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As the holiday season approaches, families all around the world begin to prepare for one of the most cherished traditions of the year: the festive meal. These gatherings extend beyond mere nourishment; they serve as the heartbeat of family celebrations, where stories are shared, laughter fills the air, and memories are crafted around an inviting dining table. Amidst the array of dishes that grace this table, a few stand out as true stars, capturing the essence of festive cheer and togetherness.

Christmas Eve Dinner Recipes: 30 Effortless Recipes Ideas

Looking for simple sandwich recipes that are perfect for a quick vegetarian lunch option? Afterka has you covered! Enjoy flavorful combinations that are easy to make and delicious to eat, ensuring you stay energized throughout the day. VegetarianLunch SandwichRecipes HealthyEating QuickMeals MeatlessMonday YummyEats
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Ingredients
  

1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)

2 cups fresh cranberries

1 cup orange juice

1 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup honey

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 cup water

2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening)

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1/2 cup heavy cream

5 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh chives or parsley for garnish

1.5 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

6 slices of bacon, chopped

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

2 pounds beef tenderloin, trimmed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 cup Dijon mustard

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

    Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows the glaze to soak in more flavor.

      In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.

        Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.

          Optionally, mix cornstarch with water in a bowl and slowly add to the glaze, stirring constantly until it reaches your desired thickness.

            Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush half of the cranberry-orange glaze over it.

              Cover loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.

                Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes of cooking for a caramelized finish.

                  Once cooked, remove from the oven and let sit for 15 minutes before slicing.

                    Serve warm with any leftover glaze drizzled on top.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours | Servings: 12-15

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                          Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes 🥔🧄

                            Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

                              In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn.

                                Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the melted butter and garlic mixture, then mash with a potato masher.

                                  Slowly add heavy cream to the potatoes, mashing until you reach your desired consistency.

                                    Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with chopped chives or parsley before serving.

                                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6-8

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                                          Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze 🥦🥓

                                            Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

                                              In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

                                                Spread them out on a baking sheet and sprinkle with chopped bacon.

                                                  Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until Brussels sprouts are crispy and bacon is cooked.

                                                    Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the sprouts and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

                                                      Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

                                                        Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

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                                                            Herb-Crusted Beef Tenderloin 🍖🌿

                                                              Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

                                                                In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 5–6 minutes.

                                                                  Remove the beef from the skillet and let it cool slightly. Brush the mustard all over the tenderloin.

                                                                    In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, herbs, salt, and pepper together.

                                                                      Roll the tenderloin in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

                                                                        Place the beef on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness.

                                                                          Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

                                                                            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6-8

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                                                                                Feel free to adjust the recipes to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions! Enjoy your Christmas Eve dinner!