By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Trying to execute a Massimo Bottura menu on a Woolies Metro budget? Whether you're hosting a large family dinner or a laid-back beachside barbeque, these simple Christmas supermarket hacks can elevate your trolley basics and transform your traditional holiday feast into something special that puts the X-Factor into Xmas lunch!
Go ham!
Christmas ham is an Australian classic, but you can easily give it a gourmet twist with minimal effort. Start with a pre-cooked ham, which is often the best option for a quick, hassle-free meal, but make it truly special with a personalised glaze.
Supermarket hack: grab a jar of quality mustard and mix it with maple syrup or brown sugar. Brush this over the ham and then pop it in the oven for a 15-minute caramelisation. For an added layer of flavour, sprinkle some chopped rosemary and garlic over the top, or for a fruity touch, throw in a handful of fresh cranberries. The result? A sticky, golden ham that’s sweet, savoury and full of festive charm.
Pimp your potato salad
Potato salad is another staple on the Australian Christmas table, but often it’s just a basic mix of potatoes, mayonnaise and a few herbs. If you’re looking to take it up a notch, it’s all about the little extras that will make it pop.
Supermarket hack: instead of regular boiled potatoes, try roasting them first with olive oil, salt and pepper for a crispy edge. Toss in baby spinach, roasted walnuts and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. For a creamy delight, use sour cream and fresh dill instead of mayo. A handful of cranberries or pomegranate seeds can add a burst of colour and sweetness, giving your salad a festive flair.
Shrimply amazing
Nothing says Christmas in Australia like fresh prawns, but if you want to turn them from a simple snack into the star of your festive feast, you need a punch of flavour.
Supermarket hack: marinate your prawns in a combination of garlic, chilli and lemon zest for 30 minutes before cooking them. Then, fire up the BBQ and as the prawns cook, glaze them with a mixture of sweet chilli sauce and lime juice for a tangy kick. For a tropical twist, top them with shredded coconut or a sprinkle of fresh coriander once they’re cooked. Serve on a platter with slices of lime and a few wedges of avocado for a refreshing touch.
Roast veggies are a vibe
Vegetables might sometimes feel like an afterthought at Christmas, but roast vegetables are a wonderful way to add colour, depth and richness to the table. This Christmas, skip the usual steamed veggies and give your sides the extra love they deserve.
Supermarket hack: Try roasting your carrots, sweet potatoes and parsnips with olive oil and honey, then finishing with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. For added flavour, sprinkle over some feta cheese or toasted nuts like almonds or pecans. You could even toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of aroma. If you're feeling adventurous, try Brussels sprouts roasted with bacon and apple cider vinegar for a festive combination of savoury and sweet.
A perfect pav
Pavlova is an iconic Australian Christmas dessert, but while the traditional version is already delicious, a few simple tweaks can turn it into a crowd-pleaser that everyone will want seconds of.
Supermarket hack: start with a ready-made meringue base from the store to save time. Then, layer it with whipped cream and a vibrant array of tropical fruits, such as mango, kiwi and passionfruit. For an extra pop of flavour, drizzle some raspberry coulis or strawberry syrup over the top. Add a few mint leaves for colour and perhaps some edible flowers to make it even more festive. These tiny twists on the classic pavlova will look and taste as though you spent hours preparing it!
Your platter matters
A good grazing board is the perfect way to offer a range of snacks and appetisers that guests can nibble on throughout the day. To take your platter from ordinary to extraordinary, it’s all about the combinations.
Supermarket hack: instead of just piling up crackers and cheese, add some seasonal fruit like figs, berries and pomegranate seeds. Add charcuterie like prosciutto, smoked salmon and chorizo to bring in savoury, smoky flavours. Don't forget to include a range of dips – try hummus, tzatziki or even a cream cheese dip made with fresh herbs. For that extra wow factor, use a few decorative bowls to present your dips or fill them with extra bits like roasted nuts, dried fruits or cherry tomatoes.
