41/50
Cranberry-Fig Goat Cheese Crostini
From the Recipe Creator:
The blend of flavors in the crostini makes an absolutely scrumptious appetizer. —Barbara Estabrook, Rhinelander, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 crostini: 109 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 135mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
If guests are standing in the kitchen chomping at the bit but dinner is still a few hours away, these crostinis will satisfy. The tangy goat cheese complements the tart-sweet cranberry fig topping.
42/50
Fondant Potatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Roasted potatoes are delicious, but fondant potatoes are exquisite! The trick to the meltingly soft insides is a quick simmer in chicken stock during the roasting process. —Nancy Mock, Southbridge, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 259 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 782mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein.
Also known as melting potatoes, fondant potatoes are creamy-on-the-inside, crispy-on-the-outside pieces of absolute joy. You’ll never want au gratin potatoes again.
43/50
Meatballs with Chimichurri Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
This South American condiment, featuring fresh cilantro and parsley, is more than just a sauce for tossing with meatballs. You’ll want plenty for extra dipping. —Amy Chase, Vanderhoof, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1 meatball with about 2 teaspoons sauce: 130 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 318mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
Precooked meatballs make this appetizer so easy to pull together as soon as guests arrive. The chimichurri sauce is bright, refreshing and perfect for dipping. Feel free to use vegan meatballs as needed!
44/50
Shrimp-Stuffed Flounder
From the Recipe Creator:
The delicious shrimp-herb stuffing makes this fish recipe special enough for company. But it really isn’t hard to make, and since our family enjoys fish, we eat it often. —Marie Forte, Raritan, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed fillet: 357 calories, 23g fat (14g saturated fat), 187mg cholesterol, 476mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 28g protein.
While it looks complicated and, therefore, feels special enough to serve for Christmas dinner, no one has to know that shrimp-stuffed flounder took you under an hour to prepare. The lemon butter sauce marries all the flavors together perfectly.
45/50
Oyster Dressing
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe came from my mother. She made it every Thanksgiving for my father, who absolutely loved it. —Amy Daniels, Brodhead, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 228 calories, 15g fat (8g saturated fat), 106mg cholesterol, 495mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
Anyone who loves seafood dishes on Christmas will love this creative take on classic stuffing. Fresh oysters are best, but pre-shucked oysters in the refrigerated section can be used in a pinch. Just leave the canned oysters on the shelf.
46/50
Roast Chicken with Creole Stuffing
From the Recipe Creator:
I've used this recipe ever since I roasted my first chicken. Our whole family looks forward to it. The combination of shrimp, sausage, ham, vegetables and seasonings makes the stuffing unique and delicious.
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 472 calories, 24g fat (6g saturated fat), 106mg cholesterol, 766mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 36g protein.
This recipe is so much more than just a roast chicken. In fact, the stuffing is the major draw! Expect to feast on a stuffing made from brown rice, sausage, ham, red and green peppers, tomatoes and a whole host of spicy, earthy seasonings.
47/50
Savory Winter Squash Pie
From the Recipe Creator:
Instead of using frozen winter squash, you can roast butternut or acorn squash until tender and then mash it before getting started on this recipe. The bacon roses are a fun garnish, but this winter squash pie can easily be made without them. —Erica Sinclair, Hamilton, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 245 calories, 14g fat (6g saturated fat), 113mg cholesterol, 428mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein.
Fair warning: This side will probably steal the spotlight from your main entree. The bacon roses are optional, but they’re totally worth a try, right?
48/50
Sweet Potato Tortellini with Hazelnut Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
For more formal dinners, this is an impressive vegetarian entree. Using wonton wrappers instead of fresh pasta dough makes homemade tortellini easier to prepare. —Charlene Chambers, Ormond Beach, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
9 tortellini with 2 tablespoons sauce: 662 calories, 34g fat (17g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 718mg sodium, 73g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 4g fiber), 17g protein.
Wonton wrappers, hazelnut liquor and dried cherries are just a few of the unexpected but totally delicious ingredients for this homemade pasta. Assemble and freeze the tortellini a few days before Christmas, then just boil the noodles and make the sauce the day of. Easy!
49/50
Turkey-Stuffed Acorn Squash
From the Recipe Creator:
For something a little different, why not present each guest with their own beautifully prepared squash, stuffed with all the flavors that make the holidays bright—turkey, dressing and cranberry sauce. This recipe makes it easy to make just as many servings as you need. —Cindy Romberg, Mississauga, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed acorn squash half: 502 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 875mg sodium, 73g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 9g fiber), 27g protein.
I love that this recipe includes all the holiday classics in one dish: cranberry sauce, turkey and stuffing. This is perfect for anyone who wants a bit of the classics but still a few nontraditional dishes too.
50/50
Red Pepper Cornmeal Souffle
From the Recipe Creator:
I use the vegetables from our garden in all my cooking. Dotted with parsley and red pepper, this souffle is a favorite. —Janet Eckhoff, Woodland, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 193 calories, 11g fat (7g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 427mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein.
As a former vegetarian, I can honestly say that I would’ve been psyched to eat something this impressive and delicious on Christmas Day. Even if there aren’t vegetarians at the table, a savory souffle is still a great side dish and a unique way to serve vegetables other than green beans, potatoes or carrots.
Nontraditional Christmas Dinner FAQS
How do I put together a nontraditional Christmas dinner menu?
There are two approaches to putting together a nontraditional Christmas dinner menu. The first is traditional with a twist, which is basically just introducing new ingredients or techniques into the classic Christmas dishes. That can look like swapping in root beer-glazed ham for the ham, exchanging the potatoes au gratin for fondant potatoes, or punching up the typical glazed carrots with maple and ginger.
The other approach to making a nontraditional (American) Christmas dinner menu is to introduce completely untraditional-to-you dishes that are still very cozy and warm for the winter season. Whether they’re cozy American dishes or warming international-inspired dishes, they’ll work great here! For example, your main dish can be seafood-stuffed shells or chicken tikka masala. Sides can include stuffed acorn squash, scallion pancakes, a cozy winter soup, Swedish meatballs, cabbage rolls, potato dumplings and so much more.
What unique Christmas dinner recipes can be made ahead?
Most of the unique Christmas dinner recipes in this list can be made ahead. Simply assemble them up to the point just before cooking or baking, and keep the dish tightly wrapped in storage wrap until you’re ready to cook and/or serve them. Ones I would avoid making ahead of time are deviled eggs and bacon-wrapped bites, as they’re best served the day they’re made. Also, anything with a fried component or bread crumb topping is best served fresh, as the breading can become soggy.
What alternative Christmas dinner ideas are still kid-friendly?
Alternative Christmas dinner ideas that are still kid-friendly are pasta dishes, poultry dishes, root beer-glazed ham, sausage and blueberry dressing, bacon-wrapped sweet potatoes and fondant potatoes. This is a good chance to upgrade their usual favorites by serving baked mac and cheese (maybe just avoid any funky cheeses), fettuccine Alfredo, homemade chicken strips, this genius ravioli casserole, and peanut butter and jelly thumbprints.
