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by Laura Grande
updated February 4, 2022
To repeat the now-familiar refrain: the holidays are going to look a lot different this year. With different provinces adhering to various health protocols and guidelines in light of the pandemic, many of us will be celebrating the winter break together via Zoom. Although this can be disheartening, there are plenty of ways we can still engage with our loved ones, albeit at a safe distance. Consider setting up a one-on-one call with Grandma or inviting the whole family to take part in an interactive cook- or bake-off to help you celebrate and still enjoy a meal together. From eggnog and baked Brie to sockeye salmon and wild rice stuffing, we’ve rounded up some simple (and delicious) recipes you can make together over a video call.
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1/12
This Vegan Eggnog Recipe is So Good It’ll Impress All the Non-Vegans Too
Is it even the holiday season without this boozy staple? This year, skip the store-bought variety and whip up a fresh batch of eggnog together as a family over Zoom. This bold and beautiful version is not only dairy-free, but gluten- and egg-free as well! For a kid-friendly option, skip the bourbon or rum. For more ideas, try these vegan holiday entrées you’ve never tried before.
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2/12
Cozy up With a Cup of Hot Chocolate Topped With Homemade Peppermint Vanilla Marshmallows
Picture this: you log onto your Zoom call with Grandma and co. and the first recipe you decide to make together after the initial greetings have quieted down is this warm, comforting drink with a fluffy topper. Cut corners by picking up store-bought hot chocolate in advance, and enjoy making your own peppermint-vanilla marshmallows together as a group. Find more at-home trends that will still give you all the holiday feels.
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3/12
This Baked Brie With Nuts and Dried Fruit is the Perfect Holiday Appetizer (or Easy Dinner Idea!)
For something snappy you can put together quickly and enjoy during your holiday family Zoom call, try this easy-peasy app that can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. Pick and choose the dried fruits and nuts you incorporate into your version of this Brie dish – either way, it only requires roughly five minutes of prep and 15 minutes in the oven. Find more gooey, melty ways to get your cheese fix.
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4/12
A Heavenly Blueberry and Bacon Breakfast Casserole Made With Croissants
Planning on cooking together? This year, shake things up and plan a socially-distanced gathering over brunch (instead of the usual dinner). Blueberry pancakes and crispy bacon meet fresh (or stale!) croissants for a casserole you’ll officially want in your regular rotation. With only 10 minutes of prep, this baked beauty will have your kitchen smelling delicious in no time.
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5/12
West Coast Cedar-Planked Salmon
Fish isn’t usually the first food that comes to mind when planning a family meal-prep event – but why not? It’s healthy, versatile, delicious and relatively simple to make. Try this version of cedar-planked salmon from the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. You can thank us later. Try these simple swaps to make your baking and cooking healthier.
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6/12
Vegan Shepherd’s Pie With Crispy Cauliflower Crust
There’s something so comforting about a hearty shepherd’s pie, making it the ideal dish to make together as a family. This vegan version is loaded with lentils and veggies that are smothered in an easy pan-gravy and puréed cauliflower. Even the carnivores in your life will appreciate this mouth-watering meal.
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7/12
You’ll Love This Easy Lemon Spatchco*ck Chicken With Roasted Apples, Parsnips and Leeks
Cooking with Grandma has never been more fun! We’re big fans of no-muss, no-fuss sheet pan-style meals where everything cooks together — especially when we’re making it together on a Zoom call. This jaw-dropping whole chicken is roasted alongside apples, parsnips and leeks with woodsy herbs that’ll lend a warm, outdoorsy vibe to your kitchen.
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8/12
Cranberry-Pecan Wild Rice Stuffing
After only 30 minutes in the oven, this bright and bold veggie side dish will be the star of your table. Mix dried apricots and dried cranberries together in this thyme-scented stuffing topped with crunchy pecans. It’ll be a welcome change from the standard stuffing recipes you’ve indulged in over the years.
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9/12
Rosemary Roasted Potatoes
You really can’t go wrong with a hearty potato side dish. Elevate the humble spud by trying the hasselback technique this time around and sprinkle with rosemary, salt and pepper. For more inspiration, check out these make-ahead potato casseroles we’re drooling over.
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10/12
The Epic Winter Salad That’ll Keep You Fueled All Season (Ft. the Best Dressing Ever)
Whether you’re looking for a veggie-forward side dish or simply want a lighter main course, this gorgeous winter salad is your best bet. Catch up on all the family gossip while slicing potatoes, Brussels sprouts, onions and beets. The beauty of this dish is its versatility – and the drool-worthy homemade dressing. Find more hearty salads that will brighten your winter meals.
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11/12
The Perfect Fall Dessert: Healthy Low Sugar Persimmon Creme Brulee
This no-bake (yes, really!) dessert is a healthy alternative to the typical sugary fare. Not only is it a unique twist on the traditional creme brulee, but it’s also an egg-free and sugar-conscious dessert that you and your family will fall in love with as you make it together. Find more of our best no-bake dessert recipes that won’t let you down.
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12/12
These Chocolate Eggnog Sandwich Cookies Will Surely Get You in the Holiday Spirit
What better way to get in the holiday spirit with your loved ones than by whipping a batch of these eggnog sandwich cookies? They’re chocolatey, soft and filled with a creamy eggnog frosting. What are you waiting for? Put on your apron and get baking!
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- baking
- dessert
- dinner
- entertaining
- hanukkah
