50+ Easy December Dinner Recipes for Cozy Family Gatherings

As the year draws to a close, December brings with it a sense of warmth, joy, and celebration, especially when it comes to food.

Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner with family or hosting a festive gathering, December dinner recipes should be both comforting and festive.

From hearty casseroles to elegant roasts, there’s something for every taste and occasion during this holiday season.

This collection of over 50 December dinner recipes will help you create memorable meals that celebrate the spirit of the season while satisfying every palate.

From savory dishes to delicious sides, each recipe is sure to bring the festive flavors of December right to your table.

50+ Easy December Dinner Recipes for Cozy Family Gatherings

No matter how you choose to celebrate December, the food you serve can set the tone for your gathering.

With over 50 delicious and diverse dinner recipes, you’re sure to find the perfect dishes to suit your holiday gatherings.

Whether you’re cooking for a large group, a small family dinner, or a quiet night at home, these recipes will help you create meals that are both heartwarming and flavorful.

Embrace the flavors of winter with dishes that feature seasonal ingredients, from roasted meats and fresh vegetables to rich, creamy sauces and sweet holiday desserts.

These December dinner recipes will make your celebrations unforgettable!

Baked Honey Garlic Salmon with Roasted Vegetables

This delicious Baked Honey Garlic Salmon is a perfect main dish for a December dinner, combining sweet, savory, and garlic flavors with the rich taste of salmon. Paired with roasted vegetables, it’s a balanced and festive meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for both weeknight dinners and holiday gatherings. The sweet honey glaze enhances the natural flavors of the salmon while the roasted veggies add color and texture.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp honey
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup baby carrots
• 1 cup brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for veggies)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey garlic glaze generously over each salmon fillet.
5. Toss the carrots and brussels sprouts in olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper, and spread them around the salmon on the baking sheet.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish the salmon with fresh parsley before serving.

This Baked Honey Garlic Salmon with Roasted Vegetables is not only a healthy choice but also a beautifully flavorful dish. The sweet and savory combination of honey and garlic gives the salmon an irresistible taste, while the roasted vegetables add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor. It’s a festive dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste, making it ideal for busy December nights or special occasions like Christmas or New Year’s Eve.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a rich and savory dish that’s perfect for a cozy December dinner. The chicken is seared to perfection and then simmered in a creamy sauce with spinach, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a comforting, flavorful meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or even a simple green salad, making it a versatile dish for any winter gathering.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and the spinach wilts.
6. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the chicken, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes offers a satisfying and hearty meal with rich, creamy flavors that are sure to warm you up during the colder December evenings. The combination of tender chicken, a velvety sauce, and the slight tang of sun-dried tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors that feel indulgent yet comforting. It’s a wonderful option for a festive dinner with loved ones or a luxurious weeknight meal.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables

A hearty, warm bowl of beef stew is a perfect choice for a December dinner. This Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables simmers all day to create a rich, flavorful dish. The slow cooking process infuses the beef with savory goodness while the root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips absorb the flavors from the broth. The result is a comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly winter evening.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat
• 4 cups beef broth
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp flour (optional for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Place the beef stew meat, carrots, potatoes, parsnips, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the beef broth and wine (if using), and stir to combine.
3. Add the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, then stir again.
4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a little water to make a slurry, and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables is the ultimate comfort food for December. The tender beef, soft vegetables, and savory broth create a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for cold nights. With minimal effort required, this recipe is ideal for busy days when you want a warm, filling dinner ready when you get home. The flavors are deep and hearty, making it a great dish for family gatherings or a casual winter meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Classic Beef Wellington

Beef Wellington is a classic and impressive dish, perfect for a December dinner, especially when entertaining guests. This recipe features tender beef tenderloin coated in a savory mushroom duxelles, wrapped in prosciutto, and encased in a golden, flaky puff pastry. The result is a showstopper meal that’s not only delicious but also a treat for the eyes. Though it takes a bit of time to prepare, the flavors and presentation are worth the effort, making it an ideal choice for holiday dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs beef tenderloin, trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 lb mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shallots, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 12 slices prosciutto
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides for about 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from heat and brush with Dijon mustard. Set aside to cool.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté shallots, garlic, and chopped mushrooms over medium heat. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and the mixture becomes dry, about 10 minutes. Stir in wine and cook until it evaporates, then add cream and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
4. Lay prosciutto slices on a sheet of plastic wrap, slightly overlapping. Spread the mushroom mixture evenly over the prosciutto. Place the beef tenderloin on top and roll it up tightly using the plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes.
5. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Remove the beef from the plastic wrap and place it in the center of the pastry. Fold the pastry around the beef, sealing the edges. Brush the pastry with the beaten egg.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Beef Wellington is the epitome of luxury and sophistication, making it the perfect centerpiece for a December dinner. The juicy beef tenderloin, earthy mushroom duxelles, salty prosciutto, and buttery puff pastry come together in a rich and indulgent dish that will leave your guests in awe. Though it may require some time and effort, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for your holiday gatherings, making any dinner feel like an extraordinary celebration.

