Disclaimer: Our editors have used AI to create or enhance parts of this article and some images. All content has been fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy.
Planning the perfect Christmas dinner can feel like solving a puzzle, especially when you’re juggling the main course with all those essential side dishes. Between timing everything just right and making sure there’s enough variety to keep everyone happy, the holiday feast can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming – and let’s be honest, the sides are what really make the meal special.
That’s why I’ve put together these 23 Christmas side dish recipes that are both simple to prepare and guaranteed crowd-pleasers. From make-ahead options to quick last-minute additions, these dishes will help you create a memorable holiday spread without getting stuck in the kitchen all day.
Best Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter with salt (softened)
- 3 tablespoons cranberry sauce, homemade
- 1 tablespoon honey
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
If you’re looking to add a special touch to your holiday table, this cranberry honey butter is a must-try. It’s a simple blend that you can whip up in no time, perfect for spreading on warm rolls or toast. Pro tip: If you want a bit more tang, try using a homemade cranberry sauce with a hint of orange zest.
Best Christmas Stuffed Pumpkin Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 medium pumpkin (not wider than 5-6 inches)
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts if needed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing the pumpkin)
- 1 stick celery, diced finely
- 1 small onion, diced finely (about 2/3 cup)
- 3 large garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 cup cooked brown rice (from 1/3 cup uncooked rice)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 tablespoon ground sage
- 1 teaspoon ground rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Sea salt to taste (about 1/2-1 teaspoon)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Parsley for garnish, optional
Total Time: 80-100 minutes
If you’re looking for a festive dish to serve this holiday season, this stuffed pumpkin recipe is a great choice. It’s a fun way to bring some seasonal flavors to your table. You can even prepare it a day in advance, which is super helpful when you’re juggling holiday activities. Pro tip: If you want to switch things up, try using walnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor twist.
Best Vegan Stuffed Butternut Squash Christmas
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked quinoa (from ~3/4 cups raw, follow instructions)
- 1 Tbsp avocado or coconut oil
- 3 cups sliced shiitake mushrooms (loosely packed)
- 2 Tbsp coconut aminos (or tamari, adjust for saltiness)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chopped kale (loosely packed)
- 1/2 cup roughly chopped walnuts (optional)
Total Time: 90-135 minutes
Grab your favorite skillet and whip up this cozy vegan stuffed butternut squash. Start by cooking the quinoa and sautéing the shiitake mushrooms with a touch of oil. Mix in coconut aminos and garlic for a nice flavor boost. Toss in some chopped kale and walnuts for a bit of crunch. This dish is perfect for a festive holiday meal or any time you want something hearty and plant-based.
Classic Christmas Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 cup water
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (washed and sorted)
- Small pinch of salt
- 1 stick of cinnamon
- 1 strip of orange peel (use a peeler or paring knife)
Total Time: 50-60 minutes
Sweet, tangy, and oh-so-easy to make, this Classic Christmas Cranberry Sauce is a holiday must-have.
With just a handful of ingredients like fresh cranberries, a splash of orange juice, and a touch of cinnamon, this sauce brings a burst of flavor to your festive table. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it the perfect sidekick to your holiday feast. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
Creamy No Lettuce Christmas Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 head broccoli (cut into small pieces)
- 1 head cauliflower (cut into small pieces)
- 1 red onion (sliced thinly)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (cut in half)
- 1 cup mayo
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Total Time: 70-75 minutes
If you’re looking for a fresh take on a holiday side dish, this Creamy No Lettuce Christmas Salad is worth trying. It’s perfect for those who want something a bit different from the usual greens. You can whip this up in no time, making it a great option for busy holiday schedules. Pro tip: For a little extra crunch, toss in some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds just before serving.
