Here's a magnificent meal for the special occasions you host during the holidays. Succulent beef tenderloin fills the Christmas dinner table in many homes or becomes a surprisingly easy entrée when entertaining. You'll have no one clamoring for that Christmas ham this year!

When using this menu as a sit-down dinner:

• This menu's choices give it either a Scandinavian or an English vibe!
  • For a Scandinavian-themed meal, chose Havarti and Sun-Dried Tomato Cheesecake, Glögg and Swedish Lemon Cream.
  • Use other suggestions for English-themed meal and consider making Steamed Plum Pudding for dessert.

• Skip the drinks and nibbles. Offer dinner guests either Creamy Stilton Soup or Seafood Bisque as a first course.

• Offer wine to drink. Brush up on wine pairing if you need help.

• Wish you had plate chargers to dress up your place settings? Make them yourself with our help!

• See a few ideas for Making Centerpieces for holiday tables or sideboards.

When using this menu for a holiday buffet:

• Add more desserts—even asking guests to bring one—for a spectacular desserts evening. You know we have plenty of ideas!

Here's one dessert buffet line up:

• Brandy Crème Brûlée Bars
• Chocolate Candy Cookie Cups
• Chocolate-Dipped Fruit Wreath
• Easy Spritz Cookies
• Red Velvet Cake with White Truffle Frosting
• Turtle Tassies
• Ultimate Chocolate-Cappuccino Cookie Cups
• White Chocolate Cheesecake

• Or make it simple by serving an indulgent coffee drink, such as Creamy Chocolate Almond Coffee for dessert after this wonderful dinner.

Menu