The holiday season is a time to slow down, share laughter in the kitchen, and savor the joy of gathering around the table. Whether your family celebrates Christmas, Chanukah, or something else, these recipes are meant to bring people together.
For many years, we’ve gathered with friends for what we affectionately called “Chrishanukah” — a blended Christmas & Chanukah celebration of food and friendship.
This holiday recipe roundup features wholesome dishes made with clean, nourishing ingredients — the kind that make everyone feel good, no matter their dietary needs or traditions.
From comforting classics to festive sides and sweets, this collection celebrates what truly matters most: slowing down, sharing good food, and cherishing the moments together.
More than just a meal, this brisket, lovingly made by my mom (“Mima”), is part of my heritage. Brisket has always held a place on our table during the Jewish holidays, filling the house with its rich aroma and bringing everyone together.
Holiday Spiral Ham with Citrus-Spice Glaze
My friend promises that it is as easy as it is delicious! The glaze, made with orange juice, honey, and a blend of warm spices, creates a golden, aromatic finish that instantly makes your home feel like the holidays.
Our Grilled Salmon with Blueberry Sauce is a family favorite and the perfect blend of savory and sweet. Whether you’re preparing a meal for the family or hosting guests, this dish pairs beautifully with seasonal vegetables for a wholesome, delicious dinner.
Warm Green Salad with Honeyed Pears, Cranberries, & Pomegranate
We make this dish so often that it’s simply referred to as “kale salad” in our home. The contrast between the tanginess and bitter quality of the lemon juice and kale alongside the sweetness of the pear, cranberries, pomegranate and honey creates perfect balance. Our tip to you: Make a triple batch!
The magic happens in the oven, where simple florets are transformed into a dish with crispy, golden-brown edges and a tender center full of flavor. It’s a win for both nutrition and taste!
This recipe is so simple but so tasty. When you roast carrots, you harness their natural sweetness—but the herbs make this a savory side dish.
Roasted Delicata Squash Half Moons
Simple, naturally sweet, and beautifully caramelized, these are one of our favorite easy holiday sides. With just olive oil, salt, and a touch of cinnamon, delicata squash transforms into a tender, golden dish that pairs perfectly with any festive meal.
Mima’s Chanukah Latkes (Potato Pancakes)
Latke is the Yiddish word for “pancake.” It is a Chanukah tradition to serve latkes, which are basically grated potato pancakes fried in oil, to celebrate the Chanukah miracle—that a small amount of oil burned for eight consecutive days.
Kasha Varnishkes (Kasha & Bow-tie Noodles)
Kasha varnishkes is a traditional Ashkenazi (Eastern European) Jewish dish that combines kasha (toasted buckwheat groats) with noodles, typically farfalle bow-tie pasta.
Growing up, I remember sitting around the table with my family, savoring my mom’s perfectly fluffy matzoh balls in a bowl of warm chicken soup—a staple in our home during Jewish holidays.
Maple-Glazed Walnuts, Pumpkin Seeds & Cranberries
There’s something about the combination of sweet maple, crunchy nuts, and tart cranberries that tastes like the holidays! These Maple-Glazed Walnuts, Pumpkin Seeds & Cranberries make a beautiful and nourishing snack to have on hand throughout the season.
There’s something about a sparkling drink that makes even an ordinary day feel special. This Pomegranate Mint Spritzer is simple enough for an afternoon drink with friends but beautiful enough for a holiday table
Perfect for cookie exchanges, gifting, or enjoying by the fire with a cup of tea, these cookies are a simple festive treat that everyone will love.
