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HOLIDAYS · CHRISTMAS 2026
Five festive centrepieces for a table worth gathering around—with a vegetarian option that deserves the spotlight.
Image disclaimer: All pictures in this article were generated with AI for inspiration and illustration. They do not depict actual properties, prepared dishes, or specific events.
Christmas dinner does not need a completely new menu to feel special. One memorable main, a few reliable sides, and a little preparation can make the evening feel generous without making the kitchen frantic. These are my five editorial picks for a delicious Christmas table in 2026—not a ranking of nationwide food trends.
1. Beef Wellington with a red-wine-style jus
For a smaller celebration with a little ceremony, Wellington is hard to beat: golden pastry, an earthy mushroom layer, and neatly carved slices. It brings its own sense of occasion, so the sides can stay simple. Serve with green beans and roasted carrots, and keep the sauce in a jug so the pastry remains crisp. Hosting tip: choose a trusted recipe and plan the chilling stages carefully. This is a centrepiece for an organised cooking day, rather than a last-minute addition.
2. Maple-orange glazed ham
A beautifully glazed ham is a welcoming choice for a larger gathering. Maple adds rounded sweetness, orange brings brightness, and a little mustard keeps the flavour balanced. Bring it to the table with roasted potatoes and a sharp cabbage or apple slaw. Hosting tip: check whether your ham is fully cooked or requires cooking, and follow the producer’s instructions. Use the same orange-and-herb palette on the platter for a festive presentation that needs very little extra decoration.
3. Miso-maple roasted salmon
For a lighter-feeling centrepiece, a whole side of salmon makes an elegant change from a traditional roast. Miso gives savoury depth, maple softens the edges, and citrus cuts through the richness. Add green vegetables and rice pilaf, or serve it alongside roast potatoes if you want to keep the rest of your menu familiar. Hosting tip: mix the glaze and organise the garnish ahead, then cook close to serving. Put the fillet on a large platter so everyone can help themselves.
4. Mushroom, spinach, and squash Wellington
A vegetarian main should feel every bit as considered as the meat dishes. Mushrooms bring depth, roasted squash adds sweetness and colour, and spinach creates a beautiful layered slice inside crisp pastry. Serve with mushroom gravy and a bright green salad. Hosting tip: cook moisture out of the vegetables and cool the filling before wrapping, following your chosen recipe. If guests require a vegan version, check the pastry, glaze, and sauce ingredients rather than assuming a vegetarian Wellington is vegan.
5. Roast duck with cherry sauce
Roast duck brings rich flavour and a beautiful amber finish to an intimate Christmas dinner. A tart cherry sauce balances the richness, while thyme, roast potatoes, and bitter greens keep the plate grounded. It is an especially appealing option when you want something different from turkey without losing the feeling of a festive roast. Hosting tip: match the number of birds to your guest count using your recipe’s serving guidance, and plan the oven schedule before committing to several hot side dishes.
Build a menu you can enjoy too
Choose one main, two vegetables, one starch, and a dessert you can prepare in advance. Ask guests about dietary needs early, then write down what goes into the oven and when. A thoughtful menu leaves room for the best part of dinner: sitting down together.