Delicious Christmas Cranberry Salad
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces cranberries, fresh
- 2/3 cup white sugar
- 1 cup apple, diced (granny smith recommended)
- 1 cup pineapple, diced (use fresh or canned)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup coconut, shredded
- 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed from frozen
- Extra cranberries, apples, and marshmallows for decoration (optional)
Total Time: 180-200 minutes
3>
Sweet, simple, and filled with some of the best holiday flavors (hello, cranberries!), this Christmas Cranberry Salad is sure to be a hit at your table.
Made with fresh cranberries, diced Granny Smith apples, pineapple, mini marshmallows, and topped with whipped topping, this dish is as easy as it is tasty. Plus, the added crunch from pecans and the hint of coconut make it a fun twist on a classic. I’m sure this salad will find a place in your holiday traditions.
Delicious Christmas Cranberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients:
- 16 oz fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup almonds, sliced and toasted
- 1 cup cranberries, dried
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon shallot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
Total Time: 10-20 minutes
Get ready to toss together a salad that’s as easy as it is tasty. Packed with fresh baby spinach, crunchy toasted almonds, and sweet dried cranberries, this dish is a real treat.
The dressing is a simple mix of white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sugar, olive oil, honey, and a touch of finely chopped shallot. Throw in some toasted sesame seeds and optional poppy seeds, and you’ve got a salad that’s perfect for any holiday gathering. It’s a great way to add a little green to your Christmas table!
Delicious Christmas Glazed Carrots
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds carrots (peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (optional)
Total Time: 17-25 minutes
Carrots often get overlooked, but this recipe will change your mind. Cooking them with butter and brown sugar makes them sweet and buttery, perfect for the holiday table. The salt balances the sweetness, while a sprinkle of parsley adds a nice touch if you want. These glazed carrots are a simple yet tasty side dish that everyone will enjoy.
Delicious Christmas Salad with Goat Cheese and Oranges
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons of honey
- Juice from 1 large freshly squeezed lime
- 6 oz of baby spinach
- 1 cup pecan halves (lightly toasted, some finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 3 mandarin oranges (peeled and in segments)
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/3 cup pomegranate seeds (or more if desired)
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
If you’re looking for a festive dish that’s simple to put together, try this Christmas salad. You’ll start with a base of fresh baby spinach, then add layers of flavor with toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and juicy mandarin orange segments.
The dressing is a breeze to make with just olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and a squeeze of lime juice. It ties everything together beautifully. Don’t forget the crumbled goat cheese and pomegranate seeds for a little extra flair.
This salad is perfect for holiday gatherings and can be made in no time. Enjoy it with your favorite holiday meal or as a light lunch on its own!
Easy Christmas Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients:
- 6 bell peppers
- 1/2 large onion (or 1 small onion)
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 1/2 cups cooked rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/4 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Toasted bread crumbs with parmesan and herbs (optional)
Total Time: 50-70 minutes
Grab your skillet and whip up these easy Christmas stuffed bell peppers. Start by sautéing onion and garlic, then mix in cooked rice and ground beef or turkey. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Fill the bell peppers with this tasty mixture, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake until bubbly. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, and a sprinkle of toasted bread crumbs if you like a bit of crunch.
Easy Christmas Stuffed Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 6 big russet potatoes
- 6 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 cup room temperature sour cream
- 5 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or colby cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 medium scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Total Time: 60-80 minutes
Fire up your oven and whip up some cozy, easy Christmas stuffed potatoes. Bake the russet potatoes until they’re tender, then mix the insides with butter, sour cream, and crumbled bacon. Stir in some cheddar or colby cheese and season with a bit of salt, pepper, and paprika. Spoon the mix back into the potato skins, top with more cheese, and bake until bubbly. Sprinkle with sliced scallions for a bit of color. Perfect for a festive family meal.
Easy Vegan Christmas Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw wild rice
- 5 oz chopped baby arugula
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 cup sliced green onions
- 1 cup chopped roasted pecans
- 1 cup dried cherries
- 3 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (add more if needed)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Total Time: 70-85 minutes
If you’re looking for a festive salad that’s both tasty and easy to make, this is the one. You’ll combine the nutty flavor of wild rice with baby arugula, pomegranate seeds, green onions, roasted pecans, and dried cherries.
