10 Seattle Christmas Dinner Ideas Youll Love

Seattle is a city that celebrates the holiday season with gusto, and one of the best ways to get into the spirit is with a delicious Christmas dinner. Whether you're a local or just visiting, you'll find plenty of inspiration for a festive feast in this article.

From traditional turkey to seafood-focused menus, we've got 10 Seattle Christmas dinner ideas that you'll love. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or a cozy night in with loved ones, these ideas will help you create a memorable holiday meal.

Traditional Christmas Dinner Ideas

Seattle has a rich history, and its traditional Christmas dinner ideas reflect the city's culinary heritage. Here are a few classic options to consider:

1. Roasted Turkey with Trimmings

The quintessential Christmas dinner centerpiece, roasted turkey is a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with traditional trimmings like mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce for a comforting and familiar meal.

2. Baked Ham with Pineapple-Brown Sugar Glaze

Sweet and savory, baked ham is a popular Christmas dinner choice. A pineapple-brown sugar glaze adds a sticky, caramelized element that complements the salty ham perfectly.

3. Prime Rib with Horseradish Sauce

A show-stopping prime rib is sure to impress your holiday guests. Serve it with a creamy horseradish sauce for a tangy, indulgent treat.

Seafood-Inspired Christmas Dinner Ideas

Seattle's proximity to the ocean makes seafood a natural choice for Christmas dinner. Here are some seafood-inspired ideas to try:

4. Dungeness Crab Feast

A Dungeness crab feast is a quintessential Seattle experience. Serve the succulent crabs with melted butter, lemon wedges, and crusty bread for a decadent holiday meal.

5. Pan-Seared Salmon with Citrus-Herb Sauce

Brighten up your Christmas dinner with a vibrant citrus-herb sauce served over pan-seared salmon. This light and refreshing dish is perfect for a smaller gathering.

6. Shellfish Bouillabaisse

Inspired by the French classic, this shellfish bouillabaisse is a hearty, flavorful option for a seafood-focused Christmas dinner. Include a variety of shellfish, such as mussels, clams, and shrimp, for a satisfying and filling meal.

Modern Christmas Dinner Ideas

For a more contemporary take on Christmas dinner, consider these modern ideas:

7. Vegan "Turkey" with Wild Rice Stuffing

A vegan "turkey" made from plant-based ingredients is a game-changer for vegetarian and vegan guests. Pair it with a wild rice stuffing for a nutritious and flavorful meal.

8. Christmas Tacos

Yes, you read that right – Christmas tacos! Use leftover turkey or ham, or opt for a vegetarian or vegan filling, and serve with all the fixings for a fun and interactive holiday meal.

9. Christmas Dinner on a Stick

Skewer your favorite ingredients, such as shrimp, scallops, and vegetables, for a colorful and easy-to-eat Christmas dinner on a stick. This is a great option for a buffet-style meal or appetizer.

10. Holiday Sliders and Sides

Miniaturize your favorite Christmas dinner dishes, such as turkey, ham, or prime rib, and serve as sliders. Pair with a variety of sides, like mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce, for a customizable and indulgent meal.

Getting Started

With these 10 Seattle Christmas dinner ideas, you're sure to find inspiration for a memorable holiday meal. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or a cozy night in, remember to have fun and be creative with your menu.

Don't forget to pair your Christmas dinner with a selection of festive cocktails, wine, and champagne to toast the holiday season!