Cold Side Dishes are a game-changer for your Christmas feast, offering a refreshing balance to rich and hearty holiday meals. Whether you’re preparing a festive buffet or a sit-down dinner, having cold sides means less stress in the kitchen while ensuring a delightful variety of flavors and textures. From vibrant salads and creamy dips to savory cheese platters, these dishes are effortless to prepare and can be made ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy the festivities.
What makes these Cold Side Dishes special is their versatility and freshness. A well-curated spread can include crisp winter salads with pomegranate and nuts, tangy coleslaw with cranberries, or a chilled potato salad with a zesty twist. These sides not only enhance your main course but also add a pop of color and seasonal flavors to your holiday table.
If you want stress-free hosting, these Cold Side Dishes will be your secret weapon. Get ready to impress your guests with delicious, easy, and festive dishes that make your Christmas even more memorable!
Mashed Peas
Mashed Peas are a vibrant and flavorful addition to your Cold Side Dishes, offering a creamy texture with a hint of natural sweetness. Unlike traditional mashed potatoes, mashed peas provide a lighter, fresher alternative while packing a nutritional punch. Rich in fiber and protein, they make a great complement to holiday mains like roasted turkey or ham. The best part? They require minimal ingredients and can be made ahead of time, reducing holiday kitchen stress.
To make mashed peas, simply steam or boil fresh or frozen peas until tender, then blend them with butter, cream, and a touch of garlic or mint for added depth of flavor. For a healthier twist, swap out the cream with Greek yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil. This dish is not only nutrient-dense but also adds a beautiful pop of green to your festive spread.
Serve mashed peas alongside hearty Christmas entrees, or use them as a spread for crackers and crostini. Their mild sweetness pairs beautifully with salty or smoky flavors, making them a versatile cold side that enhances any holiday meal. Whether you’re catering to vegetarians or looking for a refreshing contrast to rich dishes, this easy-to-make side is a must-have.
Broccoli Slaw
Broccoli Slaw is a crisp, refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw and a perfect choice for Cold Side Dishes at Christmas gatherings. Made with shredded broccoli stems, carrots, and cabbage, this slaw is both nutritious and full of flavor. The crunchy texture and light dressing make it an excellent palate cleanser between bites of heavier holiday fare.
One of the best things about broccoli slaw is its versatility. You can dress it up with dried cranberries, toasted almonds, or a tangy vinaigrette to add extra holiday flair. Some variations use a creamy dressing with mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar, while others keep it light with lemon juice and olive oil. No matter your choice, this salad is easy to prepare and stays fresh in the fridge, making it an ideal make-ahead dish.
Pair broccoli slaw with roasted meats or sandwiches or as a topping for sliders. Its bold crunch and refreshing taste make it an essential component of any Christmas spread, offering a much-needed balance to rich, decadent dishes.
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry Sauce is a holiday staple that adds a sweet and tangy element to your Cold Side Dishes lineup. Made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange zest, this sauce brings a delightful contrast to savory Christmas dishes like turkey, ham, and stuffing. Whether served whole or smooth, cranberry sauce is a must-have condiment for the festive season.
Making homemade cranberry sauce is simple and allows you to control the sweetness and texture. Simmer fresh cranberries with sugar and orange juice until they burst, creating a thick, jam-like consistency. For added depth, consider spicing it up with cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of brandy. Letting it chill enhances its flavors, making it a perfect make-ahead side dish.
Beyond serving it as a traditional side, cranberry sauce pairs wonderfully with cheese boards, sandwiches and even as a glaze for meats. Its bold color and zesty flavor make it a festive and indispensable part of your Christmas feast.
Christmas Pasta Salad
Christmas Pasta Salad is a festive and flavorful addition to any holiday menu, offering a perfect balance of tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressing. As one of the most crowd-pleasing Cold Side Dishes, it can be customized with a variety of ingredients to suit different tastes.
A great Christmas pasta salad typically includes red and green elements, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, spinach, and basil, to enhance its seasonal appeal. Tossed in a light vinaigrette or creamy dressing, this dish brings together a medley of textures and flavors that pair beautifully with roasted meats and seafood. Adding extras like feta cheese, olives, or toasted nuts can elevate the dish even further.
Best of all, Christmas pasta salad is an easy make-ahead side that allows flavors to meld overnight, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday spread. Serve it chilled for a refreshing contrast to warm entrees, ensuring a well-balanced and visually stunning meal.
Fresh Cranberry Relish
Fresh Cranberry Relish is a tangy and slightly sweet alternative to traditional cranberry sauce, making it a standout among Cold Side Dishes. This relish is made with fresh cranberries, citrus zest, and a hint of honey or sugar, offering a bright and refreshing flavor. Unlike cooked cranberry sauce, this version maintains a crisp texture that adds a delightful crunch to your holiday spread.
