The holiday season is upon us!

It is a special time, since some of the most tightly held traditions around the world are those centered around holidays. There are numerous traditions around holidays celebrated by different religions, nations and cultures—varying from country to country, region to region, and family to family. Almost always, food is at the center of these celebrations.

While it’s important to keep your own traditions alive, why not try something new this year? Show off your culinary skills and impress your guests with a globally inspired menu that will transport them to different parts of the world. Whether you’re staying close to your roots or want to try something new, a heritage holiday table is the perfect way to bring people together and celebrate delicious cuisines from around the world.

From the African Diaspora to the Mediterranean and beyond—there are countless delicious dishes to explore. With so many options, you’re sure to find something that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds. So why not take a culinary journey this holiday season and create some new traditions that your family will cherish for years to come?

To get you started, we have included some recipe inspiration from our heritage diet pyramids.

African Heritage

Okra with Pomegranate Molasses in the Oven

Green okra paired with stunning red pomegranate seeds makes this recipe a perfect holiday side dish. The pomegranate molasses adds an unexpected depth of flavor to the roasted vegetables.

Asian Heritage

Indonesian Red Rice Salad with Boiled Eggs and Macadamias

This vibrant red side dish will look stunning on the holiday table. With molasses, macadamia nuts, ground coriander and ginger, it delivers familiar holiday flavors in an unexpected way. Make it ahead and serve chilled or at room temperature with your meal.

Latin American Heritage

Peanut Butter Chili with Pinto Beans

We know this time of year is busy, so this dish is easy to prepare ahead of time. Peanuts add creaminess to this delicious plant-based chili. Top it with sliced avocado or fresh cilantro.

Mediterranean

Figs Stuffed with Blue Cheese

This elegant holiday appetizer will wow your guests — with minimal effort! Simply slice figs and top with crumbled blue cheese, a drizzle of honey, and a pinch of rosemary. Sweet and savory, it’s sure to please a crowd, and with no stove required.

No matter the location — East, West, North or South — the ultimate holiday heritage stems from being together with family and friends, and, of course, continuing food traditions all around the world.

Happy cooking! Happy eating! Happy holidays! We’d love to learn about your special holiday dishes. 

For more inspiration check out the Oldways recipe library.