It’s simple to prepare, and once you try it, you’ll want to make it for every holiday. As our recipe tester suggests, “Prepare the dressing ahead of time for a quick and easy assembly on the day of your gathering.”
When ready to serve, toss everything together and enjoy it as a refreshing side dish or a light meal. Happy holidays!
Festive Christmas Lime Jello Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 package lime gelatin dessert mix (6 ounces)
- 1 can crushed pineapple, juice set aside (20 ounces)
- 1 package softened cream cheese (8 ounces)
- 2 cups whipping cream
- 1 cup diced pecans
Total Time: 4.5-5 hours
Grab your mixing bowl and whip up a festive Christmas lime jello salad. Start by dissolving the lime gelatin in hot water, then blend in the softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the crushed pineapple, saving the juice for later. Whip the cream until it forms soft peaks and fold it into the mix along with the diced pecans. Chill until set for a sweet and tangy holiday treat.
Healthy Christmas Cranberry Fluff
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces cranberries (fresh or thawed from frozen)
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 2 cups small marshmallows
- 8 ounces crushed pineapple (drained thoroughly)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream for whipping
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence
- Extra cranberries
- Mint leaves
Total Time: 135-120 minutes
Grab your food processor and whip up a festive, creamy Christmas treat. Start by pulsing the cranberries and sugar together. Then fold in the marshmallows and drained pineapple. Whip the heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form and gently mix it all together. Garnish with extra cranberries and mint leaves for a holiday touch.
Healthy Christmas Cranberry Jello Salad
Ingredients:
- 6 ounces raspberry-flavored gelatin (either 2 small packets or 1 large packet)
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple with its juice
- 1 can (14 ounces) whole berry cranberry sauce
- Zest from 1 orange
- Non-stick cooking spray
- 1/2 cup whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Fresh cranberries, mint leaves, and orange zest for decoration
Total Time: 360-370 minutes
Get ready for a festive treat with this Healthy Christmas Cranberry Jello Salad! This dish is all about combining some classic holiday flavors in a fun and easy way.
We’re using raspberry-flavored gelatin (because who doesn’t love a bit of fruity goodness?), and mixing it with crushed pineapple and whole berry cranberry sauce for that sweet-tart combo. The zest from an orange adds a fresh twist that really brings it all together.
A little non-stick cooking spray makes sure everything comes out smoothly, and a dollop of whipped cream, sweetened with just a touch of sugar, adds a light and creamy finish. Top it off with fresh cranberries, mint leaves, and a sprinkle of orange zest for a festive touch.
This is a dish that’s simple to make and sure to bring a bit of holiday cheer to your table!
Healthy Christmas Wreath Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh arugula
- 1/4 cup pomegranate arils
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/2 avocado, pitted and peeled
- Juice from 1/2 a lemon
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- A pinch of salt
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
If you’re looking for a festive dish that’s both tasty and healthy, this Christmas Wreath Salad is a great pick. It’s a breeze to put together, making it perfect for those busy holiday gatherings. Pro tip: If you’re a fan of nuts, sprinkle some toasted almonds on top for a little extra crunch.
Homemade Christmas Cranberry Relish
Ingredients:
- 12 oz bag of fresh cranberries
- 1 large orange
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- Water
Total Time: 25-35 minutes
Cranberries and oranges are a classic combo, especially during the holidays. Making this Homemade Christmas Cranberry Relish is super easy. The fresh cranberries add a nice tartness, while the orange gives it a sweet and citrusy kick. Just a bit of sugar balances everything out. You only need a little water to get it all going. It’s a simple recipe that brings a festive touch to any meal.
