As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the joy of gathering with loved ones to share in the rich flavours and festive recipes that make a Kiwi Christmas so special. From crumbed christmas salmon to decadent strawberry trifle adorned with fresh summer fruits, our collection of recipes will help you create a holiday feast that’s both traditional and uniquely New Zealand.
Whether you’re hosting the family or bringing a plate to a friend’s, these recipes are sure to inspire and delight. Arrange them on your dining table among a selection of Christmas candles and watch your friends admire your work.
With each of these Kiwi Christmas recipes, you’ll celebrate the essence of summer and the warmth of togetherness. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make this holiday season unforgettable with a spread that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a quick option to cover all bases, prepare a beautiful Christmas grazing platter to keep your guests happy all day long. All you’ll need to do is stock up the table with fresh produce and tasty nibbles, then relax with a glass of bubbles!
Sparkling berry punch
Grilled mussels with pesto, sun-dried tomato and cheese
Barbecue prawns with avocado salsa
Asparagus, chicken, egg and new potato salad with herb dressing
Green salad with shaved cucumber, peas, mint and raspberry dressing
New potato salad with easy mint pesto dressing
Barbecue salmon parcels
Summer lamb and beetroot salad
Herby drumsticks
Rosemary roast beef fillet
Baked fish with a sesame, pistachio and harissa crust
Barbecue lamb racks with pomegranate and quince glaze
Rosemary, garlic and lemon marinated lamb chops
Crumbed Christmas salmon
Cherry and coconut tart
Easy summer strawberry trifle
No-churn strawberry and white chocolate ice cream
Meringue and berry layer cake
Modern Christmas cake
5-ingredient vegan dark chocolate and avocado truffles
What is a typical Kiwi Christmas dinner?
Many Kiwi families love to gather around a big glazed ham and some fresh seafood on Christmas evening. Roasted veggies are a popular side dish, along with a hearty serving of pavlova, cake, trifle or anther similar dessert to finish.
However, traditions and beliefs vary between families, so what one family may consider a go-to Kiwi Christmas recipe, another may not. With this in mind, have a go at making a range of different recipes and see which work best for your family.
Happy cooking and a very merry Christmas!
