Ah, that period between Christmas and New Year’s, isn’t it wonderful? It feels like everything comes to a halt. The clock takes a break, we lounge around in pyjamas almost all day, and completely lose track of time. It’s the time for little indulgences, like enjoying cold turkey leftovers with mayonnaise for breakfast. That’s my guilty pleasure during the holidays! At Cook it, we understand how precious these moments are. So, we’ve doubled our efforts to whip up some special recipes, perfect for those days when time seems to stand still. After much thought, I’ve picked out my favourites for you for the week of December 24th. It’s our way of sharing the magic of the holiday season with you and creating delicious memories together. Come and see what we’ve prepared for you!

Pork meatballs and plum sauce sheet pan with broccoli, bell pepper, cabbage, sesame seeds and green onion

Nothing beats the simplicity and flavour of a good sheet pan recipe, especially when it involves our pork meatballs with plum sauce. The ease of preparation and quick cleanup are major bonuses. The juicy and flavorful meatballs perfectly complement the plum sauce, creating a delightful sweet and savoury balance. Add a mix of broccoli, bell pepper, and cabbage for a healthy and colourful side. The dish is then sprinkled with sesame seeds and green onions for a crunch and freshness. It’s the perfect recipe to break away from traditional holiday meals and bring an Asian twist to your table. Easy, quick, and full of flavours, it’s ideal for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Tapenade and panko-crusted cod with zucchini, lemon, fennel and caper spaghetti

This recipe combines the tenderness of cod with a panko breadcrumb coating, yielding a result that is both delicate and satisfying. The tapenade, rich in olives and aromatic herbs, brings a depth of flavour that perfectly enhances the fish. Fennel, with its aniseed taste, compliments the flavour of the fish, while capers add their distinctive salty note. The chilli pepper adds a slight warmth to the dish, perfectly balancing the different components. This recipe is ideal for those looking to enjoy an elegant and flavorful fish dish without it being too heavy. It’s a perfect meal for winter evenings when you want something comforting yet still fresh and light.

Artichoke dip-style pizza with spinach, cream cheese and mozzarella.

Try our artichoke dip-style pizza if you’re looking for something unique for your evenings. Picture a crispy pizza base topped with a creamy artichoke dip, blended with fresh spinach and cream cheese. To finish, a generous layer of melting mozzarella is added. It’s the perfect marriage of the freshness of spinach, the richness of artichokes, and the creaminess of the cheese. This pizza is a real treat, ideal for a festive evening or just for indulging yourself. It combines the best of two worlds: the indulgence of an artichoke dip and the satisfaction of a perfectly golden pizza. Simple to make and delicious to enjoy, it promises to be a hit with your guests.

Our Cook it Pantry is filled with culinary treasures during the holiday season. This year, I’m delighted to share with you my personal recipe for classic Pork Cretons with a hint of maple mustard. Simple and quick to prepare, it’s the ideal recipe for festive brunches. 

Among the treasures I like to have for unexpected visits, I highly recommend the assortment of Mini Sweet Tarts from Carrément Tarte. Each bite is a delight for the taste buds, perfect for a quick dessert or as a complement to tea or coffee. 

I particularly appreciate the non-alcoholic alternatives for beverage options, like the refreshing cans of FIN Soda with honeysuckle and balsam fir. They offer a unique taste experience and are a great choice for welcoming all your guests, including those who prefer to avoid alcohol. 

Finally, the Grazing Box from À la table par Hanna is a perfect solution for a hassle-free but impressive appetizer. This cheese and charcuterie platter kit is visually appealing and designed to offer a memorable taste experience. Easy to assemble, it will add a touch of elegance to your festivities, while creating convivial moments around exquisite flavours.

With these delights, you will surely please your guests and make your holiday celebrations even more special.

Constance Tassé-Gagnon

Deputy Director of Product and Partnerships

Constance, a true culinary globetrotter, always on the lookout for the latest gastronomic trends. With 15 years of experience as a cook and pastry chef in Montreal’s gourmet restaurants, she excels in the art of dining and is always ready to host a memorable gathering. Her heart belongs to traditional Quebec cuisine, but her soul tirelessly explores flavors from around the world. Follow her for invaluable culinary tips and extraordinary taste discoveries that will make your next event an absolute success!