The best part about fresh cranberry relish is its no-cook preparation. Simply blend cranberries with oranges, apples, and a touch of sweetener for a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted meats and cheese platters. Some variations even include chopped nuts or ginger for added depth. Letting it sit in the fridge overnight allows the flavors to meld, making it an ideal make-ahead dish.
Serve fresh cranberry relish as a side for turkey or ham, use it as a topping for sandwiches, or mix it into salads for an extra zing. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a holiday favorite that stands out among rich, savory dishes.
Easy Broccoli Bacon Salad
Easy Broccoli Bacon Salad is a perfect combination of crunchy, creamy, and smoky flavors, making it a must-have in your Cold Side Dishes lineup. This salad features fresh broccoli florets, crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and a creamy dressing, delivering a satisfying bite with every spoonful.
One of the highlights of this dish is its delicious balance of flavors and textures. The broccoli remains crisp, while the bacon adds a smoky crunch, and the cheese provides a creamy element. A tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of honey or sugar ties everything together, creating an irresistible side dish. You can also add extras like sunflower seeds or dried cranberries for more variety.
This easy broccoli-bacon salad is best when made ahead, as chilling enhances the flavors. Serve it alongside grilled meats, roasted poultry, or holiday casseroles for a well-rounded meal. Its freshness and crunch offer a wonderful contrast to heavier holiday dishes.
Beets with Mandarin Oranges
Beets with Mandarin Oranges is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the citrusy brightness of mandarin oranges. As one of the most colorful Cold Side Dishes, it not only looks stunning on the table but also provides a refreshing contrast to richer holiday foods.
Preparing this dish is incredibly simple. Roasted or boiled beets are sliced and tossed with juicy mandarin oranges, then drizzled with a light vinaigrette made of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. The natural sweetness of the oranges enhances the beets’ deep flavor, creating a well-balanced bite. Some variations include toasted walnuts or goat cheese for extra texture and creaminess.
Beets with mandarin oranges can be served as a standalone salad or paired with holiday entrees like glazed ham or roasted turkey. Its refreshing citrus notes and natural sweetness make it a delightful addition to any festive meal, ensuring a balanced and visually appealing holiday spread.
Classic Savory Deviled Eggs
Classic Savory Deviled Eggs are a holiday favorite that never goes out of style, making them a perfect addition to your Cold Side Dishes selection. These bite-sized delights are creamy, tangy, and full of flavor, offering a satisfying appetizer or side dish that complements a variety of holiday meals.
To make classic savory deviled eggs, hard-boiled eggs are halved and filled with a rich and velvety yolk mixture made with mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and seasonings. Some variations include paprika, chives, or crispy bacon for added depth. The result is a smooth and flavorful bite that pairs well with other festive dishes.
These easy-to-make deviled eggs can be prepared in advance, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations. Serve them as part of a Christmas appetizer platter alongside cheese boards, meats, and cold salads, ensuring a well-rounded and delicious feast.
Mizeria (Polish Cucumber Salad)
Mizeria (Polish Cucumber Salad) is a refreshing and creamy dish that brings a unique European flair to your Cold Side Dishes. Made with thinly sliced cucumbers, sour cream, dill, and a touch of lemon juice, this salad offers a light yet satisfying contrast to heavier holiday dishes.
The secret to a great Mizeria lies in the freshness of the cucumbers. Using fresh cucumbers ensures a refreshing bite, while the creamy dressing enhances the overall flavor. Some variations include red onions or garlic for extra depth. This dish is easy to prepare and tastes even better after chilling, making it a convenient make-ahead side.
Serve Mizeria alongside roasted meats, pierogies, or seafood, or enjoy it as a standalone salad. Its cool, tangy, and creamy texture makes it a must-have for holiday feasts, offering a refreshing balance to rich and savory meals.
Maple-Dijon Brussels Leaf Salad
Maple-Dijon Brussels Leaf Salad is a sophisticated and flavorful option among Cold Side Dishes, offering a balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty notes. This salad transforms Brussels sprouts into a delicate, fresh dish by using only the leaves, giving it a tender and crisp texture.
The key to making this salad stand out is the homemade maple-Dijon dressing, a combination of pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar. This dressing coats the Brussels leaves beautifully, adding a sweet and tangy depth to every bite. Toasted pecans or walnuts provide a crunchy contrast, while dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds add a pop of color and sweetness.
This easy-to-prepare salad is a great make-ahead dish, as the flavors improve over time. Serve it alongside roasted meats, cheese platters, or holiday mains, and enjoy the refreshing contrast it brings to the table.
