Christmas is too short for stress-induced meltdowns. These 13 make-ahead side dishes will help you have a hassle-free holiday, so you can coast through Christmas dinner with a glass of eggnog in hand.
![Pistachio salad topped with nuts and cherries.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/pistachio-salad-21-edited.jpg)
Broccoli Crunch Salad
![A close shot of a fork full of broccoli salad.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/broccoli-salad-17-1200x800-1-edited.jpg)
Dive into the festive season with a Broccoli Crunch Salad that actually improves as it sits. Packed with a smoky bacon punch and a variety of textures, it’s the side that will have everyone asking for more. Just whip it up, pop it in the fridge, and it’s ready to roll out when the Christmas feast begins.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad
Cranberry Fluff
![A bowl of pink cranberry dip with a wooden spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/cranberry-fluff-6-2-1.jpg)
Imagine a side that’s as playful as it is delectable—that’s your Cranberry Fluff. It’s a breeze to make this creamy dish in advance, blending tart cranberries with sweet marshmallows. It will add a stress-free, flavorful surprise to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Fluff
Ramen Noodle Salad
![Three white bowls filled with ramen noodles and vegetables.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/ramen-salad-3-1200x800-1.jpg)
Shake things up with a Ramen Noodle Salad that keeps its cool, even as the holiday hustle heats up. This dish is a real crowd-pleaser with its playful crunch, and it’s just perfect for making ahead. Serve this up for a fuss-free side that’s as memorable as your Christmas moments.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Noodle Salad
Amish Macaroni Salad
![Bowl of Amish macaroni salad with some on a spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/amish-macaroni-salad-1260846-edited.jpg)
This Amish Macaroni Salad is your holiday time-saver, marinating in all the right flavors while you’re ticking off your festive checklist. It’s a comforting classic that everyone’s happy to see at the table, just like an old friend. Make it ahead and so you can join in the holiday fun.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad
Chickpea Salad
![Healthy chickpea salad in a blue bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/chickpea-salad-1.jpg)
For a fresh twist, this Chickpea Salad is a real game-changer on the Christmas menu. It’s super simple to prepare and tastes even better after a day of chilling. This dish is the definition of a no-stress side, full of flavor and ready to complement your festive feast.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Salad
Watergate Salad
![Pistachio salad topped with nuts and cherries.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/pistachio-salad-21-edited.jpg)
Jump into the joy of the season with a batch of Watergate Salad, the fluffy, nutty side that’s oh-so-easy to make. Prepare it ahead of the big day and see it become the star of your holiday meal. It’s an easy, quirky choice that’s bound to spark conversation and nostaligia.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad
Pea Salad
![Pea salad in a blue bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/pea-salad-14.jpg)
Pea Salad is the side that screams ‘easy Christmas win.’ Mix it up, let it chill, and it’s good to go whenever you’re ready to serve. This creamy, tangy dish is a chilled-out addition to your meal, so you more time to relax with your guests.
Get the Recipe: Pea Salad
Lime Jello Salad
![Piece of lime jello salad topped with whipped cream and a cherry.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/lime-jello-salad-1250702.jpg)
Add some fun to your Christmas menu with a Lime Jello Salad that’s sure to draw smiles. This cool, tangy treat sets up on its own, freeing you up for other festivities. Present this wobbly, green delight that’s a cinch to prep.
Get the Recipe: Lime Jello Salad
7 Layer Salad
![Seven layer salad in a bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/seven-layer-salad.jpg)
Let the 7 Layer Salad be the centerpiece that takes the pressure off on Christmas Day. It’s a stunning, layered concoction that you can prepare well in advance, ensuring a worry-free holiday.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad
Amish Potato Salad
![Spoonful of potato salad.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/potatoes-1260132.jpg)
Savor the flavors of home with an Amish Potato Salad. The creamy dressing infused with mustard, sugar, and celery seed is comforting and delicious. It’s the perfect make-ahead side for Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad
Cherry Salad
![Cherry fluff salad in blue bowls with whipped cream.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/cherry-salad-9.jpg)
Also known as “Pink Fluff,” this Cherry Salad is a sweet retreat from the holiday madness. Just six ingredients and you’ve got a side that’s effortless to create. Make this dreamy dish in advance and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad
Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
![Closeup of tomatoes and mozzarella in a bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/caprese-salad-1250760.jpg)
Caprese Salad showcases a classic combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, making it a holiday favorite. It’s the perfect light, make-ahead dish to balance out the hearty Christmas main courses.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Orange Fluff Salad
![Orange fluff salad in a bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/orange-fluff-salad-11-of-12-1200x901-1.jpg)
The Orange Fluff Salad is your ticket to a sweet, citrusy side that everyone will adore. This beloved classic is effortless to prep, leaving you more time to soak in the festive spirit.
Get the Recipe: Orange Fluff Salad