It’s already the holidays and naturally turkey, ham, pumpkin spice, and gingerbread are on everyone’s minds.

Along with creating the picture-perfect tablescape, people look forward to spending time together gathered around the table exchanging stories and sharing laughs.

While classics such as prime rib, stuffing, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce usually make an appearance among the spread, there’s more to be discovered. Around the world, people put their own spin on their festive meals.

Here are holiday recipe ideas from around the world to add to your menu!

1. Pecan-Orange Baklava Pie
   With a name sounding just as delicious as it tastes, this Pecan-Orange Baklava Pie will complement any additional desserts already on the menu. Flaky dough, alongside a heaping amount of honey, offers a dessert just as sweet as the holiday itself.
   See the full recipe here.
2. Cucumber Kimchi
   While you can’t go wrong with the classic sweet and savory flavors of the holidays, surprising your guests with a kick of spice isn’t a bad idea. If the addition of spicy flavors isn’t enough, it’s recommended to make this dish 4-5 days in advance. What’s better than eliminating dishes that require same-day prep?
   See the full recipe here.
   If you’re interested in learning more Korean recipes, watch our virtual program Beyond Kimchi: An Introduction to Korean Cooking.
3. Maple Glazed Rutabaga
   While glazes are a popular addition to turkey dishes, they pair well with a number of other items. Take Maple Glazed Rutabaga for example. Often overlooked, maple syrup and butter give the root a flavor like no other, making it the perfect side on any menu.
   See the full recipe here.
4. Holiday Tamales
   During the holidays, homemade tamales are a common tradition across many Mexican households. Whether they’re sweet and stuffed with fruits or savory and filled with vegetables or marinated meat, holiday
   View a recipe here here or check out a Mexican cookbooks from our collection.
5. Ghapama
   Looking for something to do with those pumpkins leftover from Halloween? This tasty dish which includes rice, dried fruit, and nuts, is easy to make and looks beautiful on any dinner table.A common dish amongst Armenians during the holiday season, ghapama is sure to be a dish your guests will enjoy as a side to your main entrée. The dish can be made vegan by substituting the butter with your choice of vegetable oil.
   See the full recipe here.
6. West African Peanut Stew
   Sweet potatoes, peanuts, pinto beans, ginger root and coriander are just a few of the flavorful ingredients that go into this comforting and mouth-watering vegan recipe.
   Check out the full recipe  here or look for other inspirational recipes in our collection of cookbooks that represent cuisines across the African continent.
7. Filipino Rice Noodles
   Pancit Bihon (Filipino Rice Noodles) is a noodle dish made with vegetables, seafood, and/or meat. It’s a popular dish served in the Philippines and commonly served at birthdays, holidays, and celebrations since noodles symbolize long life.
   Try this recipe here or view other delectable Filipino recipes by checking out a Filipino cookbook.
8. Potato Latkes
   Spruce up your potato side dish and try serving a batch of crispy potato latkes. Latkes are a type of potato pancake or fritter in Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine that is traditionally prepared to celebrate Hanukkah.
   Give them a try and try this recipe here. The Library also has a host of Jewish cookbooks that are sure to open your eyes to a variety of traditional dishes that can be served all year round.
9. Peruvian Yuca Fries
   Yuca, a root vegetable native to South America, is also known as cassava and manioc. This tropical root vegetable is a staple source of carbohydrate in many parts of Latin America and Asia. It’s easy to find yuca or cassava across many supermarkets and ethnic food stores. Try serving your yuca fries with a verdant Peruvian green dipping sauce.
   View the yuca fries recipe here and don’t forget to look up the recipe for aji verde sauce. For additional recipe ideas, view our extensive selection of Latin American cookbooks here.
10. Vegetable Pakora
    A common Indian snack, vegetable pakora are crispy fried vegetable fritters made with gram flour, spices, and your choice of vegetables. If you’re looking for a flavorful appetizer recipe this holiday season, these zesty morsels may be a crowd pleaser.
    View the recipe here and don’t forget to check out other Indian recipes in one of our Indian cookbooks.

Whether you surprise your guests by incorporating one of these delicious dishes into your menu or stick with the classic turkey and gravy combo everyone knows and enjoys, that post-turkey nap will hit the spot.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, we offer a variety of cookbooks across our vast collection. Enjoy!