When the holiday season arrives, you might begin planning what you're going to make for your Christmas dinner. If you don't want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen, there are a few dishes that are easy to make and that can give your table a festive appearance and taste.
Main Meat
Ham is a traditional meat to prepare for your holiday dinner. You can bake a whole ham or cut slices to bake. You could also fry ham slices. Your whole ham could have glaze on top that's made of pineapple or other ingredients so that it has a delicious flavor. Turkey is another meat that is commonly prepared for Christmas and can be adorned with cranberries and various herbs so that you have a tasty and festive centerpiece for your table.
Macaroni and Cheese
You can't go wrong with this comfort food for your Christmas dinner. This is a side dish that most people will enjoy, which means that you'll satisfy the appetites of children and adults without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. You can prepare your dish and bake it with added cheese on top for a hearty side.
Salad
If you're looking for a festive appetizer to serve before your main holiday dinner, then consider a pear and greens salad. This dish features fresh pears that are thinly sliced, chopped walnuts, your favorite kind of cheese, and any greens that you like. Add some color with fresh cranberries.
Mashed Potatoes
Another side dish that most guests will enjoy is mashed potatoes. If you don't have a lot of time to prepare your dinner, then consider using instant potatoes. However, fresh potatoes deliver a creamier consistency, especially if you mash them with whipping cream and butter. Season to taste, and top with fresh herbs.
Green Dishes
There are a few side dishes that can bring out the green side of the holiday season. One is roasted asparagus. All you need is a drizzle of olive oil and a little salt. Green beans are delicious to serve as well and only need a few ingredients to complete the recipe including butter, salt, and pepper.
Dessert
End your dinner with a festive red velvet cake with cream cheese icing or a fresh apple pie. You can make the pie a bit more elegant by turning it into an apple crisp with a buttery crumble and vanilla ice cream on top.
