Looking for original dishes to include on your restaurant's Christmas menu? We've got the answer: five unusual ideas that give a nod to tradition by revisiting classics or proposing new combinations. Discover our suggestions.

1. Mortadella Sushi as an appetizer

A surprising addition to traditional Italian dining, this appetizer blends Emilian flavors with Eastern culinary traditions. Don't panic: there's no seaweed or raw fish involved; the star of this dish is mortadella.

This appetizer is quick and easy to make, but the result is truly original. Simply cut the mortadella into strips about 3 cm wide, spread a layer of soft cheese on top, and roll it up.

To finish, serve garnished with balsamic cream or toasted pistachios with honey. For a refreshing twist, serve a Mortadella Ice n Roll topped with shaved Parmigiano Reggiano and Balsamic Vinegar of Modena.

2. Crepe cannelloni as a first course

Stuffed cannelloni, and baked pasta in general, are a fundamental Christmas dish. This essential dish can be reinterpreted with a lighter twist: stuffed crepe cannelloni.

This one, too, is very simple to make. Using La Crêperie , your savory crêpes will be perfect and ready in seconds. Cook the filling separately, which can be made with diced vegetables and béchamel sauce, ragù or flour, spinach, and walnuts.

3. Salmon perfect for Christmas Eve and lunch

One of the ingredients that can never be missing from any Christmas menu is salmon. Versatile and with a sweet and full-bodied flavor, this fish is perfect for any holiday occasion, serving it both for Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas Day lunch.

With the Combi Wave , you can prepare a freshly cooked dish, ready to serve. Cooking 300g of salmon takes just 60 seconds, an unbeatable time. Serve it with a raspberry, lemon, and pomegranate sauce, a condiment that enhances the salmon's delicate flavor.

4. Fresh side dish to lighten up the menu

The holiday season is a food and wine marathon for everyone, so a fresh side dish on your Christmas menu is perfect for lightening up the meal. Try a crisp apple and celery salad or a fennel and orange salad.

The light and refreshing taste will be appreciated by your customers.

5. The dessert of the Christmas menu

Last but not least, the final moment of the Christmas menu: the dessert course. On the menu, next to the Yule Log, add the original Space Bun —filled with mascarpone and chocolate chips or custard, black cherry, fresh fruit, and a white chocolate Squeezita , made in collaboration with Italian Food Factory.

An original and unusual Christmas menu can surprise your customers and make you innovative and competitive. Looking for ideas to attract customers at Christmas? Discover our strategies for capturing customer attention during the holidays .