Christmas is coming, and with it, the all-too-familiar kitchen chaos that turns cooks frantic. But fear not, because these 13 make-ahead sides are your ticket to a calm, collected, and deliciously prepared Christmas feast.
7 Layer Salad
This 7 Layer Salad is not just a feast for the eyes with its vibrant veggies and creamy layers; it’s also a strategic move for a relaxed Christmas feast. Whip it up the day before, and those layers will stay put, making your holiday spread both stress-free and spectacular. When you unveil this dish, be prepared for a round of applause without any last-minute kitchen hustle.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad
Broccoli Crunch Salad
Toss together this Broccoli Crunch Salad and forget about it until the big day; its flavors only intensify as it chills. You’ve got the perfect blend of crunchy and chewy, with a smoky hint of bacon that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad
Cherry Salad
Call it “Pink Fluff” or Cherry Salad; either way, it’s the no-bake wonder that will sweeten up your Christmas without any fuss. Six simple ingredients and you’ve got a fluffy side that’s as fun to eat as it is easy to make. It’s a make-ahead dream, freeing you up to mingle and jingle all the way.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad
Amish Macaroni Salad
Amish Macaroni Salad is the creamy, comforting side that actually gets better as it sits in the fridge. It’s a no-brainer for a busy holiday, giving you one less thing to worry about on Christmas Day. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish that gives you more time to rock around the Christmas tree?
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad
Texas Caviar Dip
Break out the chips for this Texas Caviar Dip, a zesty side that’s more than just a pretty bowl of beans and veggies. The longer it sits, the better it gets, which means making it in advance is a win-win. It’s the side dish that keeps your spirits high and your kitchen chaos low.
Get the Recipe: Texas Caviar Dip
Watergate Salad
Watergate Salad is that fluffy, nutty, pastel-perfect side that everyone secretly adores. It’s a cinch to whip up and even easier to love, especially since you can make it ahead and avoid any holiday kitchen drama. Trust us, this is the quirky crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad
Chickpea Salad
Brighten up your Christmas spread with a splash of color and health—Chickpea Salad to the rescue! It’s as simple to prepare as it is vibrant, and it actually tastes better after a day or two, giving you all the more reason to prep it early. Say goodbye to stress and hello to a side that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Salad
Ramen Noodle Salad
With this Ramen Noodle Salad, you’ll add a playful crunch to your holiday table that everyone will be talking about. The best part? It stays crisp and flavorful even when made ahead, so you can focus on pouring the eggnog instead of tossing salads.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Noodle Salad
Pea Salad
Dive into this classic Pea Salad for a creamy and tangy side that’s the ultimate in easy Christmas prep. Just mix it up, let it chill, and you’ve got a comforting dish ready to go when the festivities begin. It’s the no-fret, all-flavor side that keeps on giving.
Get the Recipe: Pea Salad
Lime Jello Salad
Lime Jello Salad brings a zesty, cool twist to your holiday lineup with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Make it ahead, let it set, and enjoy the extra time for wrapping those last-minute gifts. It’s the spoonable, shareable, and oh-so-easy side that just might steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Lime Jello Salad
Cajun Pasta Salad
Spice up your holiday table with a Cajun Pasta Salad that’s as bold in flavor as it is easy to prepare ahead. Just toss it together, let the flavors meld, and serve up a side that brings the heat without sweating in the kitchen. You’ll be the talk of the feast with this spicy number on your menu.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Pasta Salad
Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower and Bacon
This Amish Broccoli Salad is a delightful mix of fresh veggies, creamy dressing, and bacon that’s sure to please. Make it the day before for a side that’s both hearty and indulgent, giving you more time to enjoy the holiday cheer. It’s the perfect balance of health and flavor that will have your family coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower and Bacon
Orange Fluff Salad
Orange Fluff Salad is a throwback treat that’s as easy to make as it is to love, with a creamsicle flavor that’s sure to delight. Mix it up, chill it out, and serve a side that’s both refreshing and sweet without any last-minute stress. This classic dish is a breeze to prepare, leaving you to bask in the joy of the season.
Get the Recipe: Orange Fluff Salad