Roasted Duck with Orange Glaze

Roasted Duck with Orange Glaze is an elegant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a festive December dinner. The duck is crisped to perfection on the outside while staying tender and juicy on the inside. The orange glaze adds a citrusy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the rich flavor of the duck. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or ringing in the New Year, this dish will impress your guests with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole duck (about 5-6 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 oranges, juiced and zested
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the duck dry with paper towels and rub it with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the duck on a roasting rack in a roasting pan and roast for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. While the duck is roasting, make the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
5. During the last 20 minutes of roasting, brush the duck with the orange glaze every 5-10 minutes.
6. Once the duck is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Roasted Duck with Orange Glaze is a sophisticated and flavorful dish that makes for an unforgettable December dinner. The crispy, rich duck skin, complemented by the sweet and tangy orange glaze, creates a perfect balance of flavors. This dish is ideal for special occasions like Christmas or New Year’s Eve, and it pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. The glossy finish from the glaze and the beautifully cooked duck make this recipe a showstopper that’s sure to delight your guests.

Christmas Stuffed Pork Loin Roast

A Stuffed Pork Loin Roast is a traditional and festive choice for a December dinner. The pork loin is stuffed with a savory mixture of apples, cranberries, and herbs, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Roasting it creates a tender, juicy centerpiece that’s perfect for holiday dinners. The stuffing adds extra flavor and texture, making this roast a memorable dish that will elevate any festive meal.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 lb boneless pork loin
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 apple, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butterfly the pork loin by slicing it horizontally, ensuring it opens like a book. Season the inside with salt and pepper.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, apple, cranberries, rosemary, and sage, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the breadcrumbs and chicken broth to moisten the mixture, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Stuff the pork loin with the apple-cranberry mixture, then roll it up and secure with kitchen twine.
6. Rub the outside of the pork loin with butter, salt, and pepper, then place it in a roasting pan.
7. Roast for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

This Christmas Stuffed Pork Loin Roast is a festive and flavorful dish that brings together the classic flavors of apples, cranberries, and herbs. The succulent pork, combined with the savory-sweet stuffing, creates a perfect holiday centerpiece that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether served for a family gathering or a special Christmas dinner, this roast will impress with its tender texture, rich flavor, and beautiful presentation. It’s a dish that’s sure to make your December meals even more special.

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb

An Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb is a luxurious dish that will undoubtedly elevate any December dinner. This recipe combines tender, succulent lamb with a flavorful herb crust, offering a burst of savory, aromatic goodness in every bite. The rack of lamb is roasted to perfection, creating a beautiful golden-brown crust while maintaining the juicy, tender meat inside. Ideal for special occasions like Christmas or New Year’s Eve, this dish is both a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds, making it a perfect showstopper for festive meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 rack of lamb (8 ribs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the rack of lamb with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Sear the lamb in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
3. Brush the lamb with Dijon mustard, then set aside to cool.
4. In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon zest.
5. Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the mustard-coated lamb to form an even crust.
6. Place the lamb on a roasting pan and roast for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare (or 25-30 minutes for medium). The internal temperature should reach 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
7. Remove from the oven, let rest for 10 minutes, then slice between the ribs into individual chops.

The Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb is an exceptional dish that’s perfect for a December celebration. The tender lamb combined with the rich herb crust creates a harmonious balance of flavors, making it an ideal centerpiece for holiday feasts. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, offering a dish that feels both indulgent and sophisticated. Whether it’s a Christmas dinner or New Year’s Eve gathering, this recipe will make your meal feel extraordinary and memorable.

Pecan-Crusted Salmon with Maple Glaze

Pecan-Crusted Salmon with Maple Glaze is a flavorful, festive dish that’s perfect for a lighter December dinner. The rich, buttery pecan crust enhances the salmon’s natural flavors, while the sweet and savory maple glaze adds a touch of holiday flair. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet, and it’s an ideal dish for guests who may be looking for something a bit different from the usual holiday fare. Quick and easy to prepare, this salmon dish will add sophistication to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets, skin on
• 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (for glaze)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Brush the tops of the salmon fillets with Dijon mustard and then press the pecan mixture onto the mustard-coated salmon, ensuring an even crust.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the salmon fillets, skin-side down, for 2-3 minutes, until the crust is golden.
5. Transfer the salmon to a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. While the salmon is baking, combine the maple syrup, soy sauce, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
7. Drizzle the maple glaze over the salmon fillets before serving.