Juicy Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups walnuts, raw and unsalted
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds, unshelled
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon chipotle powder
- 6 cups salad greens
- 2 cups frisée leaves
- 1-2 apples or pears, diced
- 2 avocados, sliced
- 2 cups pomegranate seeds
- 1 cup crumbled cheese (blue, feta, or goat cheese)
- 1/3 cup virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic or apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fig jam
- 2 teaspoons orange peel zest + 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chili flakes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
This Juicy Christmas Salad is a great way to add some festive cheer to your meal. The mix of salad greens and frisée leaves gives it a nice base, while the apples or pears add a sweet touch. The walnuts and pumpkin seeds bring a satisfying crunch, especially when coated in honey or maple syrup with a hint of chipotle powder. Pomegranate seeds add a burst of color and flavor, and the creamy avocado slices pair well with the crumbled cheese. The honey mustard dressing, with its mix of olive oil, vinegar, dijon mustard, honey, and a bit of fig jam, ties everything together. A hint of orange zest and juice adds a refreshing twist.
Nutty Candied Pecan Christmas Salad with Apples and Cranberries
Ingredients:
- 150 grams of baby spinach (about 5 oz)
- 1 crisp red apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped (can use candied pecans)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Total Time: 10-20 minutes
If you’re a fan of fresh salads, then adding this to your holiday menu is a must. You can toss this salad together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for those busy days when you want something quick and tasty. Pro tip: If you want to add a little more crunch, try using candied pecans instead of regular ones.
Quick Christmas Fruit Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 sliced granny smith apple
- 1 sliced red apple (any type)
- 1 cup green grapes
- 1 cup red grapes
- 2 peeled and sliced kiwi
- 1 cup raspberries
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon water
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
If you’re looking for a quick and festive recipe, give this one a try. You’ll enjoy the mix of flavors from the granny smith apple, red apple, green and red grapes, kiwi, raspberries, and pomegranate seeds.
It’s easy to put together, and once you do, you’ll have a fresh and tasty salad. As my family likes to say, “It’s perfect for a holiday gathering or even just a cozy night in.”
When ready to serve, drizzle with a simple dressing of honey, lime juice, and water. Enjoy!
Tasty Christmas Cranberry Walnut Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed spring lettuce
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (sweetened with fruit juice)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (made with authentic ingredients)
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
This salad is a mix of fresh spring lettuce, which gives it a nice crunch. The dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness that’s not too overpowering. Chopped walnuts bring in a bit of texture and a nutty flavor. Crumbled blue cheese rounds it all out with a creamy finish. It’s a simple dish that’s perfect for a holiday meal or a quick lunch.
Tasty Christmas Salad with Pears and Pomegranate Seeds
Ingredients:
- 6 to 8 cups (approximately 5 oz.) of mixed greens (or your preferred leafy greens)*
- 1 ripe pear, chopped or sliced
- 1 apple, chopped or sliced
- 1 avocado, chopped or sliced
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup sweetened or roasted nuts (such as pecans, almonds, pistachios, or walnuts)
- Optional: 1/4 cup finely sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup avocado oil or mild olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
Tasty Christmas Salad with Pears and Pomegranate Seeds is fresh, sweet, and a little crunchy. Crisp mixed greens, juicy pear and apple slices, and creamy avocado mix with pomegranate seeds and your choice of sweetened or roasted nuts for a nice blend of flavors and textures.
The simple dressing, made with avocado oil, red wine vinegar, and maple syrup, ties it all together with a hint of sweetness and tang. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or a light, refreshing meal anytime.
Tasty Vegan Christmas Stuffed Squash
Ingredients:
- 1 whole butternut squash
- 1 can of black beans (15 oz)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 green onions
- 1.5 cups cooked rice or any preferred grain
- 1 cup corn
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon optional red pepper flakes
Total Time: 65-80 minutes
Butternut squash is perfect for stuffing, and this vegan version makes it a standout dish for Christmas. Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness, which pairs well with the savory filling. Black beans add protein, while fresh spinach and corn give it a nice texture. The spices like smoked paprika and chili powder add warmth without being too spicy. It’s a cozy meal that’s easy to put together and sure to please everyone at the table.