Festive Menu Inspiration
Yes, the Christmas rush has officially stepped up a notch: what was the general end-of-year-busy has just become the crazy-Christmas-rush. And with all that hustle and bustle, shopping, preparing and gift-wrapping, it’s easy to overlook the finer details of your own festive menu.
If you’re struggling to get your head around your holiday meals, don’t panic. And don’t beat yourself up: you’re human and we all have limits, that’s why we’re taking a moment to help you out with some of our best tips for a successful Christmas Feast!
Christmas is all about family and friends. And if there’s anything that brings people together, it’s food. Good, honest food.
Hosting at home? What does it take to create and serve a meal that your family and friends will truly enjoy?
Let’s find out:
- Amazing Appetizers
Sometimes the biggest challenge is just getting started! But kicking off with a mouthwatering appetizer and a bottle or two of good wine is sure to get your party started on the right foot!
Whether you’re after inspiration for a formal dinner party or a casual help-yourself buffet style starter, we’ve got you covered.
Who doesn’t love seasonal flatbreads? They’re easy to make, easy to serve and dangerously easy to eat! There’s a flatbread to suit every palate, and they’re a great way to combine tradition with seasonal produce, and celebrate our heritage.
Baked brie is a superb starter that can be served with crackers, garlic bread or sliced french stick. And for those of us who love to get as much done as possible before our guests arrive, this flavor-bomb can be prepared ahead of time!
Antipasto boards; stuffed mushrooms; devilled eggs; meatball kebabs; wantons; candied nuts… does the list ever end?
Hooked on seafood? These amazing seafood appetizers are sure to steal the show!
- Magical Mains (with a Difference)
Christmas dinner mains are often easier to decide on: whether you’re following family traditions or simply serving guests what you love most, you’ve probably got this one sorted.
But, if you’re tired of the classic turkey roast or looking for another tasty side dish, we’ve pulled together a few ideas that offer some mighty tasty options:
Salmon is always a show-stopper. And this sweet and sour recipe really steals the limelight! Served with a simple side salad, this is one recipe your friends will be asking you for!
Planning a barbeque banquet? You’ve probably got your own favorite way to cook steak, but we’ve found you a few fresh steak recipes to chew over too…
From crispy roast potatoes to spicy gravy and salad, there’s no shortage of recipes for side dishes. Sometimes a picture is all you need to get you thinking, so check out this gallery on Delish.
- Perfect Pudding
We’re taking a sneaky vote here and wondering who else thinks pudding is the best part of the meal? If you answered yes, let’s get started!
If you’re trying your hand at the conventional Christmas pudding, we suggest you check out this recipe from one of Australia’s favorite chefs, Maggie Beer! Maggie’s Christmas Pudding with Cumquat Brandy Butter is everything (and more) you ever wanted: sweet, sticky, moist, rich… just downright delicious!
Are you following the Aussie tradition and serving pavlova smothered with cream and loaded with seasonal berries or tropical fruits?
Maybe chocolate is your thing: decadent, dark and irresistible: Julie Goodwin’s chocolate trifle recipe is the ultimate indulgence and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Need a Hand?
Running out of time to shop, prep and organize? Still got cleaning to do, bedrooms to prepare and gifts to wrap? Don’t let yourself fall into the trap of being so busy you can’t enjoy this Christmas!
If you’re feeling stressed or time poor, let someone else lend a hand: Melbourne is home to some of the world’s finest catering companies who can provide one or more of your dinner courses this Christmas.
Whether it’s a starter, a main or a dessert you’re needing, Social Catering Co. in Thornbury is your go-to for delicious, homestyle food that is guaranteed to make your celebration a success. From appetizers to desserts, and everything in between, the menus offered by Social Catering Co are all-inclusive and simply irresistible!
Not a Fan of Hosting at Home?
If you truly want a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas Day, why not let someone else do the hard yards while you spend time with your family and friends?
Bring your crew together over Christmas lunch at one of the many amazing restaurants we have in the North (if they still have availability!). Check out our article “Why the Northside is the Best Side” for some of our favourites.
From the team at Love & Co, all the best for a Merry Christmas and have a Happy and Safe New Year!
Stunning image by Beeline Design.