It’s the most wonderful time of the year, jam-packed with celebrations, gifts, mouth-watering meals and delicious desserts. And now’s the time to start prepping for the big day: curate your wishlist, shop for gifts and plan your menu – all while taste-tasting a few treats along the way!
This year, skip the traditional spread and instead fill your table with a medley of exciting flavours that will impress your guests – think fun salads, filling vegetarian bakes and contemporary twists on old favourites. Here, 10 of our favourite dishes to inspire your modern Australian Christmas feast.
01
This ’70s favourite makes a comeback as the perfect modern-day party starter. Simply scoop out the cob’s centre, add the cream cheese filling and voila – the perfect grazing board centrepiece.
02
For a stunning side that could even outshine the main event, simply toss chopped crisp cabbage, green onions, slivered almonds and crispy noodles in a bowl, then drizzle with dressing.
03
Dukkah prawn skewers with labne and minty tomato salad
Prawns are a Christmas Day staple in Australia but this year, give them a Middle Eastern twist. Barbecued or grilled, these skewers are easy and quick to put together, making them a winning starter at any big day feast.
04
Rainbow vegetarian pad Thai with crispy noodles
Swap your standard side salad for this spicy crowd-pleaser. The vibrant Christmas colours and crunchy noodle topping makes this dish one to remember. And if you’re feeling extra festive, toss in some turkey, ham or chicken for added flavour.
05
Christmas ham with hoisin sauce, orange and ginger glaze
‘Tis the season for big, bold flavours and this hoisin-glazed ham definitely delivers. Its zingy ginger finish makes for unforgettable main on the big day, but is also just as good sandwiched between bread for your Boxing Day breakfast.
06
Brown rice and roast pumpkin salad
Vegans and meat-lovers alike will love this refreshing salad, where sweet maple syrup and soy sauce are the backbeat to pumpkin and rice. It’s a summery blend of textures that will be right at home on any Aussie Christmas table.
07
Spinach & ricotta stuffed pasta shell bake
Cheesy and rich in flavour, this creamy ricotta pasta bake will bring the taste of Italy to your festive feast – and who doesn’t love Italian! Leftovers? This will be even better the next day.
08
Rich in colour with plenty of crunch, you’ll love the light and refreshing flavours of this vibrant side dish. It’s the perfect accompaniment to seafood platters and a barbecue spread.
09
This three-ingredient dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and the young at heart. Plus it’s so easy to make, young chefs can get involved. Simply melt the chocolate, stir in the noodles and scoop into cupcake papers ready for decorating. They keep for up to two weeks in the fridge, too, so dessert is sorted for the rest of the year.
10
Ice-cream pudding and shortbread pops
Your favourite festive flavours – think shortbread, mixed spice and everything nice – are turned into a frozen delight and dipped in chocolate for that satisfying crunch. And with a hint of coffee liqueur, it’s love at first bite. Don’t forget to leave one out for Santa!
Brought to you by Chang’s.
