6+ Delicious Christmas Dishes with Holly That Will Brighten Your Holiday Table!
As the festive season approaches, the aroma of delicious dishes fills the air, creating a magical atmosphere. Imagine gathering around a beautifully decorated table, surrounded by family and friends, sharing laughter and love over mouthwatering meals. This holiday season, let’s explore three delightful Christmas dishes that not only taste incredible but also bring a sprinkle of festive cheer with the inclusion of holly.
This succulent roast turkey is a showstopper with its golden-brown skin and juicy meat, infused with the unique flavor of holly berries. The cooking method involves brining the turkey for a day to ensure it’s flavorful and moist, then roasting it to perfection. The hint of holly adds a surprising twist that pairs beautifully with traditional herbs.
1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
4 cups water
1 cup salt
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon black peppercorns
1/4 cup holly berries (ensure they are safe for consumption)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups vegetable broth
The process of brining not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the turkey tender and juicy. Once it’s roasted, the skin turns crispy and golden, making it a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday feast. The holly berries, known for their vibrant color, not only enhance the dish visually but also lend a subtle sweetness that complements the savory notes of the turkey. Serve it with your favorite sides, and watch as your guests rave about this unforgettable meal.
<pImagine a creamy pasta dish that’s not only comforting but also bursting with festive flavors! This creamy pasta combines the tartness of cranberries with the richness of a homemade sauce, creating a delightful balance of tastes. The addition of holly leaves, finely chopped, brings a fresh, herbal note to the dish that elevates it to a holiday favorite.
1 pound pasta (fettuccine or penne works great)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh cranberries
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup holly leaves, finely chopped (ensure they are safe for consumption)
Salt and pepper to taste
This pasta dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also incredibly easy to whip up. Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then add cranberries and cream to create a luscious sauce. The pasta gets coated in this dreamy mixture, and the holly leaves add a pop of color and a fresh taste that’s simply irresistible. It’s perfect as a side dish or even as a main course for a cozy holiday dinner.
There’s something magical about the smell of gingerbread cookies baking during the holiday season. These cookies are spiced just right, with a soft, chewy texture that makes them hard to resist. Decorated with icing and edible holly leaves, they not only taste amazing but also look festive on any holiday platter.
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup molasses
1 egg
Royal icing (for decoration)
Edible holly leaves (ensure they are safe for consumption)
Mixing up the dough is a wonderful way to kick off the holiday spirit, and the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their first bite. As you roll out the dough and cut it into festive shapes, you’ll find yourself getting lost in the joy of baking. Once the cookies are baked and cooled, decorate them with royal icing and add those charming edible holly leaves for a finishing touch. These cookies make a delightful treat for family gatherings or a sweet gift for friends!
