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.
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. Mini Quiches
Mini quiches are perfect for Christmas Eve lunch because they are easy to make and customizable for every guest’s preference. Use pre-made pastry for the base and fill them with ingredients like spinach, ham, cheese, or mushrooms.
Not only are they adorable, but they’re also delicious.
12. Vegetable Soup
A warm bowl of hearty vegetable soup is ideal for a cold Christmas Eve lunch. This soup is packed with nutritious vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes and seasoned with fragrant herbs.
It’s simple to prepare and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread.
13. Caprese Skewers
For a festive and easy-to-make option, try Caprese skewers. These combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
They’re light, refreshing, and bring a pop of color to the table.
14. Pulled Pork Sliders
If you’re in the mood for something hearty and satisfying, pulled pork sliders are the way to go. Slow-cooked pork with barbecue sauce served on small buns is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
They’re easy to assemble and packed with flavor.
15. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a timeless appetizer that’s always a hit. Add a touch of holiday flair with toppings like smoked salmon, crispy bacon bits, or a sprinkle of paprika.
They’re easy to prepare in advance and always disappear quickly.
16. Spinach and Feta Puff Pastries
For a flaky and savory treat, try spinach and feta puff pastries. These are simple to prepare with pre-made puff pastry dough and a creamy spinach and feta filling.
They’re elegant, delicious, and perfect for the holiday season.
17. Sweet Potato Fries
For a casual yet festive side dish, sweet potato fries are a great choice. Bake them to crispy perfection and serve with a variety of dips like garlic aioli or spicy ketchup.
These amazing fries are both kid-friendly and sophisticated.
18. Shrimp Cocktail
A classic shrimp cocktail is an effortless way to add elegance to your Christmas Eve lunch. Serve chilled shrimp with a tangy cocktail sauce for a dish that’s as simple to prepare as it is impressive.
19. Margherita Flatbread
Margherita flatbread is a crowd-pleasing option that’s quick and easy to make. Top flatbread with marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves, then bake until bubbly.
Slice it up for a shareable, festive dish.
20. Charcuterie Board
Last but not least is everyone’s favorite. A charcuterie board is the ultimate stress-free option for a Christmas Eve lunch. Include an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, crackers, nuts, and fruits.
It’s visually stunning, customizable, and allows guests to graze as they please.