Winter Wellness: Foods and Supplements to Keep You Fighting Fit in the Run-Up to Christmas

Everyone needs vitamins!

Stay healthy this festive season with immune-boosting foods and smart supplements. Discover what to eat in the run-up to Christmas to help ward off colds, flu and winter infections.

We promised you that we would share a feature on how to ward off the flu and here it is!

As the Christmas countdown begins, so too does the wave of sniffles, sore throats and seasonal bugs that always seem to arrive just in time for the festivities. 

With busy diaries, colder weather and more time spent indoors, it becomes all too easy for colds and flu to take hold just when you want to enjoy parties, family gatherings and last-minute shopping trips.

The good news? A stronger immune system starts in your kitchen. The foods you eat – and the supplements you choose – can make a real difference to how well your body fights off winter infections.

Here’s how to fortify yourself for a healthy, happy Christmas season.

Eat the Rainbow: Immune-Boosting Foods for December

Citrus fruits

Oranges, satsumas, clementines and grapefruit are bursting with vitamin C, which supports immune cell function and helps reduce the duration of colds. Luckily, these fruits are at their seasonal best around Christmastime, perfect for snacking or adding to breakfast bowls.

Berries

Fresh berries may be pricier in winter, but frozen berries are just as nutritious. Blueberries, blackberries and raspberries provide antioxidants that protect cells against infection-causing inflammation.

Garlic and onions

These humble kitchen staples contain allicin and other sulphur compounds known to have antimicrobial properties. Add them generously to soups, stews, roasts and stir-fries in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Leafy greens

Spinach, kale, chard and spring greens support your immune system with vitamins A, C and K, plus folate and iron. If you’re planning festive meals, mix greens into omelettes, pasta dishes or Christmas Eve quiches.

Yoghurt and fermented foods

A healthy gut plays a major role in immunity. Yoghurt with live cultures, kimchi, sauerkraut and kefir help support a balanced gut microbiome. Even a breakfast bowl topped with live yoghurt and fruit can make a difference.

Lean protein

Your immune cells are made from protein, so maintaining your intake is vital. Chicken, turkey, eggs, fish and plant-based proteins such as beans and lentils help the body repair and defend itself.

Seasonal Heroes: Warming Foods That Help You Fight Winter Bugs

Ginger

A natural anti-inflammatory, ginger can soothe sore throats, support digestion and provide a warming boost. Fresh ginger tea with honey and lemon is a perfect December tonic.

Turmeric

This bright golden spice contains curcumin, known for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory qualities. Stir turmeric into soups or warm milk for a cosy evening drink.

Honey

Especially raw honey, which contains antimicrobial compounds that ease coughs and irritation. Add a spoon to tea or drizzle over porridge.

Chicken soup

It’s more than an old wives’ tale. Chicken soup provides fluids, electrolytes, protein and minerals that support recovery and may ease inflammation in the airways.

Supplements Worth Considering Before Christmas

While food should always come first, supplements can be helpful when our schedules, stress levels and the cold weather work against us.

Vitamin D

In the UK, sunlight levels from October to March are too low for the body to produce adequate vitamin D. This vitamin plays an essential role in immune response. Many people choose to take 10 mcg (400 IU) per day, as advised by the NHS.

Vitamin C

If your diet dips during busy weeks, a vitamin C supplement may help support normal immune function. Look for a moderate daily dose rather than mega-strength tablets.

Zinc

Zinc contributes to the normal function of the immune system and may shorten the duration of colds when taken at the first signs of symptoms. Lozenges or standard supplements are both suitable options.

Probiotics

A balanced gut microbiome supports immunity, and probiotics can help maintain this – especially if you’ve recently taken antibiotics or have a sensitive digestive system.

Elderberry extract

Often used in winter because of its antioxidant content, elderberry is popular for supporting wellbeing during cold season.

Lifestyle Habits That Make All the Difference

It’s not just about what you take – it’s also about daily habits:

Stay hydrated to keep mucous membranes functioning properly.

Wash hands regularly, especially during Christmas shopping trips.

Get enough sleep, ideally 7–9 hours a night.

Keep moving, as exercise supports immunity and reduces stress.

Reduce sugar where possible, as excess sugar may weaken immune responses.

Give Yourself the Gift of Health This Christmas

The run-up to Christmas is one of the busiest, most joyful, and most germ-filled, times of the year. By filling your meals with colourful, nourishing foods and topping up with the right supplements, you’ll give your immune system the support it needs to help you enjoy every festive moment.

