Eat Your Way Through The Holidays! 23 Can’t Miss Dishes!

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Eat Your Way Through The Holidays! 23 Can’t Miss Dishes!

For those planning a feast this holiday season, we present 23 can’t-miss recipes. Each recipe offers a mix of familiar and unfamiliar flavors, opening up a world of scrumptious possibilities at your holiday table. And the best part? All of them are outlined in simple steps and terms, making it a breeze to cook up a festive storm.

Two squares of cranberry bars on a slate plate.
Cranberry Bars. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

A plate with three Au Gratin Potato Stacks on it.
Au Gratin Potato Stacks. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you haven’t tried Au Gratin Potato Stacks yet, I highly recommend them for your next holiday dinner. Just imagine biting into thin layers of golden potatoes, dripping with creamy cheese – it’s like a piece of heaven on your plate! Plus, the stacks make it look rather fancy for a holiday side dish. Trust me, it’ll be the star of the dinner table!
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Mistletoe Mule

A copper glass filled with mule and with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.
Mistletoe Mule. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever heard of the Mistletoe Mule? It’s a wonderful holiday cocktail that has quickly become my go-to festive drink. One sip of its refreshing blend of ginger beer, lime juice, and vodka, and you’ll be transported right into the holiday spirit. Perfect for toasting with friends and family over the holidays!
Get the Recipe: Mistletoe Mule

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Let’s talk about the Old Fashioned Ham Salad – it’s an oldie but goodie! This simple, yet flavor-packed, dish mixes chopped ham, tangy relish, and smooth mayo to create a creamy salad that everyone loves. It’s not the holidays without this timeless classic on the dining table!
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma

An  winter vanilla thyme vanilla paloma mocktailwith a sprig of thyme.
Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma is one of those cocktails that will make your holiday gathering stand out. Who can resist the unique mix of tequila, zesty grapefruit, sweet vanilla, and a hint of thyme? Serve it in a fancy glass to get the party started and watch the compliments flow in!
Get the Recipe: Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma

Turkey & Apple Panini

Turkey & Apple Panini stacked on a plate.
Turkey & Apple Panini. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The Turkey & Apple Panini might sound simple, but it packs a punch of flavor! This little gem combines thinly sliced turkey and crisp apples on a toasty panini. It’s both refreshing and filling, making it perfect for a light lunch or dinner during the bustle of the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds in a shallow yellow bowl.
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds are here to change your mind about this unfairly maligned veggie. The brown butter gives a beautiful nuttiness and the almonds add a delightful crunch. It’s a dish that can hold its own next to any main course. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Canadian Coffee

A canadian coffee with a whipped cream and cinnamon sticks.
Canadian Coffee. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You know what’s perfect for a chilly holiday evening? A piping hot mug of Canadian Coffee. With the smoothness of coffee and the kick of Canadian whiskey, topped with softly whipped cream, it’s the ultimate cozy winter drink. Go ahead, snuggle up with a mug full by the fireplace!
Get the Recipe: Canadian Coffee

Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema

A wooden cutting board with sliced meat and sauce on it.
Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Want to jazz up your holiday canapés? Try out these bite-sized Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema. They’re not just another nibble – they’re a conversation starter! The tangy lime crema balances out the juicy pork tenderloin on a crispy piece of bread. They’ll surely leave your guests begging for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema

Cranberry Bars

Two squares of cranberry bars on a slate plate.
Cranberry Bars. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Surprise your loved ones with these homemade Cranberry Bars. Each bite is a tangy-sweet combination of a cake-like crust and gloriously red cranberries. Not only are they delicious, but they also add a splash of color to your dessert spread. Trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can say ‘Happy Holidays’!
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Bars

White Christmas Cocktail

A cocktail with a cucumber garnish on a table.
White Christmas Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Let the White Christmas Cocktail be the twinkling star of your holiday drinks menu. This dreamy cocktail blends the creaminess of coconut, the sharpness of vodka, and adds a little sparkle with a dash of sparkling wine. Sip it by the Christmas tree and it’s like having your own white Christmas, no matter the weather outside.
Get the Recipe: White Christmas Cocktail

Smoked Ribeye Roast

Sliced smoked ribeye beef on a cutting board.
Smoked Ribeye Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Are you ready for an impressively bold holiday main course? Say hello to the Smoked Ribeye Roast. Each cut is a perfect balance of smoky outer layer and a juicy, tender center. It’s so mouthwatering, it might even outshine the Christmas tree!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Ribeye Roast