Cold Asparagus with Prosciutto and Lemon
A refreshing and elegant cold side dish, Cold Asparagus with Prosciutto and Lemon is the perfect blend of crisp-tender asparagus, savory prosciutto, and a bright citrusy finish. This dish is simple to prepare yet delivers a gourmet touch to any holiday spread. Asparagus, when cooked correctly, retains a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the rich, salty flavor of prosciutto. The lemon juice not only enhances the flavors but also helps maintain the asparagus’s vibrant green color, making it visually appealing on any festive table. Whether you’re preparing a light appetizer or an accompaniment to roasted meats, this dish offers a well-balanced combination of textures and flavors that guests will love.
One of the reasons why this cold side dish stands out is its simplicity and versatility. To prepare it, asparagus spears are lightly blanched to preserve their crunch before being wrapped in delicate slices of prosciutto. The final touch of lemon zest and juice adds a refreshing citrus note that complements the savory elements without overpowering them. For added depth, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper can enhance the overall taste. This dish can be served as a standalone appetizer, part of a charcuterie board, or alongside hearty mains like roasted poultry or grilled seafood.
In addition to its incredible flavor, Cold Asparagus with Prosciutto and Lemon is a great option for those looking for healthy cold side dishes. Asparagus is packed with fiber and vitamins A, C, and K, while prosciutto provides a protein boost. The lemon juice adds an extra dose of vitamin C, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious. Perfect for holiday gatherings, summer picnics, or as a light meal prep option, this dish is a must-try for those who love bold flavors in a simple, easy-to-make recipe.
Cranberry, Glazed Walnut, Orange, Avocado, and Blue Cheese Salad
When it comes to cold side dishes that are both colorful and flavorful, this Cranberry, Glazed Walnut, Orange, Avocado, and Blue Cheese Salad is a showstopper. Combining the tangy sweetness of dried cranberries with the crunch of glazed walnuts, this salad creates a delightful contrast of textures. The juicy orange segments bring a burst of freshness, while the creamy avocado adds a smooth, buttery component that ties everything together. The addition of crumbled blue cheese introduces a sharp, slightly salty flavor, balancing the natural sweetness of the fruit and nuts. This salad is not only visually appealing but also offers a well-rounded mix of flavors that make it a standout dish for holiday meals or special occasions.
The combination of ingredients in this salad makes it an excellent choice for those seeking nutrient-dense cold side dishes. Cranberries are loaded with antioxidants, walnuts provide heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and avocado offers a dose of healthy fats that keep you full and satisfied. The bright, zesty notes from fresh oranges enhance the salad’s overall appeal, making it a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday entrees. To bring all the flavors together, a homemade citrus vinaigrette made with olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and fresh orange juice adds the perfect finishing touch.
Beyond its health benefits, this Cranberry, Glazed Walnut, Orange, Avocado, and Blue Cheese Salad is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a light side dish, a topping for grilled meats, or even as a standalone meal with added protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. The balance of sweet, tart, creamy, and crunchy elements ensures that every bite is full of flavor. Whether served at a holiday feast, summer barbecue, or casual family dinner, this salad is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Onions, Spinach, and Craisins® Recipe
A perfect balance of sweet, savory, and earthy flavors, this Roasted Butternut Squash with Onions, Spinach, and Craisins® Recipe is a must-have for anyone looking for cold side dishes that offer both nutrition and bold taste. Butternut squash, when roasted, develops a caramelized exterior with a soft, creamy interior that pairs beautifully with the slightly crispy roasted onions. The addition of Craisins® introduces a subtle sweetness, enhancing the natural flavors of the squash and spinach. This dish is not only a great complement to hearty main courses, but it also stands out as a nutrient-dense option perfect for health-conscious eaters.
One of the standout features of this cold side dish is its ability to be made ahead of time and served chilled or at room temperature. Roasting the butternut squash and onions allows the natural sugars to develop, creating a deep, rich flavor. The addition of fresh spinach provides a contrast in texture and a boost of vitamins and minerals, while the Craisins® contribute a chewy bite that enhances the overall experience. A simple dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey helps bring all the flavors together, ensuring that each ingredient shines without overpowering the dish.
Aside from its impressive taste, this Roasted Butternut Squash with Onions, Spinach, and Craisins® Recipe is packed with essential nutrients. Butternut squash is an excellent source of vitamin A, fiber, and potassium, while spinach provides iron and antioxidants. The Craisins® add a hint of natural sweetness while offering additional fiber and nutrients. Whether served as part of a holiday spread, a meal-prep option for busy weekdays, or a side dish for roasted meats, this dish is both delicious and nourishing. It is an ideal choice for those looking to elevate their selection of cold side dishes with something unique and flavorful.