Bring Colour and Wow to Your Christmas Breakfasts

Christmas morning has its own kind of magic. The tree lights are twinkling, the presents are waiting, and the aroma from the kitchen can set the tone for the whole day.

While many people focus on the main event, the Christmas dinner, the first meal of the day is a brilliant opportunity to add a burst of colour, creativity, and festive joy.

Here’s why it’s worth giving your Christmas breakfast a glow-up, plus easy ways to add wow-factor without adding stress.

Why Add Colour to Your Christmas Breakfast?

1. It lifts everyone’s mood

A bright, beautiful breakfast table instantly feels more celebratory. Seasonal fruits, vibrant pastries, and colourful drinks feel indulgent and joyful, perfect for the excitement of the day.

2. It makes family photos pop

If you love sharing snaps of your Christmas at home, a colourful breakfast spread looks wonderfully photogenic. Whether it’s ruby-red berries or a golden pastry wreath, this is your chance to create a picture-perfect start to the day.

3. It encourages slower, more mindful eating

Christmas morning can be a whirlwind. A beautifully laid table encourages everyone to pause, enjoy the moment, and savour something delicious before the chaos of wrapping paper begins.

4. It’s an easy win for hosting

If you’ve got overnight guests, a thoughtful breakfast spread adds a touch of luxury, without the workload of a full Christmas dinner.

How to Add Colour and Wow to Your Christmas Breakfast

1. Use naturally colourful ingredients

Mixed berries for a bold burst of red, purple, and blue

Tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, pineapple, and pomegranate

Festive citrus such as blood oranges or clementines

Herbs like mint for a fresh green accent

A simple Greek yoghurt bowl becomes instantly Christmassy when topped with a handful of jewel-bright fruit.

2. Bake (or buy!) something beautiful

You don’t need to spend hours baking. A few well-chosen items add instant wow:

A cinnamon swirl loaf dusted with icing sugar

A cranberry and orange muffin selection

A pastry wreath filled with chocolate or almond paste

Panettone French toast, golden, aromatic, and stunning

Warm pastries on a festive plate look like little works of art.

3. Add colour with drinks

A vibrant drink can transform the entire table. Try:

Cranberry mimosas (with alcohol-free options available)

Spiced apple juice gently warmed

Freshly squeezed orange juice in pretty glassware

Hot chocolate with candy-cane toppers

Even a simple jug of water can look seasonal with slices of orange and a few cranberries.

4. Dress the table

You don’t need to go overboard. Just a few touches make the breakfast table feel special:

A red or green runner

Mini baubles scattered around the plates

Festive napkins

A little vase of winter foliage

Candles add warmth, but keep them low so you can still see each other!

5. Serve something shareable

A centrepiece dish creates a sense of occasion. Consider:

A rainbow fruit platter arranged in festive shapes

A Shakshuka-style baked egg dish (reds, greens, very Christmassy)

A sharing board with pastries, meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, and jams

It’s relaxed, colourful, and easy to top up throughout the morning.

6. Add a touch of whimsy

Christmas morning is for fun. Think:

Snowflake-shaped pancakes

Toast cut into stars

Sprinkles of icing sugar to create a “snow-dusted” effect

A small chocolate on each plate

Festive food picks or paper toppers for pastries

Little details make the moment sparkle.

Colourful, joyful Christmas breakfasts don’t need to be complicated. With a few bright ingredients, a sprinkle of creativity, and a festive table setting, you can turn an ordinary morning into a magical memory, setting the tone for a wonderful Christmas Day ahead.

Why You Must Sort Out Your Fridge and Freezer Before Christmas

As the festive season draws ever closer, most of us turn our attention to gift lists, decorations, and the all-important Christmas food shop. 

But there’s one job that quietly sits in the background, a task that can make or break your Christmas catering and hosting, and that’s giving your fridge and freezer a proper sort-out, defrost, and deep clean.

It’s not glamorous, but it is essential. Here’s why a pre-Christmas clean-up of your cold storage is one of the smartest seasonal preparations you can make.

1. You’ll Need the Space. Far More Than You Think

Christmas dinner ingredients take up a surprising amount of room: joints of meat, trays of stuffing, fresh vegetables, cream, butter, puddings, cheeses, and soft drinks all compete for shelf space.

