15 Festive Recipes for the Perfect Christmas Eve Dinner at Home

Posted on December 19, 2020 by Laura Grande

It's been an unusual year, so why not take the opportunity to break from tradition to try out some creative alternatives for your Christmas Eve feast? That's right – we're suggesting you skip the turkey entirely this year. From savoury Russian pelmeni dumplings and Italian-inspired sardine pasta to one-pot coq au vin and hearty Ethiopian stew, a non-traditional Christmas Eve dinner just might be the culinary adventure you need this year. So break out that apron and find a little inspiration with this roundup of dinner ideas, from meaty mains to vegan classics.

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Freezer-Friendly Russian Pelmeni Dumplings

 These savoury dumplings are packed with mouth-watering <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/30-minute-ground-beef-dinner-ideas/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ground beef</a> and pork. Whether you serve them in a broth or on their own, you'll be left with a full (and satisfied) belly by the end of the night. Want to make a batch in advance? Not only does this recipe freeze like a dream, it travels well, too – making it ideal for socially-distanced drop-offs. For more ideas, check out <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/girl-meets-farm/photos/molly-yeh-holiday-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Molly Yeh's best holiday recipes</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/freezer-friendly-russian-pelmeni-dumplings/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Freezer-Friendly Russian Pelmeni Dumplings</a>
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Pasta With Anchovies and Sardines

 A Christmas Eve staple for many Italian families, 2020 is the perfect year to introduce this salty, fishy <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-stuffed-pasta-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pasta</a> to your household if you haven't already. Serve up smaller portions for a hearty appetizer or make it the star of your table – either way, it'll vanish quicker than you can say buon appetito. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pasta-with-anchovies-and-sardines/517/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pasta With Anchovies and Sardines</a>
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Banquet Bowls With Cauliflower Hazelnut Pilaf, Dhal and Cucumber Raita

 Cover the table (and treat your taste buds!) with the vibrant tastes, textures and colours of India by making this epic <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/make-ahead-vegetarian-dinners/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">vegetarian dish</a> for your Christmas Eve feast. You can thank us later. For more, check out these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/global-eats/photos/indian-recipes-better-than-takeout/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">easy Indian recipes that are better than takeout</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/banquet-bowls-with-cauliflower-hazelnut-pilaf-dhal-and-scallion-cucumber-raita/18140/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Banquet Bowls With Cauliflower Hazelnut Pilaf, Dhal and Cucumber Raita</a>
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Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

 Make it a quiet, cozy Christmas Eve at home and curl up with a piping hot bowl of homemade French onion soup. The perfect appetizer to enjoy ahead of the main entree, this slow cooker version will leave your house smelling divine throughout the day. Need more inspiration? Try <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/pioneer-woman-best-soup-stew-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's best soups and stews</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/slow-cooker-french-onion-soup/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Slow Cooker French Onion Soup</a>
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Pan-Fried Pork Chops With Roast Cabbage Wedges

 Healthy, easy and budget-friendly, this pan-friend pork and purple cabbage dish will make a believer out of you. Cook the cabbage on high heat for a caramelized outer layer that makes proper use of its naturally nutty sweetness. *chef's kiss* Find out what's coming down the pipe with <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/fun-with-food/photos/pinterest-predicts-food-trends-2021/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pinterest's predictions for the biggest food trends of 2021</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/pan-fried-pork-chops-roast-cabbage-wedges/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pan-Fried Pork Chops With Roast Cabbage Wedges</a>
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Easy, Cheesy Fondue Board

 Don't feel like cooking? Jump on the charcuterie bandwagon with this holiday-inspired cheese fondue board. Both festive and versatile, it's the ideal customizable solution if you happen to have picky eaters in the house. Why spend Christmas arguing over what to make? Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/fondue-queso-cheesy-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">gooey, melty ways to get your cheese fix</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/blog/holiday-fondue-board-entertaining/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Easy, Cheesy Fondue Board</a>
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Healthy Ethiopian Vegan Potato Stew

