It’s that time of year again, and we’re all excited about decorating our Christmas tree, along with the entire interior and exterior of the house.
But aside from decorations, preparing a holiday table is also a big part of the festivities. Unfortunately, it can sometimes feel overwhelming with so many delicious dishes that come to mind.
This is especially true on Christmas Eve, the peak of preparations for the grand finale. And of course, we need to plan a Christmas Eve lunch—especially if guests are arriving.
To help you avoid burnout in the kitchen, I’ve prepared a list of simple Christmas Eve lunch ideas that will enrich your holiday table with minimal effort.
Potato Salad
Most salads are a no-brainer when it comes to preparing them, but at the same time, they can be quite delicious and even nutritious.
Because of that, it is not a surprise that one salad is first on the list. This one is made from potatoes, and there indeed are some complicated ways to make it.
However, as I like to keep things simple, I created a recipe that is quite easy to follow, but at the same time will give you creamy and delicious results.
Chicken Salad
As you can already guess, there is yet another salad recipe on this list. It is a good old chicken salad that is, generally speaking, great for any occasion, but it can perfectly serve you on Christmas Eve.
There aren’t many dishes that are as simple to make as this salad, while at the same time being incredibly delicious. Aside from that, as it is filled with chicken and some vegetables, it is also full of proteins and quite nutritious.
All these are good reasons to put it on your Christmas Eve lunch list.
Broccoli Salad
If you are truly into health and nutrition, this one is perfect for you. You can already conclude that from the name itself as broccolis are one of the healthiest foods in the world.
I have to be honest and say that they are not the tastiest ones, but that’s why we are using this recipe to incorporate them into this delicious salad.
Combined with smoky almonds and pepitas, sweet cranberries, and creamy dressing, they might become your favorite food right before Christmas.
BLT Salad
If you are not a fan of salads, you may have already given up reading this text. However, I doubt that there are many people who don’t like them.
That is why I prepared for you yet another salad recipe that is a flavorful twist on the classic sandwich. BLT salad is a combination of juicy tomatoes, crispy bacon, and creamy dressing, full of amazing flavors and also more nutritious than the classic sandwich.
However, what is most important for you, is that it is made in just a few easy steps.
Tuna Pasta Salad
Me and my family traditionally cook fish and seafood on Christmas Eve. That’s why I started making tuna pasta salad a few years ago, even though I mostly like to enjoy it during the summer months.
Not all people are into fish and similar types of food, but I am sure that this amazing salad can satisfy even the most demanding palates.
Aside from being delicious and nutritious, if you follow this recipe, you will make it easily and it will relieve you of additional stress on this festive day.
Chicken-Stuffed Crescent Rolls
I can’t imagine holidays without some comfort food like rolls. Aside from that, I am a big fan of chicken as well.
So, the next on my list is the recipe for chicken-stuffed crescent rolls. They are cheesy and packed with amazing savory chicken flavors, and they are quite easy to make.
Aside from that, these rolls look like they are the part of Christmas tree itself.
Cobb Salad
It is a classic American salad that’s hearty, colorful, and packed with flavor. Although it can be served on almost any occasion, it is especially wonderful when you see it on a holiday table.
The great thing about this salad is that it is quite easy to assemble and there are many delicious variations and ingredients so everyone can find something for himself.
Boston Baked Beans
If you live in New England, you are probably familiar with this amazing dish because it is a staple there.
However, for those of you who are not, Boston baked beans are a classic, hearty dish made from tender navy beans and sweet-savory sauce that is a perfect combo of molasses, brown sugar, and often pork or bacon.
Aside from the fact that they are delicious, these beans are also very easy to make, making them perfect for Christmas Eve lunch.
Fruit And Cheese Platter
The fruit and cheese platter is elegant, versatile, and requires minimal effort which makes it an ideal choice for the Christmas Eve table.
It works wonderfully as an appetizer, a light snack, or even as part of the dessert spread. Most importantly, everything on it is delicious and nutritious.
Winter Salad
Last but not least is a winter salad. As the name suggests, it is a salad perfect for this time of the year. It is full of various delicious ingredients, including greens, veggies, fruits, cheese, nuts, and seeds.
If you want to enjoy something light and healthy one day before Christmas, this quick and easy salad is a perfect choice.