A cluttered fridge or a freezer full of mystery containers is guaranteed to cause stress.

A clear-out now means:

Easy organisation during the festive rush

No risk of overfilling and poor air circulation

Room for leftovers on Boxing Day

2. It’s the Perfect Time to Bin Anything Out of Date

We all have them, condiments we used once, freezer items we swore we’d use, and tubs of “something” we can no longer identify.

Sorting through everything ensures:

No expired items lurking behind the cranberry sauce

No food safety surprises

A clear picture of what you actually need to buy

This alone can save money and prevent food waste.

3. A Defrosted Freezer Works Better and Costs Less to Run

If your freezer has built up a layer of ice, even a thin one, it’s working harder than it should — and using more energy.

Defrosting it now ensures:

Better freezing performance for your Christmas food

Lower electricity usage

Easier storage, without ice reducing capacity

It’s a win for both your festive planning and your energy bills.

4. A Deep Clean Reduces the Risk of Festive Food Mishaps

Cross-contamination risks rise when fridges are overcrowded or not cleaned properly. A deep clean before the Christmas food shop means:

Shelves and drawers free from spills and bacteria

Safe storage for raw meats and ready-to-eat foods

Peace of mind when feeding family and guests

And let’s be honest, opening a fresh, spotless fridge is oddly satisfying.

5. It Makes Your Christmas Cooking Run Smoothly

Knowing exactly what you have (and where it is) saves huge amounts of time during peak cooking periods.

With everything sorted and labelled, you’ll avoid:

Buying duplicates

Forgetting ingredients you already had frozen

Losing tubs of prepared gravy or sauce somewhere in the icy depths

An organised fridge and freezer reduce stress and help you stay on top of your festive meal plan.

6. It Sets You Up for the New Year, Too

A clean fridge and decluttered freezer don’t just make Christmas easier, they give you a great start to January. No leftover chaos. No expired jars. No need to tackle deep cleaning when you’re already exhausted from the festivities.

It’s one of the few seasonal tasks that benefits future you as much as the present.

How to Make the Job Quick and Easy

Use cool bags to store food safely while cleaning

Put warm bowls of water in the freezer to speed up defrosting

Wash shelves in warm soapy water and dry thoroughly

Label containers clearly before putting items back

Create zones for dairy, veg, meats, and leftovers to keep things organised

A bit of effort now means a stress-free kitchen later.

A Clean, Organised Fridge: The Unsung Hero of Christmas

With so much happening at this time of year, it’s easy to overlook these practical tasks. But sorting out your fridge and freezer is one of the most effective ways to ensure your Christmas runs smoothly, from storing the turkey to tucking away the leftover trifle.

Give yourself the gift of space, efficiency, and peace of mind!

Why Every Family Should Get Their Flu Jab Before Christmas

As we slip into the sparkle and bustle of December, most of us are busy planning festive menus, booking travel, wrapping presents, and checking whether we’ve remembered everyone’s stocking fillers. 

But there’s another Christmas essential that often gets overlooked, and it may be the most important gift you can give your family this season: making sure everyone has had their flu jab.

Why it matters now more than ever

Winter is peak flu season in the UK, and with families gathering indoors,  often with relatives of all ages, from excitable toddlers to older grandparents, the chances of catching and spreading flu increase dramatically. 

While flu is sometimes dismissed as “just a heavy cold,” the NHS reminds us that it can cause severe illness, hospitalisation, and in vulnerable groups, it can even be life-threatening.

Some hospitals are already closed to new admissions due to an unexpected and early surge in flu cases and some virologists are recommending that people start wearing face masks, especially whilst on public transport.

A flu-free Christmas is a happier Christmas.

Who is eligible for a free NHS flu jab?

Each year, the NHS offers free flu vaccinations to groups most at risk. This typically includes:

Adults aged 65 and over

Pregnant women

People with certain long-term health conditions

Children aged 2–3 (nasal spray)

School-age children up to Year 11

Carers and frontline health or social care workers

If you’re not eligible, you can still get vaccinated privately at pharmacies such as Boots, Superdrug, Lloyds, and many independent chemists. Private jabs are reasonably priced and widely available.

Why the whole family should get protected

Even if you’re healthy, flu can knock you off your feet for days, sometimes weeks, and nobody wants to miss out on Christmas dinner, carol services or Boxing Day walks because they’re tucked up in bed with tissues and paracetamol.

