Whatever your Christmas Eve tradition (be it an elaborate Feast of the 7 Fishes or an all-out dinner party with holiday appetizers, a dazzling roast and plenty of festive sides) it never hurts to have a few extra recipes on hand. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of our favorites. You’ll find everything from crowd-pleasing stuffed mushrooms to a very merry Bundt cake—but there’s no denying the wow-factor that a crown roast of lamb brings to the table. Valerie’s take on this Christmas classic is undeniably elegant—and made even better with her savory mint-and-onion pesto. We wouldn't be surprised if this dish became a new Christmas Eve tradition in your home.

Thanks to its festive colors, this pasta salad will shine bright on your holiday table.

This is a centerpiece fit for a celebratory gathering. We added extra pine nuts and reduced the olive oil a bit to make a chunky pesto that spreads easily but does not melt out in the oven. Any mozzarella bits sticking out of the "branches" become golden brown and crunchy.

No holiday table is complete without a bread basket. Ree takes a shortcut by using frozen dinner rolls, which she dresses up with an herby melted butter.