Features
by Jessica Lockyer-Palmer
published on 23 October 2019
Whether you're looking for recipes for the classics or are in desperate need ofsome inspiration for what to cook your vegan guest, here you'll find links to all of ourChristmas recipe collectionsin one handy place.
Get-ahead recipes
If you're quick off the mark this year and are looking for ways to save time before the big day, take a look at these5 festive recipes to get ahead for Christmas, from Nigella's Christmas cake to Delia's Christmas pud.
Christmas baking recipes
Is there anything as joyful as a good festive baking session? From Christmassy biscuits from all four corners of the globe to the the best classic Christmas bakes and a selection of adventurous festive baking projects for the gingerbread house makers among you, we can guarantee your kitchen will be filled with the smell of seasonal spice and your counters will be liberally dusted with icing sugar.
Classic recipes for the big day
The classics are the classics for a reason and if you're looking for the best of the best when it comes to everything from the turkey to the roast potatoes, this collection ofClassic Christmas recipes from our star authors is the answer.
If it's not Christmas without a baked ham as far as you're concerned, here's 5 of our favourite recipes, from a more traditional takethrough to Jamie's jerk-glazed ham and even a vegetarian-friendly celeriac version.
Starters and canapés
Kick the festivities off in style with one of these tempting tidbits in our collection of the best Christmascanapés, and ensure your sit-down meal gets off to the best start with one of these easy make-aheadChristmas starters. Going veggie this year and need some inspiration for a meat-free starter? Scroll down to see our full rangeof vegetarian-friendly recipe collections.
Alternatives to the classics
The rules are there to be broken and turkey isn't everyone's bag, so if you're thinking of ditching the big bird in favour of say, a slow-cooked shoulder of lamb or a showstopping beef Wellington, why not see if these8 delicious alternatives to a traditional turkey this Christmascould be the centrepiece you're looking for. Set on festive fish? Take a look at our favourite fish centrepieces.
If you've got your heart set on a particular kind of meat, take a look at our dedicated collections for beef, pork, lamb and game birds and chicken, complete with a handy cooking guide.
The nation is divided when it comes to aclassic Christmas pud, so if you're firmly in favour of leavingit off the table, then you might find a fitting replacement in this collection of alternatives to Christmas Pudding. Still love a boozy pudding but fancy something less traditional? One of these boozy cakes, desserts and puddings has got your name on it.
Side dishes
Give your centrepiece a run for its money with these showstopping sides, from braised red cabbage dotted with crispy smoked bacon to the perfect bread sauce. Or put your faith in a man who knows a thing or two about what to do with a vegetable and make one of these Ottolenghi SIMPLE sides. And don't forget those all-important Brussels sprouts and give them a fresh makeover with one of these creative ideas.
Vegetarian and veganrecipes
Is the whole family going meat-free this Christmas or are you catering for a vegetarian or vegan guest? Panic over, we've got everything from tempting veggie startersand meat-free mains to all the vegan Christmas recipe inspiration you need, as well as thisselection of7 showstopping vegan desserts.
Still not inspired? We have a feeling Jamie Oliver might just do the trick with his best ever veggie Christmas recipes.
Christmas recipes from our star authors
And on the subject of Mr Oliver, we've got plenty more to feast your eyes and your tastebuds on with this feature on Jamie's best ever Christmas recipes, or perhaps you're more in the market for an Ottolenghi twist on Christmas and should head straight for our collection of the best Ottolenghi Christmas recipes (pomegranates at the ready).
For all of you Mary Berry fans out there, adding a touch of Mary magic to your festivities has never been easier withthis collection of recipes, or why not make Mary's Christmas Eve menu from Simple Comforts.
With penty of inspiringbakes from her latest cookbook, Nadiya Bakes,this collection of Nadiya Hussain's best festive recipes will ensure there's a touch of Nadiya magic at your table this Christmas.
Time and money-saving recipes
Want all of the festivities but none of the fuss? This menu of quick and easy one-tin dishes from The Roasting Tin series is the answer with everything from a tarragon roasted chicken to a gingerbread pear dessert. Looking to cut down on your spending too? These budget-friendly Christmasrecipes from the likes of Eat Well For Less will work wonders for your Christmas table and your bank account.
Recipes for leftovers
As far as we're concerned, the fun is only just beginning as Christmas Day draws to a close and you have all of those leftovers to make the most of, using these creative ideas for everything from Paul Hollywood'sBoxing Day pie to Jamie's Bread and Butter Panettone Tart.