But there’s another crucial reason: protection for others. Children and working adults often spread flu without realising they’re infectious. By getting vaccinated, you’re helping shield vulnerable relatives who might be more severely affected.

Think of it as a family act of kindness, and one that keeps the celebrations moving smoothly.

How to get your flu jab sorted quickly

Booking your flu vaccination is simple and can usually be done online:

NHS GP surgeries often invite eligible patients directly or allow online booking.

Pharmacies provide quick walk-in or pre-booked appointments.

Schools handle vaccinations for most children automatically.

If you’re planning Christmas travel, book your jab sooner rather than later. It takes around two weeks for immunity to develop.

Make it part of your Christmas preparations

Treat flu jabs like you would ordering the turkey or checking the fairy lights: a practical step that ensures your festive season runs smoothly.

Why not turn it into a family health check-in? Tick off flu jabs, review repeat prescriptions, and make sure everyone’s well stocked with any medications they’ll need over the Christmas and New Year period. It’s amazing how much stress this removes from the holidays.

A healthier, happier Christmas for all

Flu jabs aren’t the most glamorous part of Christmas planning, but they might just be the most meaningful. By protecting yourself and encouraging your family to do the same, you’re giving the gift of good health,  and creating the best possible chance for a relaxed, joyful, sniffle-free Christmas.

Later on we'll carry a feature on simple steps you can take to help your body ward off the flu.

A Perfect Winter Read: No Lips to Scream With — A Chilling Christmas Kindle Treat

As the nights draw in and the world outside grows quieter beneath December’s long shadows, many of us turn to stories that make the season feel even more magical. 

Some choose warm-hearted tales filled with twinkling lights and cosy romance.

Others? They lean into the darker side of winter, the mysteries, the tingles up the spine, and the thrill of a story best enjoyed with the curtains drawn and a hot drink close by.

If you fall into the latter group, then this Christmas there’s one Kindle read you’ll want on your device: No Lips to Scream With, written by me and available exclusively on Amazon Kindle:

https://amzn.to/3MnK5MR

This atmospheric novella is the perfect companion for those quiet hours after the festive rush, when the house is still and the wind outside seems to whisper around the eaves.

Haunting Tales for a Winter’s Night

Set against backdrops that feel cold, remote, and eerily timeless, No Lips to Scream With draws the reader into a world where isolation sharpens fear and silence becomes its own character. 

It’s the sort of story collection  that rewards reading in a single sitting, ideally by the glow of your Christmas tree lights, where the contrast between warmth and dread heightens every moment.

Without giving away any twists, readers can expect:

Gripping and unsettling narratives that build steadily

Characters who feel vividly human despite their haunting circumstances

An atmosphere thick enough to wrap around you like a December fog

A closing act that lingers long after the Kindle is switched off

If you're someone who loves a chilling tale to punctuate the festive season, something to cleanse the palate between mince pies and Christmas films, this is an ideal pick.

Why It Belongs on Your Christmas Reading List

Christmas is, surprisingly, one of the best times for a good scare. For centuries, Britons have shared ghost stories at Christmastime — a tradition stretching back long before Dickens gave us A Christmas Carol. No Lips to Scream With fits beautifully into that lineage.

It’s modern. It’s clever. It’s unsettling in all the right ways.

It crosses several genres, horror science fiction, mystery and thrillers.

And because it’s a Kindle-exclusive title, you can download it instantly — perfect for:

Christmas Eve reading

A stocking stuffer for Kindle-loving friends

A Boxing Day escape while everyone else argues over leftover turkey

Holiday travel, when a dark tale is just the thing to pass the time

Treat Yourself to a Different Kind of Christmas Story collection

Whether you’re a lifelong horror reader or simply someone who loves a seasonal thrill, No Lips to Scream With delivers atmosphere, tension, and originality in abundance.

Click here to download your Christmas read today:

👉 https://amzn.to/3MnK5MR

Make yourself a mug of something warm, settle into your favourite chair, and enjoy a chilling journey into the darker side of winter storytelling.

It's 99p, or free with Kindle Unlimited.

Become a Child’s Secret Santa with Action for Children This Christmas. A That’s Christmas 365 Special Feature

At That’s Christmas 365, we spend all year celebrating the sparkle, joy, and togetherness that make the festive season so special. 

But for far too many children across the UK, Christmas is not a time of excitement, it’s a period of worry, cold nights, and empty cupboards.

