Christmas arrives with its familiar challenge: what dishes will grace the festive tables and late-night meals? Some households dive into the kitchen, turning holiday cooking into a labor of love, while others focus on enjoying the company and letting easy, crowd-pleasing dishes shine.
For those who want to avoid the holiday blues and still savor every moment with friends and family, there are plenty of quick ideas. Appetizers and simple, stylish meals can be served straight to the table, making the celebration feel effortless and memorable.
endless shrimp
Let’s be honest — shrimp on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve is a beloved staple. Grilling is one option, but it can bring lingering odors and extra work. A skillet of shrimp finished in a rich sauce, prepared earlier in the day, offers a delicious alternative that still captures the festive spirit without the rush. There’s definitely room for a succulent shrimp dish that comes together with minimal last-minute fuss, allowing more time for guests and conversation.
Alongside this classic, keep in mind the timeless appeal of pates, cheeses, and assorted cold cuts. A well-curated board can win over family members of every age, inviting guests to nibble and chat while the main courses finish cooking. And for convenience, several reputable brands offer pre-cooked shrimp that can be plated quickly, reducing prep time without sacrificing flavor.
splash for everyone
Seafood remains a standout choice for holiday menus. A vibrant seafood platter can be a centerpiece for a celebratory table, with a mix of flavors and textures that pair beautifully with crisp crackers, zesty sauces, and bright herbs. The goal is balance: something light and refreshing alongside richer, more indulgent dishes to keep the evening lively and satisfying.
Another essential for the festive spread is a well-prepared center piece that can be assembled ahead of time. A dish featuring monkfish, salmon, shrimp, oysters, or mussels, accompanied by vegetables or even pineapple for a touch of sweetness, makes a dramatic statement. The important part is a straightforward method: cook, slice, and combine to showcase the seafood without turning the kitchen into a chaos zone.
A simple salpicon can be made with a dressing of oil and vinegar, red and green peppers, onions, and a few herbs. A pink seafood sauce, or a light vinaigrette, can lift the flavors and provide color and balance to the plate.
Pintxo to pintxo
The Basque tradition of pintxos travels well beyond its homeland. Even if the kitchen isn’t in the Basque region, pintxos bring a touch of culinary history that elevates any table. Think meat, fish, cheese, and vegetables layered into small, flavorful bites that invite guests to sample and share. A simple idea is Cantabrian anchovies resting on a heart of lettuce with a dab of cream cheese. A bed of endives or a light spread keeps the bite clean and elegant, and the assembly can be done in advance for a smooth service at the end of the meal.
There are countless variations. Sweet and savory can mingle on one tray: black pudding on bread with caramelized onions and roasted potatoes; avocado with smoked salmon on toast; duck or goose with flavorful jams and pickles; chistorra skewers; ventresca with piquillo peppers. The key is to let a range of textures and flavors shine while keeping the presentation approachable for guests of all ages. The result is a festive, interactive dining experience that sparks conversation and delight.