Christmas Vacation Ideas: Which Trip Should I Take?
You may think you know your perfect Christmas vacation, but this quiz might give you a whole new idea.
By BrainFall Staff - Updated: April 30, 2024
On Christmas Day every single year, people across the world gather together and enjoy a special holiday meal. The most commonly eaten meal in the U.S. and many other English-speaking countries consists of tender turkey, stuffing, brussels sprouts, and roasted potatoes. But perhaps you’re wondering if you want to mix it up this year? Luckily, Christmas dinner ideas are surprisingly broad. After all, many, many countries have their own distinct Christmas dinner recipes that are somewhat different from what Americans consider to be the norm. There are also a number of twists on classic Christmas food ideas that can make the big meal into an extra special treat. This quiz works out if you would enjoy one of these options more than the typical turkey.
If you’re reading this, then the odds are that you’ve experienced many, many Christmases. It’s perfectly normal to have grown weary of the exact same Christmas dinner year in and year out. But with a few new ingredients, you can easily take your holiday table to the next level. Take this quiz to find out which dinner ideas have the chance to outrank turkey as your Christmas dinner of choice.
Christmas dinner ideas
It's hard to make the best Christmas dinner if you make the exact same thing every single year. After all, variety is the spice of life. But it's also true that Christmas is supposed to be the time for tradition. If you're trying to decide between preparing a typical Christmas table or a more original Christmas menu, then this quiz is for you.
There are so many unique ideas to try out for Christmas dinner. One great way to customize your menu is to include some new side dishes. From green beans with parmesan cheese to butternut squash with maple syrup, herbs, and creamy goat cheese, there are so many delicious ideas to try.
Holiday recipes come in all shapes and sizes. And they're highly customizable. Just look at the Christmas dinner menu of a fancy restaurant. Most places will give customers a number of options with all the flavors evoking Christmas in different ways. At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you enjoy good food. This quiz will help you determine exactly what that means for you and your family. And, of course, Merry Christmas to all of you at home!
Christmas Dinner Ideas: What Should I Cook for Christmas?
Are you ready to don your apron and spread some serious Christmas cheer around the dinner table? We all know that come December 25th, the spotlight isn't just on the twinkling lights and the shinily wrapped presents under the tree. Oh no, it's all about the main event — that glorious Christmas dinner that has family members secretly loosening their belts under the table. Let's be honest, we've all been patiently waiting for this feast all year, and the pressure to deliver a spread worthy of Santa's approval is real!
But let's not spiral into a tinsel-tangled panic. Whether you're a seasoned kitchen elf or a first-time turkey wrangler, we've got the sleigh-load of Christmas dinner ideas to help you nail the big day. From savory roasts that'll have the carnivores at the table singing carols of joy, to delectable sides that might just steal the show — we've brainstormed so you don't have to. And for those of you who want to keep it low-key but still super festive, our lineup includes some easy Christmas dinner options that will let you spend less time in the kitchen and more time rockin' around the Christmas tree. Trust us, our Christmas dinner game is as strong as our ugly sweater game — and that's saying something!
Main Attraction: The Christmas Centerpiece
Let's face it, folks, the main dish at any Christmas dinner is more than just food—it's the crown jewel, the pièce de résistance, the thing that'll get Aunt Linda talking more about your cooking skills than your single status this year. Trust us, we've been there. So, let's dive—or should we say carve—into the heart of your Christmas feast with these centerpiece ideas that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Roasting the Perfect Turkey
Roasting a turkey is practically a Christmas rite of passage, and there's a fine art to getting that skin perfectly crispy while keeping the inside juicy enough to make your taste buds do the tango. Start with a good brine and don't skimp on the gravy, because let's be real, gravy is the unsung hero of the turkey world.
Glorious Ham Creations
If your Christmas spirit is saying "ham it up!" then a glazed ham deserves center stage on your table. We're not talking about a simple glaze; oh no, we're talking a mouth-watering, sticky, sweet concoction that'll stick to your ribs in the best possible way. Think brown sugar, honey, maybe even a dash of bourbon if you're feeling adventurous. A slow cooker can keep it gloriously juicy.
Beef Wellington: A Festive Showstopper
For those looking to deck the halls with something a tad more posh, Beef Wellington is like the top hat at a fancy ball. It's beef, it's pastry, it's mushrooms - oh my! It may seem as challenging as untangling last year's Christmas lights, but the result is a masterpiece that'll have your guests loosening their belt buckles with reverence.
Vegetarian and Vegan Wonders
Do you hear what we hear? It's the sound of all the vegetarians and vegans at the table cheering because we haven't forgotten about you! A vegetarian or vegan Christmas dinner can be just as thrilling without the turkey or ham. Impress with a majestic stuffed squash or a savory nut roast that'll make even the most devout carnivores consider the veggie life.
So, my culinary comrades, whether you're carving a roast turkey worthy of a Norman Rockwell painting, serving up a prime rib that's as tender as Santa's heart, or offering a vegetarian christmas dinner that's as colorful as a string of Christmas lights, remember that the main attraction of your Christmas feast is where we show our love, our creativity, and sometimes, our secret desire to outdo the other siblings. Let's make this Christmas menu one to remember!
Sides and More: The Unsung Heroes of the Holidays
With our aprons tied and spatulas ready, let's not forget that Christmas dinner is made magnificent by those scrumptious sidekicks that hug our main dish like a warm, fuzzy scarf. From creamy casseroles that make our hearts sing to veggies that add a pop of color to the holiday spread, we've got the lowdown on how to elevate your festive feast.
Decadent Potatoes and Veggies
- Roasted Baby Potatoes: Tossed in olive oil, sprinkled with herbs like rosemary and thyme, these little beauts are roasted until golden.
- Green Bean Casserole: The classic dish that combines green beans with creamy mushrooms and crispy onions.
- Honey Roasted Carrots: They're sweet, they're roasted, they're glazed with honey – 'nough said.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Shaved parmesan and crunchy nuts for that finishing touch? Yes, please!
Casserole Corner
- Sweet Potato Casserole: A touch of cinnamon and a sprinkle of love go into this comfort food staple.
- Lasagna: Layer upon layer of pasta, robust marinara, and gooey cheese – because who said it's just for Sundays?
- Manicotti: These pasta tubes stuffed with ricotta and spinach are a hug for your taste buds.
Festive Salads and Appetizers
- Christmas Salad: Mixed greens decked with goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and a balsamic glaze. It's like a wreath, but edible.
- Appetizers: Think mini tarts that burst with flavor or stuffed mushrooms that practically pop with festive joy.
Indulgent Dips and Cheese Delights
- Cheese Boards: A cheese to please every palate, from brie to gouda, sprinkled with sprigs of basil or sage. It's the gift that keeps on giving.
- Creamed Spinach: A rich and creamy dip that is totally acceptable to eat by the spoonful (we won't tell).
