25 holiday dishes that’ll let you travel the world without leaving the table

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The holidays are the perfect time to gather around the table and celebrate the flavors of the world. These 25 recipes bring a global flair to your festive meals, offering a taste of traditions from across continents. From hearty mains to sweet desserts, each dish transforms your table into an international celebration. Let these flavors remind you that the joy of the holidays can be found in every bite, no matter where it comes from.

Leche flan caramel creme brulee on a plate with a spoon.
Filipino Leche Flan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)

Overhead view of hand lifting a spoon of salad.
Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad). Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This Russian vinaigrette salad features vibrant root vegetables, pickles, and dill, reflecting Eastern European holiday traditions. Its bold flavors and colorful presentation make it a perfect addition to a global-themed holiday table. Simple to prepare, it pairs well with a variety of dishes, adding versatility to your feast. This salad is a flavorful celebration of the festive spirit found in Russian cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)

Pouding Chômeur with Date Syrup

A bowl of dessert featuring a scoop of vanilla ice cream, sliced fruit, and chopped nuts on top, with a spoon at the side.
Pouding Chomeur with Date Syrup. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This classic Quebec dessert combines soft cake with a rich date syrup for a truly Canadian holiday treat. Its comforting sweetness and simplicity make it a memorable addition to your global holiday spread. Perfect for serving after a rich meal, it captures the spirit of sharing and warmth during the holidays. This dessert offers a delicious glimpse into Canada’s culinary traditions.
Get the Recipe: Pouding Chômeur with Date Syrup

Creamy Baked Feta Dip Appetizer with Dates, Hazelnuts, and Honey

A dish with a block of cheese topped with nuts, herbs, and dried fruits in a ceramic dish being held by a person.
Creamy Baked Feta Dip Appetizer with Dates, Hazelnuts, and Honey. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

This baked feta dip combines the rich flavors of dates, hazelnuts, and honey for a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer. Its creamy texture and balanced sweetness make it an excellent choice for a festive holiday table. Easy to prepare yet elegant, it’s perfect for impressing guests while celebrating global flavors. This dish brings the warmth and hospitality of Mediterranean dining traditions to your gathering.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Baked Feta Dip Appetizer with Dates, Hazelnuts, and Honey

Easy Moussaka Recipe

Close-up of a cheesy baked casserole topped with fresh green herbs, featuring browned edges and a portion removed, revealing creamy layers inside.
Easy Moussaka Recipe. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This traditional Greek moussaka layers eggplant, lentils, and spices, making it a hearty addition to your holiday feast. It embodies the festive spirit of Mediterranean celebrations with its rich flavors and bold presentation. Easy to make, it brings depth and authenticity to your global menu. This dish transports your table straight to Greece, offering a taste of tradition and festivity.
Get the Recipe: Easy Moussaka Recipe

Chicken and Date Casserole

A plate with roasted chicken, sweet potato wedges, olives, and herbs. A fork rests beside the food.
Chicken and Date Casserole. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This chicken and date casserole infuses sweet and savory flavors inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine. With ingredients like caramelized dates, olives, and capers, it creates a rich, festive dish perfect for holiday gatherings. Its hearty and flavorful nature makes it a standout on a diverse holiday menu. This recipe embodies the warmth and generosity of Middle Eastern celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Date Casserole

My Baked Brie Cheese Dip

A wooden bowl filled with roasted squash pieces topped with chopped pecans and herbs.
Baked Brie Cheese Dip Appetizer. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

This French-inspired baked brie dip, topped with honey and nuts, adds a luxurious touch to any holiday table. Its creamy texture and sweet-savory combination make it a standout appetizer that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for entertaining, it reflects the indulgent spirit of holiday gatherings. This dish brings a taste of French elegance to your festive celebration.
Get the Recipe: My Baked Brie Cheese Dip

My Festive Christmas Bruschetta

A festive platter with bruschetta topped with ricotta, cranberries, and herbs on a gold tray, surrounded by holiday decorations.
Festive Christmas Bruschetta. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

This Christmas bruschetta combines goat cheese, cranberries, garlic, and herbs for a flavorful holiday appetizer. Its Italian roots and festive colors make it a visually stunning and delicious start to your global holiday feast. Easy to prepare, it’s a great way to highlight the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. This bruschetta adds both charm and flavor to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: My Festive Christmas Bruschetta

Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano)

Colombian tamales on a plate.
Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano). Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