 This Ethiopian potato stew (AKA dinich wot) is a <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/plant-based-recipes-for-beginners/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">plant-based</a> dish brimming with warm, spicy flavours. If you're looking for a one-pot wonder that'll still fill your belly, look no further. Serve alongside some <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/homemade-bread-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">homemade bread</a> or a bowl of rice. Is there anything better than comfort food on Christmas Eve? Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/healthy-ethiopian-vegan-potato-stew/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Healthy Ethiopian Vegan Potato Stew</a>
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Mushroom and Brie Wellington

 With its rich filling of thyme-scented mushrooms and <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/photos/best-baked-brie-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">melted Brie</a>, this golden puff pastry just might become an instant Christmas Eve classic. The savoury onion cream sauce elevates the dish to the next level, all but guaranteeing that your family will all be reaching for seconds. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mushroom-and-brie-wellington/13661/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Mushroom and Brie Wellington</a>
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West Coast Cedar-Planked Salmon

 Fish might not the first food that comes to mind when planning quiet Christmas at home – but why not? It's healthy, versatile, delicious and relatively simple to make. Try this version of cedar-planked salmon from the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. Here are more traditional <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/thanksgiving/photos/indigenous-fall-harvest-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Indigenous recipes</a> you have to try ASAP! Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/west-coast-cedar-planked-salmon/14386/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">West Coast Cedar-Planked Salmon</a>
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Polenta Lasagna

 This clever twist on the <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/blog/one-dish-four-ways-lasagna/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">traditional lasagna recipe</a> involves plenty of cornmeal layered with hearty Bolognese and cheese for a satisfying, stress-free casserole. Swap out the beef for a vegetarian alternative. Find more of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/30-must-try-casserole-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">our easiest casseroles to simplify your weeknights</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/polenta-lasagna/22034/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Polenta Lasagna</a>
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Seafood Platter

 Take the plunge this Christmas Eve with a customizable seafood platter that you can serve up hot or cold. Smoked salmon, freshly cracked crab legs, lobster tails, mussels, clams, oysters — the options truly are endless. Vote together as a family or surprise each member with their favourite fish or crustacean. It's been a strange year, so go ahead and treat yourself. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/seafood-platter/18374/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Seafood Platter</a>
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Galbi (Marinated Beef Short Ribs)

 Think beyond the turkey this Christmas Eve and whip up a batch of this sticky, addictive, lick-your-fingers clean dish. This <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/global-eats/photos/korean-inspired-recipes/">Korean-inspired</a> short ribs recipe is a joy for adults and kids alike — especially when you pair them with a bowl of fluffy rice. For even better flavour, make the marinade in advance and let is sit in the fridge overnight. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/galbi-marinated-beef-short-ribs/14864/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Galbi (Marinated Beef Short Ribs)</a>
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Coq Au Vin

 We'll bet you'd never considered making this traditional French recipe for Christmas, but now's the year to start. Cremini mushrooms and diced pancetta simmer alongside dry red wine and brandy for a mouth-watering one-pot meal you'll cherish from start to finish. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-coq-au-vin/15435/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Coq Au Vin</a>
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Epic Winter Salad With the Best Dressing Ever

 Not in the mood to labour over a stove? Consider a hearty <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/best-hearty-winter-salad-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">winter salad</a> as a healthy Christmas Eve dinner alternative. Loaded with the season’s best produce, this vibrant recipe is easily adaptable to any of your favourite cold weather add-ins. Just don't skip the mouth-watering homemade roasted garlic dressing. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/epic-winter-salad-recipe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Epic Winter Salad With the Best Dressing Ever</a>
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Honey Mustard Glazed Ham

 Yes, we know it's not Easter, but just hear us out. This year, skip the <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/thanksgiving/photos/tips-how-to-roast-turkey-cooking-temperature/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">turkey</a> entirely in favour of a plump, juicy ham that you can top with all your favourite sides and seasonings. Think: grilled pineapple or fresh sprigs of rosemary. It just might make you forget the dreary winter weather outside. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/honey-mustard-glazed-ham/20971/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Valerie Bertinelli's Honey Mustard Glazed Ham</a>
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