Hot Chocolate Board

A wooden platter with hot cocoa, candy canes, and marshmallows.
Hot Chocolate Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a dash of fun to your holiday tradition by introducing a Hot Chocolate Board. It’s an assortment of all things sweet and wonderful to dunk, swirl, and sprinkle on a steamy cup of hot cocoa. It’s not only delicious but also a great bonding activity for the family – every cup can be a unique creation!
Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Board

Sausage Stuffing

Sausage stuffing in a red pot.
Sausage Stuffing. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Nothing speaks ‘holiday comfort food’ like a good ol’ Sausage Stuffing. It’s such a classic side with its hearty sausage, homely spices, and cubes of day-old bread. Do the taste-test and you’ll know why it’s a staple for a reason! Truly a delicious supporting act for your spectacular holiday main course.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffing

Cider Sangria

Two glasses of cider sangria with cinnamon sticks.
Cider Sangria. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring in the light and fizzy Cider Sangria to your holiday repertoire! It’s practically fruit salad in a fancy glass – seasonal fruits, crisp cider, and a splash of wine. Refreshing and light, it’s the ideal drink for guests who prefer a less boozy holiday libation.
Get the Recipe: Cider Sangria

Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies

Gingerbread cookies with candy canes on a table.
Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Let’s not forget the dear little Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies – a holiday sweet tradition! Not only are they cute to look at and fun to decorate, but the delightful blend of dark chocolate and spicy ginger is also irresistible. Plus, they’re perfect as stocking stuffers or gifts for cookie exchanges!
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies

Whoville Martini

A blue martini with a cherry on top.
Whoville Martini. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fancy a whimsical touch to your holiday celebrations? The Whoville Martini is just the ticket. Imagine a delightful blend of vodka, peppermint schnapps, and cream – it’s festive cheer in a glass! It’s a fun, merry touch to your drinks menu that will definitely be a hit!
Get the Recipe: Whoville Martini

Triple Ginger Cake

A plate with four squares of triple ginger cake bars on it.
Triple Ginger Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Showstopper alert! The Triple Ginger Cake, with its irresistible texture and a punch of warming ginger, surely takes the cake. A generous slice of this, with its rich flavor and spicy touch of ginger, is the sweetest way to conclude any holiday meal!
Get the Recipe: Triple Ginger Cake

Bailey’s Hot Chocolate with Baileys Marshmallow

Two glasses of Bailey's Hot Chocolate with marshmallows on the top of it.
Bailey’s Hot Chocolate with Baileys Marshmallow. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ready for a grown-up twist on a childhood holiday favorite? Then you’ll love Bailey’s Hot Chocolate with Baileys Marshmallow. This is hot cocoa, but not as you know it – it’s richer, creamier, and yes, boozier. Definitely a festive upgrade for your usual hot chocolate date!
Get the Recipe: Bailey’s Hot Chocolate with Baileys Marshmallow

Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

A sweet potato on a plate with a fork.
Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re after something easy and tasty, then these Sweet Potatoes made in an air fryer are a no-brainer. Inside, they’re soft and fluffy, and the outside gets a lovely crisp texture – just the way good sweet potatoes should be! It’s a fuss-free side that delivers on all fronts.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

Cold Crab Dip

A bowl of cold crab dip with crackers and chives.
Cold Crab Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If there’s a way to get the holiday feast started right, it’s with the Cold Crab Dip. It’s a showstopper – a chilled seafood twist that pairs perfectly with a basket full of crunchy crackers. One scoop and you’ll understand why it makes the cut for the holiday spread every year.
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Sauerkraut in a serving dish with a spoon.
Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a touch of adventurous flavor to your holiday menu with the Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon. We’re talking a tangy-sweet-savory blend that’ll give your palate a delightful surprise. It’s an unexpected side dish that effortlessly steals the spotlight from even the fanciest of mains.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry

Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry on a counter.
Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The day after your holiday feast, reinvent the leftover turkey into these delightful Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry. It’s like a comforting blanket of flaky pastry over a warm, hearty filling. You get to enjoy the holiday meal flavor just a little bit longer. Ingenious, isn’t it?
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole.
Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You can hardly call it a holiday meal without a steaming dish of Sweet Potato Casserole straight from the oven. It’s sweet, creamy, and with a wonderfully crispy top. Be it an intimate family meal or a festive dinner party, this comforting side dish feels right at home.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole

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