You Know You're From New England If You Eat These Things On Christmas

There's something idyllic about a classic Christmas. You know, a snowy, white Christmas where families are together, gathered around a table, eating a traditional feast. If you want to play host to your own old-fashioned New England-inspired Christmas this year, don't forget the cheese straws, creamed onions and cranberry pie. When planning your menu, keep these New England Christmas classics in mind.

It gets cold up in New England, so the region's holiday fare is filled with warming bowls of comforting soups. This apple pumpkin soup is the perfect start to any meal, with a creamy, slightly sweet flavor.

For the Apple Pumpkin Soup recipe, click here.

This soup is a staple in New England throughout the year, so there's no way it's missing from a holiday menu.

For the Sweet Corn and Clam Chowder recipe, click here.

Cheddar and rosemary straws are a traditional New England appetizer, and they pair wonderfully with the seasonal soups on the holiday appetizer table.

For the Crunchy Cheddar and Rosemary Cheese Straws recipe, click here.

A favorite for guests of all ages, this simple shrimp cocktail recipe comes together in less than 15 minutes.

For the Grilled Shrimp Cocktail recipe, click here.

This dish is a classic centerpiece dish for Christmas Eve. The prep is easy and simple, and the flavors could not be more divine.

For the Beef Rib Roast recipe, click here.

This hearty sausage, spinach and ricotta lasagna taps into New England's Italian heritage and makes for a comforting holiday entree.

For the Spinach and Sausage Lasagna recipe, click here.

A glazed ham is a stunner on any holiday table. If you want to learn how to cook the perfect ham, start with this recipe, which uses rum and pineapple, creating a sweet and salty balance.

For the Rum Glazed Ham recipe, click here.

Hosts in New England will still serve this traditional dish from time to time, too, so consider preparing a Christmas goose for your centerpiece this year instead of the same old turkey you had on Thanksgiving.

For the Christmas Goose recipe, click here.

Mashed potatoes are a classic holiday comfort food, and no New England feast would be complete without them. This dish jazzes up the standard side a bit with a delicious caramelized onion topping.

For the Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes recipe, click here.

The mild, sweet flavors of these creamed onions will go with whatever main course you choose. This is yet another classic New England side dish.

For the Creamed Onions recipe, click here.

This broccoli and cauliflower casserole has a crunchy topping and cream cheese, creating an ideal balance of healthy and satisfying.

For the Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole recipe, click here.

Corn pudding has all of the elements of the best New England holiday dishes. It's bright, creamy, hearty and traditional.

For the corn pudding recipe, click here.

Cranberries are a must-have for any classic Christmas dinner. Forget that ol' relish and use cranberries for this delightful tart dessert instead.

For the Cranberry Pie recipe, click here.

The warming, homey flavors of molasses and holiday ginger spice make this traditional Christmas cookie a must-have for any New England-inspired feast.

For the Ginger Molasses Cookies recipe, click here.

New England's colonial roots lead to plenty of English influence in its holiday celebrations, including in this classic Christmas pudding recipe. For the best results, don't skimp on the fruit. It's part of a true vintage-inspired holiday menu.

For the Christmas Pudding recipe, click here.

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