Christmas Day Starters & Recipes: A Festive Mezze to Kick Off the Feast

Sunday 16th Nov 2025 |

We’re well into November, and if you haven’t started planning your Christmas Day menu, now’s the perfect time. Before the centrepiece — the glorious, showstopper turkey — takes the spotlight, it’s all about the starters: the dishes that tease your taste buds, set the festive tone, and get everyone excited for what’s to come.

Luckily, we’ve got a way to get creative, impress your guests, and keep the stress to a minimum. This collection of starters lets you shine without spending all morning in the kitchen. Most can be prepared ahead of time, so you can relax with your Bucks Fizz, enjoy the festive chatter, and let the flavours do the talking. From elegant bites to warming soups and colourful salads, these recipes are designed to kick off your Christmas feast in style.

1. Smoked Salmon & Dill Blinis

A classic starter that’s quick, elegant, and full of flavour.

Ingredients (serves 4):

  • 8 small blinis
  • 100g smoked salmon
  • 100g crème fraîche
  • Fresh dill
  • Lemon wedges

Method:

  1. Warm the blinis according to packet instructions.
  2. Top each with a spoonful of crème fraîche, a slice of smoked salmon, and a sprig of dill.
  3. Serve with a lemon wedge for an extra zing.
Christmas Day starters

2. Mini Cranberry & Brie Tartlets

Sweet, savoury, and perfect for the festive season.

Ingredients (makes 12):

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry
  • 100g brie, cut into small cubes
  • 3 tbsp cranberry sauce
  • 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)

Method:

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
  2. Cut puff pastry into small squares and press into a mini muffin tin.
  3. Add a cube of brie and a teaspoon of cranberry sauce to each.
  4. Brush edges with beaten egg and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.

3. Chestnut & Mushroom Soup Shots

A warm, comforting option that’s light yet flavourful.

Ingredients (serves 4):

  • 200g chestnuts, cooked and peeled
  • 200g mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 500ml vegetable stock
  • 2 tbsp cream
  • Olive oil, salt, and pepper

Method:

  1. Sauté onions and mushrooms in olive oil until softened.
  2. Add chestnuts and stock, simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. Blend until smooth, stir in cream, and season to taste.
  4. Serve in shot glasses or small cups for an elegant presentation.
Christmas Day starters

4. Prawn & Avocado Cocktail

A retro classic with a modern twist.

Ingredients (serves 4):

  • 200g cooked prawns
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Paprika for garnish

Method:

  1. Toss prawns and avocado with mayonnaise and lemon juice.
  2. Spoon into small glasses or bowls.
  3. Sprinkle with paprika and serve chilled.

5. Festive Beetroot & Goat Cheese Salad

A colourful, fresh option to balance the richness of Christmas lunch.

Ingredients (serves 4):

  • 2 cooked beetroots, diced
  • 100g goat cheese, crumbled
  • Handful of arugula
  • 2 tbsp walnuts, toasted
  • Balsamic glaze

Method:

  1. Arrange arugula on plates and top with beetroot, goat cheese, and walnuts.
  2. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve immediately.

These starters are simple enough to prepare ahead, yet festive enough to make Christmas Day feel truly special. From creamy soups to elegant seafood bites, there’s a recipe here to suit every table.

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