Tried and tested Xmas dinner recipes?

[sparkle789]

I've never cooked Xmas dinner before but in going to try this year. It's only for four.
How do I do it?!

[AtleastitsnotMonday]

Have you done roast chicken? It's very similar, what are you confident with?

[AtleastitsnotMonday]

Do you want to cook from scratch or are you happy with some short cuts?

[MissSynful]

try and get as much done the night before to save time on xmas day, so thats all yer veg prepped and soup/starter made so its just a case of heating up or putting together. same with puddings, i like to do a trifle (easily made the day before and then whack some cream on top before serving), cheesecake can be made the day before too and also poached pears, cook the night before then 'assemble' before serving. Also work out how many days your turkey (if your having one) needs to defrost if it is frozen and how long/how early you will need to get up for it to be put in the oven for cooking x

[Blondie1984]

If you buy one of the food magazines or Delia Smiths Christmas they have full guides and time plans in them - you might want to get one of those

[sparkle789]

Thanks,
I don't mind cooking from scratch or cheats.
I've made Sunday roasts before but they always seem a bit plain to me.

[AtleastitsnotMonday]

Why not post your ideal menu then people could suggest recipes or cheats for each bit. If you're stuck for inspiration just flick through any of the supermarket Christmas food to order mags or look at a few restaurants with online menus to see what you fancy then we can tell you how to diy!