These Colombian tamales feature tender chicken wrapped in banana leaves, showcasing the vibrant traditions of South America. Their bold flavors and rich seasoning make them a festive addition to any global holiday spread. Perfect for making ahead, they bring a hands-on element to your holiday celebration. Each bite carries the essence of Colombia’s culinary heritage, offering a unique and memorable experience.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano)

Snowflake Date Cookies

Side view of three cookies on a dark plate.
Snowflake Date Cookies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

These snowflake date cookies are soft, chewy, and inspired by the sweet traditions of Middle Eastern holiday baking. Their simplicity and natural sweetness make them a delightful addition to any dessert spread. Easy to bake, they offer a charming way to share flavors from across the globe. These cookies are a sweet reminder of how traditions connect us during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Snowflake Date Cookies

Cajun-Style Baked Turkey Breast with Vegetables

Grilled chicken breasts on a gray plate, garnished with herbs, with a baking dish of roasted vegetables in the background. A checkered cloth is in the foreground.
Cajun Style Baked Turkey Breast with Vegetables. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This Cajun-style turkey breast brings the bold spices of Louisiana to your holiday table. Paired with roasted vegetables, it’s a vibrant main course that reflects the rich cultural fusion of Southern cuisine. Perfect for smaller gatherings, it adds an exciting twist to a traditional holiday feast. This dish delivers the festive warmth and flavor of Louisiana cooking.
Get the Recipe: Cajun-Style Baked Turkey Breast with Vegetables

Authentic Rice and Lentils

A white dish filled with lentils, rice, herbs, and topped with caramelized onions. A wooden spoon is nearby.
Authentic Rice and Lentils. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

This Middle Eastern rice and lentil dish, topped with caramelized onions, adds a comforting and authentic touch to your holiday table. Its hearty texture and earthy flavors make it a versatile side or vegetarian main course. Simple yet satisfying, it complements a variety of dishes, enhancing the global theme of your celebration. This recipe brings the heart of Middle Eastern traditions to your festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Rice and Lentils

Easy Baked Oysters Mornay Recipe

A hand holding a baked oyster topped with creamy sauce and parsley, with more oysters and a lemon slice in the background.
Easy Baked Oysters Mornay Recipe. Photo credit: Thermocookery.

These baked oysters, topped with buttery garlic sauce and golden breadcrumbs, are a nod to the sophistication of French cuisine. Their creamy texture and rich flavor make them an elegant appetizer for your global holiday feast. Easy to prepare, they add a touch of luxury to your menu. This dish captures the refined essence of French celebrations during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Easy Baked Oysters Mornay Recipe

4 Easy Middle Eastern Apple Appetizers

Apple skewers on a white plate.
4 Easy Middle Eastern Apple Appetizers. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

These apple appetizers highlight the vibrant spices and flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. They’re a refreshing and festive addition to a global holiday table, offering a balance of sweetness and warmth. Simple to prepare, they showcase the tradition of celebrating with fresh, seasonal ingredients. These appetizers are a flavorful gateway to the rich traditions of the Middle East.
Get the Recipe: 4 Easy Middle Eastern Apple Appetizers

Best Hummus with Canned Chickpeas

Best Hummus with Canned Chickpeas. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

This creamy hummus is a classic Middle Eastern dish that brings global flair to your holiday spread. Its smooth texture and bold flavors pair perfectly with breads, vegetables, or other appetizers. Easy to make, it’s a versatile addition to your menu that celebrates simplicity and tradition. This dish is a humble yet impactful way to honor Middle Eastern culinary heritage.
Get the Recipe: Best Hummus with Canned Chickpeas

Irish Cream Hot Chocolate Bombs

Three white chocolate-coated treats are drizzled with a light brown topping, placed on a green fabric surface.
Irish Cream Hot Chocolate Bombs. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

These Irish cream hot chocolate bombs combine rich chocolate with a hint of Irish liqueur for a warming holiday treat. Fun to make and even more enjoyable to serve, they add an interactive element to your dessert table. Perfect for cold nights, they bring a festive touch of Ireland to your global celebration. These treats make holiday moments extra special and memorable.
Get the Recipe: Irish Cream Hot Chocolate Bombs

Italian Ricotta Cookies

Ricotta Cookies decorated with Christmas sprinkles.
Italian Ricotta Cookies. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These Italian ricotta cookies are soft, tender, and a true representation of Italian holiday baking traditions. Their cake-like texture and gentle sweetness make them a versatile dessert perfect for festive gatherings. Simple to prepare, they bring a sense of heritage and joy to your global holiday celebration. These cookies add an Italian flair to your table, making the holidays even more special.
Get the Recipe: Italian Ricotta Cookies