Pecan-Crusted Salmon with Maple Glaze is a delightful dish that combines the richness of salmon with the crunch of pecans and the sweetness of maple syrup. It’s a light yet flavorful option for a December dinner, offering a sophisticated twist on a classic seafood dish. The glaze adds a festive touch that elevates the salmon, making it perfect for holiday dinners. Whether you’re celebrating a family gathering or an intimate dinner, this dish brings an elegant and flavorful option to your table.

Baked Stuffed Shrimp with Garlic and Parmesan

Baked Stuffed Shrimp with Garlic and Parmesan is a simple yet elegant dish that works wonderfully for December dinner parties or holiday meals. Large shrimp are stuffed with a flavorful garlic, butter, and Parmesan mixture, then baked to golden perfection. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers and makes for an impressive starter or main course. The richness of the garlic butter and the savory Parmesan filling pair beautifully with the sweetness of the shrimp, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will leave your guests asking for more.

Ingredients:

• 16 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Carefully cut a small slit along the back of each shrimp and gently stuff each one with the garlic-Parmesan mixture.
4. Place the stuffed shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the stuffing is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.

Baked Stuffed Shrimp with Garlic and Parmesan is a delectable and festive dish that makes for a perfect appetizer or main course for your December dinner. The shrimp are tender and juicy, while the savory stuffing adds a rich depth of flavor that’s sure to please any seafood enthusiast. This dish is incredibly versatile, whether served as part of a holiday feast or a special date night dinner. Its elegant presentation and delicious flavors make it a standout dish that will impress your guests without too much effort.

Slow Cooker Beef Wellington

Slow Cooker Beef Wellington is a twist on the classic British dish, making it an ideal choice for an effortless yet impressive December dinner. This version uses a slow cooker to tenderize the beef, ensuring the meat is perfectly cooked while reducing the hands-on time required. The beef is enveloped in a savory mushroom duxelles and wrapped in a golden, flaky puff pastry. The result is a rich and flavorful dish that combines the tenderness of the beef with the earthiness of the mushrooms and the crispness of the pastry. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this dish will be the centerpiece of any festive table.

Ingredients:

• 2 lb beef tenderloin
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef on all sides until browned. Brush the beef with Dijon mustard and set aside to cool.
2. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms until softened and the moisture from the mushrooms evaporates. Add white wine and thyme, cooking for another 5 minutes until the mixture is dry and fragrant. Allow to cool.
3. Lay out the puff pastry on a sheet of parchment paper. Spread the mushroom mixture evenly over the center of the pastry. Place the beef on top and wrap the pastry around the beef, sealing the edges.
4. Place the wrapped beef into the slow cooker on a piece of parchment paper. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the beef reaches your desired doneness.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the beef to a baking sheet, brush with the egg wash, and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
6. Slice and serve.

Slow Cooker Beef Wellington is a perfect dish for those looking to impress guests without the hassle of constant supervision. The slow cooking process ensures a melt-in-your-mouth beef tenderloin, while the rich mushroom filling and golden puff pastry elevate the dish to an elegant level. This recipe is perfect for special December dinners like Christmas Eve or New Year’s celebrations. It’s a sophisticated, crowd-pleasing option that combines classic flavors with a modern, time-saving twist.

Cranberry-Orange Glazed Roast Duck

Cranberry-Orange Glazed Roast Duck is a festive dish that combines the richness of duck with a tangy, sweet glaze, perfect for a December feast. The vibrant cranberry and orange glaze infuses the duck with bright, zesty flavors, complementing the naturally rich and tender meat. This dish is ideal for holiday dinners or special occasions, offering a luxurious alternative to traditional roast meats. The crispy skin and flavorful glaze make each bite a delightful contrast of textures and tastes, making it a showstopping main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole duck (4-5 lbs)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cloves
• 1 tbsp orange zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season the duck with salt and pepper, then place it on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
3. Roast the duck for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting occasionally with its own juices, until the skin is golden and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. While the duck is roasting, make the glaze: In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
5. Stir in the orange zest and remove from heat.
6. About 20 minutes before the duck is done, brush the cranberry-orange glaze generously over the duck. Continue roasting, basting every 10 minutes, until the duck is fully cooked and glazed.
7. Remove the duck from the oven, let rest for 10 minutes, then carve and serve with the remaining glaze.

Cranberry-Orange Glazed Roast Duck is a luxurious and festive dish perfect for December celebrations. The combination of rich duck with the bright, tangy glaze offers a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner, New Year’s Eve party, or other special events, this roast duck will surely impress. The crispy skin, succulent meat, and aromatic glaze make it a standout centerpiece that adds elegance and warmth to any holiday meal.

