Spending Christmas in New York is already magical — the lights on Fifth Avenue, the animated window displays, the smell of roasted chestnuts… But for French expats, the hardest part is often the meal. Between ingredients that aren’t easy to find and local traditions that differ from home, a little creativity goes a long way.
Here are 3 simple Christmas dinner ideas to prepare in New York — each with a French touch.
The Chic French Dinner (New York Edition)
Starter: roasted pumpkin soup with maple syrup, served with a touch of cream and crushed pecans.
Main course: duck breast (easy to find at Whole Foods or Citarella), served with sweet potato purée and garlic-sautéed green beans.
Dessert: a quick homemade Yule log, made with a rolled sponge cake filled with mascarpone cream and red berries.
Tip: If you want the taste of a real French bûche de Noël without making it yourself, head to Maison Kayser, Ladurée, or Mille-Feuille Bakery Café.
The Friendly Dinner with Friends
Starter: a cheese and charcuterie board to share, with some good French bread (easy to find at Balthazar Bakery).
Main course: roasted turkey or herb-and-apple stuffed chicken, served with a gratin dauphinois.
Dessert: a cinnamon apple tart or a pear crumble — lighter than a bûche de Noël, but just as festive.
Tip: Order your French cheese in advance from French Wink or Le District — two must-visit spots for French food lovers in New York.
The Minimalist Christmas (for those working or traveling)
Starter: a festive salad with goat cheese, walnuts, and cranberries.
Main course: mushroom and truffle risotto (or made with truffle oil).
Dessert: quick chocolate mousse with a pinch of sea salt.
Tip: This menu can be prepared in under 1 hour and 30 minutes — perfect for an intimate Christmas Eve or a last-minute dinner.
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