That is why we are shining a spotlight on Action for Children’s Secret Santa scheme, a beautiful initiative that brings genuine Christmas magic to the young people who need it most.

What Is Action for Children’s Secret Santa?

Instead of buying yet another novelty gift or office Secret Santa trinket destined to sit in a drawer, you can become a real Secret Santa, the kind whose gift changes a life.

Action for Children’s scheme lets supporters purchase symbolic gifts, each representing vital support delivered by the charity’s frontline teams. Your money doesn’t go on packaging or wrapping; it goes straight into services that offer safety, warmth, and hope to vulnerable children across the UK.

Why It Matters This Year

Every Christmas, Action for Children sees demand rise, but the past few years have brought unprecedented challenges. 

Families already stretched to breaking point face the rising cost of living, unexpected bills, and the emotional strain of the season.

For a child experiencing poverty, instability, or isolation, your Secret Santa gift can make the difference between a bleak December and a Christmas filled with warmth and reassurance.

The Gifts You Can Give as a Secret Santa

One of the scheme’s strengths is its clarity. You choose a gift, and Action for Children turns it into real, practical support. Examples include:

A warm winter coat for a child who has none that fits

A hot meal for a young person struggling to get by

A safe night’s sleep for someone facing homelessness

A Christmas present for a child who may otherwise wake up to nothing

Mental health support for young people overwhelmed by the seasonThese are the sorts of gifts that immediately lift a child’s wellbeing, a truly meaningful way to share the spirit of Christmas.

More Than Just One Day of Magic

The beauty of the Secret Santa scheme is that its effects reach well beyond 25 December. 

Action for Children runs family support services, mental health programmes, youth outreach, financial guidance, early years centres, and crisis intervention throughout the entire year.

Your festive gesture helps fund sustained support, proof that Christmas kindness can ripple into spring, summer, and beyond.

How You Can Take Part

It couldn’t be simpler:

Visit Action for Children’s Secret Santa page.

Choose the gift that resonates with you.

Donate in minutes and become a real Secret Santa.

You can even donate in someone else’s name, a thoughtful present for family members, colleagues, teachers, or that friend who insists they “don’t need anything this year”.

Share the Christmas Spirit

If you’d like to do even more, spread the word. Share the scheme on social media, mention it at work, tell your church or community group, or organise a group donation. The more people who know about it, the more children have a chance at a joyful festive season.

This Christmas, Let’s Make the Magic Real

At That’s Christmas 365, we love the lights, the carols, the puddings, and the presents, but nothing embodies the true spirit of the season like helping a child feel safe, warm, and valued.

Becoming a Secret Santa for Action for Children is a small act that delivers immeasurable joy.

Just visit them at their website and see the loving, Christmas magic begin. https://www.actionforchildren.org.uk

Make a Seafood Feast the Star of Your Christmas Table

Create a stunning Christmas dinner with a luxurious seafood feast. 

From whole baked fish to extravagant shellfish platters, discover festive flavours, sides and serving ideas for a brilliant holiday centrepiece.

When most of us imagine Christmas dinner, we picture a golden turkey, a mountain of roast potatoes and the familiar trimmings passed down through generations. 

But in recent years, more households across Britain have been rethinking their festive menus and embracing something lighter, more luxurious and wonderfully celebratory: a seafood-focused Christmas feast.

If you’re ready to bring a touch of coastal sparkle to your holiday dining, here’s how to create a seafood centrepiece that feels both indulgent and perfectly seasonal.

Why Choose Seafood for Christmas?

Seafood offers a fresh, elegant alternative to the traditional roast. It’s ideal if you’re expecting fewer guests, catering for pescatarians, or simply fancy a change from the usual marathon of turkey-based cooking. 

It also tends to be quicker to prepare, giving you more time to enjoy the day rather than watching the oven like a hawk.

And from a presentation perspective, few things look as spectacular as a grand platter of lobster, gleaming prawns, plump scallops or a whole roasted fish.

Choosing Your Showstopper

Your centrepiece can take many forms, depending on budget, confidence level, and how dramatic you want the reveal to be.

1. Whole Baked Salmon or Sea Bass

A whole fish baked with herbs, citrus and seasonal vegetables looks impressive yet requires very little hands-on effort. It’s naturally festive when served on a large platter surrounded by sprigs of dill, pomegranate seeds and roasted new potatoes.