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa and Cranberries

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa and Cranberries is a wholesome, vegetarian dish that brings warmth and comfort to your December dinner table. This recipe features acorn squash filled with a flavorful mixture of quinoa, dried cranberries, nuts, and spices, making it a delightful option for vegetarians or those looking for a lighter side dish to complement a heavy meal. The sweet, nutty flavors of the quinoa stuffing pair wonderfully with the natural sweetness of the squash, while the cranberries add a festive touch. This dish is both filling and nutritious, perfect for holiday feasts.

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeded
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the acorn squash halves on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes until the flesh is tender and golden.
3. While the squash is roasting, cook the quinoa. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
4. Stir in the dried cranberries, nuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the cooked quinoa. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
5. Once the squash is roasted, remove it from the oven and fill each squash half with the quinoa mixture.
6. Return the stuffed squashes to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the filling is warmed through.
7. Drizzle with maple syrup and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa and Cranberries is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for December dinners. It offers a healthy, festive alternative to more traditional meat-heavy meals, while still feeling indulgent. The quinoa filling, combined with the sweetness of the acorn squash and cranberries, creates a satisfying and flavorful experience. This dish can serve as a main course for vegetarians or as a side for meat lovers, offering a delicious balance of textures and tastes that will enhance your holiday spread.

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a decadent and flavorful dish that’s perfect for December dinner celebrations. The lamb is coated in a fragrant herb crust, which provides a savory and aromatic exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy on the inside. Paired with creamy garlic mashed potatoes, this dish offers a rich and comforting balance. Whether for Christmas or a special occasion, this meal is sure to impress your guests with its elegance, flavor, and festive appeal.

Ingredients:

• 1 rack of lamb (about 8 ribs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the rack of lamb with salt and pepper, then sear it in olive oil over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from heat and brush with Dijon mustard.
3. In a bowl, combine rosemary, thyme, garlic, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Press this herb mixture onto the lamb to coat it evenly.
4. Place the lamb on a roasting rack and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness.
5. While the lamb is roasting, make the mashed potatoes. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
6. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the cream and stir to combine.
7. Drain the potatoes and mash them. Add the garlic butter mixture and season with salt and pepper. Continue mashing until smooth and creamy.
8. Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before carving.
9. Serve the lamb with the garlic mashed potatoes.

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb with Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a luxurious and flavorful dish that will elevate any December dinner. The combination of tender lamb with a fragrant herb crust and the creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes makes for an indulgent meal that’s both comforting and festive. This dish is ideal for a holiday feast or any special occasion, offering a balance of savory flavors and elegant presentation that will impress your guests.

Baked Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce

Baked Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce is a fresh and light dish that’s perfect for a healthy December dinner. The salmon is perfectly baked with a touch of olive oil and seasoning, and it’s topped with a zesty, creamy lemon-dill sauce that enhances the flavors of the fish. This recipe is simple to prepare yet full of flavor, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a delicious but lighter alternative to heavier holiday meals. The bright, citrusy flavors of the sauce pair perfectly with the rich, buttery salmon.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp capers, optional

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
4. While the salmon is baking, prepare the lemon-dill sauce by combining Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, lemon zest, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Stir well to combine.
5. Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
6. Serve the salmon with a generous spoonful of the lemon-dill sauce on top. Garnish with capers if desired.

Baked Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce offers a light, flavorful, and refreshing option for a December dinner. The richness of the salmon is balanced beautifully by the tangy, creamy sauce, making this dish both satisfying and healthy. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a festive meal without the heaviness of traditional holiday dishes. Whether for a quiet family dinner or a more formal gathering, this dish will bring a bright, fresh note to your December dining.

Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers

Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers are a flavorful and filling dish perfect for a comforting December dinner. The peppers are filled with a hearty mixture of rice, beans, vegetables, and seasonings, then baked until tender and topped with cheese. This recipe is a great option for vegetarians or anyone looking for a healthy, yet satisfying meal. The colorful peppers add a festive touch, and the combination of beans, rice, and vegetables makes it a well-rounded and nutritious dish that can stand alone or be served as a side.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 cup cooked rice (brown or white)
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, pressing gently to pack the filling inside.
4. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the peppers are tender.
5. Remove the foil, sprinkle the tops of the peppers with shredded cheese, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delightful and satisfying dish that brings warmth and color to your December dinner table. Packed with a variety of flavors from the rice, beans, corn, and spices, these peppers offer a healthy, wholesome option for a holiday meal. The melted cheese on top adds a comforting touch, making this a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you serve it as a main course for vegetarians or as a hearty side dish, it’s a great way to enjoy a nutritious, festive meal.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!