Stuffed Tomatoes

Stuffed Tomatoes inside white casserole.
Stuffed Tomatoes. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

These baked stuffed tomatoes, filled with rich bolognese sauce, bring the heart of Mediterranean flavors to your holiday feast. Whether served hot or cold, they offer a vibrant, flavorful addition to a globally inspired menu. Their simple preparation and bold taste make them a versatile option for appetizers or side dishes. These tomatoes capture the warmth and depth of Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for festive gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Tomatoes

Hamentashen

Hamentashen cookies piled on a white plate with more cookies on a rack in the background. There is jar of jam with a spoon in it in the background too.
Hamentashen. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

These hamentashen cookies, a staple in Jewish celebrations, bring a taste of tradition to your holiday spread. The buttery rolled dough and choice of fillings like jam, chocolate, or poppyseed make them a delightful and versatile dessert. Their triangular shape and festive appeal fit seamlessly into a global holiday table. These cookies celebrate the rich traditions of Jewish culture, adding diversity and charm to your menu.
Get the Recipe: Hamentashen

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

A baking dish full of chicken enchiladas is surrounded by cut limes, a halved avocado, and a green linen.
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

These slow cooker chicken enchiladas bring the bold and lively flavors of Mexican cuisine to your holiday table. Tender chicken, tangy enchilada sauce, and cheesy tortillas combine for a dish that’s hearty and satisfying. The slow cooker preparation makes it convenient for entertaining, allowing you to focus on your guests. These enchiladas are a celebration of Mexican traditions, perfect for a global holiday feast.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchiladas

Crock Pot Spiral Ham

Spiral ham on a plate with asparagus and peaches in the background.
Crock Pot Spiral Ham. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This crock pot spiral ham is a Southern classic, featuring a sweet and spicy glaze made with peach preserves, honey, and red pepper flakes. Its slow-cooked preparation ensures tender, juicy slices perfect for holiday gatherings. The combination of flavors adds a festive touch to your table while keeping the cooking stress-free. This ham brings the charm and hospitality of Southern traditions to your global holiday celebration.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Spiral Ham

Spicy Harissa Pasta

Spicy Harissa Pasta. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This spicy harissa pasta brings the bold, aromatic flavors of North Africa to your holiday table. The creamy harissa sauce creates a comforting and vibrant dish that pairs well with any festive meal. Naturally plant-based, it’s a versatile option that reflects the rich diversity of Mediterranean cuisine. This pasta adds a flavorful adventure to your global holiday celebration.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Harissa Pasta

Dauphinoise Potatoes

An oven dish with baked dauphinoise potatoes in it.
Dauphinoise Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These dauphinoise potatoes, a classic French dish, bring creamy elegance to your holiday menu. Thinly sliced potatoes baked with cream and cheese create a luxurious side dish that complements a variety of main courses. Its rich and comforting nature makes it perfect for festive gatherings. These potatoes bring a refined taste of France to your global holiday feast.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu

a plate of slow cooker lamb ragu over pappardelle pasta surrounded by a block of parmesan, a white linen, and torn baguette.
Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This slow cooker lamb ragu is a hearty Italian dish that’s perfect for a festive holiday dinner. The tender lamb and robust, flavorful sauce make it a satisfying centerpiece served over pasta or with crusty bread. Its slow-braised preparation reflects the care and tradition that Italian cuisine is known for. This dish brings the richness of Italy to your holiday table, creating moments of warmth and togetherness.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu

Instant Pot Green Chicken Curry (Thai Green Curry Recipe)

Instant Pot Green Chicken Curry (Thai Green Curry Recipe) in a black bowl with bell peppers, basil, and limes.
Instant Pot Green Chicken Curry (Thai Green Curry Recipe). Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

This Thai green chicken curry brings the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Southeast Asia to your holiday celebration. Made with creamy coconut milk, fresh herbs, and tender chicken, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and bold. The Instant Pot preparation ensures quick and easy cooking, perfect for entertaining during the busy holiday season. This curry transports your table to Thailand, adding an exotic touch to your festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Green Chicken Curry (Thai Green Curry Recipe)

Filipino Leche Flan

Leche flan caramel creme brulee on a plate with a spoon.
Filipino Leche Flan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This Filipino leche flan is a creamy, caramelized dessert that adds a sweet and festive touch to your holiday menu. Its silky texture and rich flavor make it a standout choice for any global-themed celebration. Easy to prepare, it offers a taste of the Philippines that’s both authentic and indulgent. This flan brings the joy of Filipino traditions to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Leche Flan

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