2. Luxury Shellfish Platter

For pure extravagance, nothing beats a cold seafood platter:

Lobster tails

King prawns

Oysters

Dressed crab

Smoked salmon

Add bowls of lemon wedges, Marie Rose sauce, and herb-infused butter, and you have a Christmas lunch worthy of a seaside grand hotel.

3. Scallops with a Winter Twist

Pan-seared scallops served with crispy pancetta, winter squash purée or even a splash of champagne butter make an unforgettable starter—or a decadent main if you serve larger portions.

4. Festive Seafood Paella

Perfect for a relaxed Christmas Eve gathering or Boxing Day feast. Packed with prawns, squid and mussels, it’s warm, colourful and a brilliant centre-of-table dish for communal eating.

Flavours That Feel Christmassy

Seafood pairs beautifully with seasonal ingredients. Consider adding:

Citrus: clementines, oranges, lemons

Fresh herbs: dill, parsley, chives

Winter spices: saffron, star anise or nutmeg in small amounts

Festive garnishes: pomegranate arils, cranberries (fresh or dried), edible gold dust

And don’t shy away from serving with a chilled glass of English sparkling wine, it’s a match made in heaven with shellfish.

Sides That Complement a Seafood Feast

To keep your table balanced and Christmassy, pair your seafood centrepiece with:

Roasted new potatoes or buttery mashed potatoes

Winter greens with garlic and lemon

Honey-roasted carrots and parsnips

A zesty fennel and orange salad

Crusty bread for mopping up sauces

These sides are light enough not to overwhelm the star of the show, yet seasonal enough to keep the festive spirit alive.

Make It Social and Spectacular

Presentation is everything with a seafood Christmas. Use large white platters, rustic wooden boards, or tiered stands to show off different elements. Add greenery, bay leaves, rosemary or holly (for decoration only!)—to bring in that unmistakable Christmas feel.

A few candles and a scattering of sea-salt flakes over the platter just before serving can elevate the whole moment.

A seafood-led Christmas dinner is a refreshing, elegant and utterly delicious way to celebrate the season. Whether you opt for a majestic whole fish or a lavish shellfish tower, it’s a wonderful opportunity to introduce new flavours and traditions to your festive table.

If you’ve never tried it before, this might just be the year to bring the seaside to your Christmas Day feast.

The Essential Sauces, Chutneys and Pickles for Your Christmastime Larder

Discover the essential sauces, chutneys and pickles to stock in your Christmastime larder, perfect for roasts, leftovers, cheese boards and festive buffets.

Christmastime brings together family, friends, and, let’s be honest, a lot of food. 

Whether you’re hosting the full feast, putting on a Boxing Day buffet, or simply trying to stay prepared for unexpected visitors, your festive larder is your secret weapon. 

Stocking it with the right sauces, chutneys, and pickles ensures that even the simplest leftovers or cold cuts can be transformed into something delicious.

Here’s a handy guide to what every Christmas kitchen should have at the ready.

1. Cranberry Sauce – the Christmas Classic

No festive table is complete without cranberry sauce. Whether you go for smooth, whole berry or a homemade spiced version, this is essential for turkey, nut roasts and Boxing Day sandwiches.

Tip: A jar of cranberry relish with orange or port adds extra luxury.

2. Bread Sauce – Comfort in a Bowl

A very British staple and often overlooked. Bread sauce pairs beautifully with poultry, gammon and even roasted vegetables.

Top up your larder: Pre-made sachets store well, but a homemade batch can be frozen ahead of time.

3. Horseradish – Not Just for Beef

Fiery, fragrant and incredibly versatile. Horseradish is a brilliant partner for roast beef, cold cuts and smoked fish. It also lifts leftover mash when stirred through.

4. English Mustard and Dijon Mustard

Two mustards, two purposes:

English mustard for heat and punch

Dijon mustard for creaminess and subtlety

Perfect for glazes, roast dinners, cheese boards and sauces.

5. Apple Sauce – For Pork, Turkey and Beyond

Usually associated with pork, apple sauce is also wonderful with turkey crown, savoury stuffing and many vegetarian centrepieces.

If you spot an apple and cider version, even better.

6. Redcurrant Jelly – A Roast Dinner Hero

Redcurrant jelly doesn’t get the attention cranberry sauce does, but it should. It cuts through richness, pairs brilliantly with lamb and beef, and adds gorgeous flavour to gravies.

