Best 5 Quick Christmas Recipes

Related To:

Lemon Pasta with Roasted Shrimp

IMG_7580.tif

Pasta with shrimp mixed in a green bowl

©Quentin Bacon, Food Stylist: Cyd Raftus McDowell Prop Stylist: Philippa Brathwaite

Quentin Bacon, Food Stylist: Cyd Raftus McDowell Prop Stylist: Philippa Brathwaite

Whether you find yourself hosting unexpected holiday guests or are suddenly tasked with bringing a dish to pass at a party, it's a good idea to have in your recipe arsenal those crowd-pleasing dishes that look deliciously elaborate and taste just as impressive but are, in fact, a cinch to prepare. When last-minute get-togethers arise, reach for Food Network's top-five quick recipes for Christmas, a collection of celebration-worthy classics from some of your favorite chefs, like Rachael, Robert and Ina. Perhaps best of all, these go-to picks can be on the table in less than 35 minutes.

5. Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Reduction — Pork and apples are two ingredients simply better together, and here they're combined when a sweet and tangy maple syrup-apple cider vinegar sauce is spooned over juicy tenderloins.

4. Creamed Spinach — With a rich and creamy sauce subtly spiced with nutmeg, this traditional steakhouse side dish can be made easily at home with fresh spinach and will round out any entree.

3. Five-Minute Fudge Wreath — The secret to making Rachael's ultimate dessert is working quickly. She combines chocolate and butterscotch morsels with sweetened condensed milk, then forms the mixture into a wreathlike shape while it's still warm in the pan. Click the play button on the video below to watch her make it.

2. Old-Fashioned Mashed Potatoes — A timeless side that can be made with just five everyday ingredients, Robert's comforting mashed potatoes can feed up to 20 people, so they're a must-have addition to any large gathering or buffet spread.

1.  Lemon Pasta with Roasted Shrimp — Ina lets the light, refreshing flavor of lemon shine in this fuss-free pasta (pictured above from Food Network Magazine), tossed in a simple, buttery sauce and studded with tender oven-roasted shrimp.

Five-Minute Fudge Wreath
Loading Video...

Next Up

Quick Christmas Morning Brunch Menu

This year, instead of resorting to cereal and cocoa, serve a simple brunch, featuring hearty dishes that are ready in 30 minutes or fewer.

A Complete Christmas Dinner Menu Full of the Fastest Recipes Around

Check out this at-the-ready menu of all-star dishes that will wow your guests this holiday season.

The Best Food-Themed Christmas Gift Wrap, Cards, Bags and Tags

Here's how to make what's outside your gift box just as pretty as what's inside!

The 17 Most Memorable Food Scenes in "Elf"

Buddy the Elf’s candy diet is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

4 Christmas Cocktails You Need on Your Holiday Table

We took all your favorite holiday flavors and turned them into festive drinks!

Food Network Stars Share Their Best No-Bake Holiday Cookie Recipes

We've got picks from Ree Drummond, Molly Yeh and more!

Gluten-Free Holiday Baking

During holiday baking season, those who are sensitive to or intolerant of gluten needn’t miss out on all the sweet seasonal treats.

Food Network Magazine: Nov/Dec 2008 Recipe Index

Find easy recipes for appetizers, main dishes, sides and desserts from Food Network Magazine.

This Beloved Family Dish Is Always on My Orthodox Christmas Table

My grandmother made Podvarok every Christmas, and now I do too.