The secret to successful Christmas hosting is preparation, so choose dishes that need minimal last-minute work and schedule in some time a day or two before the party. This menu is ideal, and would easily serve eight.
Cook the ham in advance, so you only need to glaze it; if you have freezer space, make a clutch of baked alaskas the day before and keep frozen until needed; bake the Gorgonzola biscuits a few hours ahead, so they need only be topped with extra cheese and quince paste just before serving.
In fact, you’ll find that all of the recipes can be at least partly made in advance, so you’ll be free on the night to indulge in the sloe gin and pomegranate sparklers.
Gorgonzola Crackers with Quince Chutney and Chicory
A flavor-packed but light savory morsel is exactly what is needed as a Christmas day appetizer and these Gorgonzola Crackers with Quince Chutney and Chicory are the perfect bite-sized treats. You could serve them earlier as canapes or plate them up before the main meal.
Beet, Potato and Taleggio Gratin
This Beet, Potato and Taleggio Gratin is like three sides in one, incorporating your potato, seasonal beets and creamy indulgent cheese with crispy breadcrumbs on top. Serve up in generous scoops.
Spiced Red Cabbage with Warm Winter Spices, Juniper and Bay
A festive classic – everyone needs a go-to red cabbage recipe for Christmas, and this one with winter spices, red currant jelly, and red wine vinegar is a failsafe option, which can be prepped in advance.
Christmas Ham with Chilli and Marmalade Glaze
A Christmas ham is the centerpiece around which your Christmas meal is based and this marmalade and chilli glazed ham is a sticky, spicy showstopper. Plus it will make wonderful leftovers as cold cuts for Boxing Day.
Roast Carrot, Mushroom and Chestnut Puff Pies
Vegetarians can often be an afterthought but these Roast Carrot, Mushroom and Chestnut Puff Pies are so delicious that even the meat-eaters will want to try them – just be sure to make enough so there are plenty to go around.
Chocolate Cherry Bombe Alaskas
These decadent Chocolate Cherry Bombe Alaskas will bring real wow-factor to your Christmas Day menu, with a moist chocolate cake, cherry compote, and ice cream center, and soft, blow-torched meringue topping.
Sloe Gin Pomegranate Sparklers
For a festive twist on the classic bellini you can't beat these sloe gin cocktails. With Prosecco and pomegranate seeds they are such a gorgeous color and make a sparkling aperitif to kick off your Christmas day menu.