7. Chutneys for the Boxing Day Feast

Boxing Day practically demands a chutney or three. Stock up on:

Caramelised onion chutney for cheese and pies

Ploughman’s chutney for cold meats

Tomato and chilli chutney for a little festive fire

A good chutney transforms leftovers into a full meal.

8. Pickled Onions – A Festive Favourite

Crisp, sharp and irresistible on any buffet table.

The strong ones are perfect with Cheddar and pork pie; milder sweet pickled onions are brilliant with pâté or sandwiches.

9. Cornichons and Gherkins

Small but mighty. These sharp little pickles cut through the richness of cheese boards, charcuterie, cold ham and terrines.

Keep one jar of classic gherkins and one jar of cornichons for variety.

10. Piccalilli – A British Treasure

That tangy, mustard-yellow mixture of cauliflower, onions and other vegetables is unbeatable with gammon, sausages, pork pies and cheese.

It’s one of the most useful jars in your Christmas cupboard.

11. Mint Sauce – Not Just for Spring Lamb

A light and refreshing counterbalance to heavier dishes.

Lovely with lamb, of course, but it also perks up leftover roast potatoes.

12. Gravy Granules and Stock Concentrates

Even if you plan to make gravy from scratch, always have a backup.

Christmas is hectic—and nothing ruins the mood like discovering you’re short on gravy during service.

13. Sweet Sauces and Pouring Treats

Keep a small sweet section ready for puddings and festive bakes:

Brandy butter

Vanilla custard

Salted caramel sauce

Chocolate sauce

Perfect for mince pies, Christmas pudding and impromptu desserts.

14. Chilli Jam – The Modern Must-Have

A dollop of chilli jam makes everything better: cheese boards, sausages, roasted veg, and even brie-topped crackers on Christmas Eve.

If you’ve never tried it, Christmas is the ideal excuse.

A well-stocked Christmastime larder gives you flexibility, creativity and peace of mind. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in quiet leftover meals between festivities, the right condiments elevate every plate.

Prepare now, and you’ll glide through the season with flavour and flair.

Why Steve’s Leaves Are Perfect for Your Christmas Salads

Bring freshness to your festive table with Steve’s Leaves. 

Discover why their tender, flavour-packed salads are perfect for Christmas dinners, buffets, and Boxing Day feasts.

When the Christmas season rolls in, most of us start thinking about rich roasts, golden potatoes, pigs in blankets, and decadent desserts.

 But there’s one unsung hero that quietly elevates the festive table: a fresh, vibrant, beautifully balanced salad. 

And when it comes to salad leaves that look and taste like Christmas cheer in a bowl, Steve’s Leaves deserves the spotlight.

Freshness That Makes a Real Difference

Steve’s Leaves is known for producing some of the freshest, most flavourful salad leaves available in UK supermarkets. They grow their leaves with care, harvesting them young so they’re naturally tender and mild. This makes them far more appealing than the limp or bitter salads we’ve all encountered at least once during the holiday rush.

Their leaves are washed in Hampshire chalk spring water, which not only preserves their crispness but enhances the clean, refreshing taste that pairs beautifully with heavier Christmas foods.

A Brilliant Balance for the Festive Table

Christmas dinners are famously indulgent. A bright salad is the perfect way to balance richer dishes—cutting through the fattiness of ham, turkey, or goose; complementing cheese boards; and bringing colour to the plate.

Steve’s Leaves blends often include mizuna, pea shoots, baby spinach, and other delicate greens that:

Add texture without overpowering other flavours

Hold dressings well

Stay crisp on the plate

Bring a welcome freshness to the meal

For a festive twist, you can mix their leaves with seasonal ingredients such as pomegranate seeds, orange segments, walnuts, or even roasted sprouts.

Ideal for Stress-Free Christmas Hosting

At Christmas, convenience matters just as much as taste. Steve’s Leaves packs are ready to serve straight from the bag, cutting down prep time when you’re juggling gravy, stuffing, roasties, and last-minute gift wrapping.

Their packaging is also thoughtfully designed to keep leaves fresher for longer, reducing the risk of waste—always helpful when you’re planning meals for guests who may or may not turn up depending on train strikes or flu season!

Great for Boxing Day and Beyond

Christmas salads aren’t just for the big day. On Boxing Day, when the leftovers come out, Steve’s Leaves offer a refreshing base for turkey salads, cold cuts, and buffet spreads. The light, green crunch adds variety and lifts what can often feel like a beige buffet into something colourful and inviting.

Festive Salad Ideas Featuring Steve’s Leaves

Here are a few easy combinations to try:

Pomegranate & Pistachio Salad: Baby leaves tossed with ruby pomegranate seeds and chopped pistachios, with a drizzle of honey and lemon.

Brie & Cranberry Leaf Salad: A wonderful way to use up leftover cheese and sauce.

Citrus Winter Salad: Blood orange or clementine slices with pea shoots and toasted almonds.

Warm Sprout & Bacon Salad: Crispy bacon and warm roasted sprouts over fresh spinach for a cosy twist.

A Healthy Counterbalance

Let’s be honest—December can be a nutritional minefield. A bowl of Steve’s Leaves here and there helps bring fibre, vitamins, and a sense of balance to the season without feeling like a compromise. Their leaves aren’t a diet food—they’re simply delicious, and they fit naturally into festive eating.

If you’re planning your Christmas shop, don’t overlook the salad aisle. A few packs of Steve’s Leaves can elevate your festive meals, brighten your Boxing Day buffet, and add a dash of colour to even the greyest December afternoon. 

Fresh, flavourful, and beautifully grown, they’re a small addition that makes a big difference.

Steve's Leaves are available at Waitrose.com and https://www.ocado.com

Can You Still Book a Kitchen Fitter Before Christmas? Here’s What You Need to Know

For many households, Christmas brings not only festive cheer but also the annual urge to spruce up the home before guests arrive. 

A brand-new kitchen in time for the holidays sounds wonderful, perhaps you had an unexpected bonus from work, or a modest lottery win, but is it still possible to book a fitter this close to Christmas?

The short answer: sometimes, yes… but you'll need a little luck and a lot of flexibility.

In this guide for That’s Christmas 365, we break down what’s realistic, what isn’t, and how you can boost your chances of securing a last-minute installation.

Why December Is So Busy for Kitchen Fitters

The run-up to Christmas is one of the peak periods for tradespeople. As soon as autumn arrives, diaries begin to fill with homeowners eager to complete renovations before the big day. By December, many fitters, especially the highly rated ones, are fully booked until January or even later.

That doesn’t mean all hope is lost, but it does mean you’ll need to be strategic.

When You Can Still Secure a Pre-Christmas Booking

While the majority of established kitchen installers are booked up, last-minute availability does crop up particularly for:

Smaller or straightforward jobs

If you're swapping cabinets, upgrading worktops, or fitting new appliances rather than ripping everything out, some fitters may be able to squeeze you in.

Independent fitters rather than big chains

Large retailers such as B&Q, Wickes or Magnet often have long lead times. Independent tradespeople, however, may have gaps between larger projects.

Cancellations

It happens more often than you’d think. A customer postpones or delays their install, and suddenly a fitter has two or three days free.

Premium short-notice work

Some teams specifically offer express installations at a higher rate. If your budget stretches, this can be a lifesaver.

What Could Hold Up Your Christmas Kitchen?

Even if you find a fitter, the install can only go ahead if everything is ready on your end.

Stock and Delivery

Cabinets, appliances and fittings must be:

Delivered

Checked

Undamaged

In your home before the fitter arrives

Any delays here can push the project into January.

Worktops

Solid-surface materials like quartz or granite require templating before they’re cut. This alone can take 1–3 weeks, making pre-Christmas installation unlikely at this point.

Laminate worktops, however, can usually be fitted immediately.

Tips for Finding a Fitter Fast

If you’re determined to get your kitchen sorted before Father Christmas pays a visit, try these steps:

Check local Facebook and community groups, many fitters advertise availability here.

Contact independent installers directly, don’t rely solely on big retailers.

Ask about cancellations, tradespeople appreciate polite, prompt customers who can act fast.

Be flexible with dates and timing, even a two-day job can make a big difference.

Consider splitting the job, for example, units installed now, tiling or specialist worktops fitted in January.

So, Is a Pre-Christmas Kitchen Still Possible?

Yes... but it’s not guaranteed.

If your kitchen is already delivered, the design is straightforward, and you move quickly, you may still secure a fitter in time. But if you’re only beginning the process now, you’ll likely need to plan for early in the New Year.

Either way, a refreshed kitchen, whether this month or next, can make all the difference to your home, your cooking, and your Christmas cheer.