Some things are as sure as the sun rising in the East, and one of those things is that jollof rice is the go-to food for when we have big occasions in this part of the world, and Christmas is not left out.

My family travelled to the village every Christmas season, and for us, Christmas day food was rice and stew (not to forget the mayonnaise-smothered salad) with the ever-present chicken, sweating in the harmattan heat as we washed the feast down with cold coke - and when Dad was feeling generous, the rare half-cup of wine.

Good times, but aren’t you tired of having the same thing every Christmas since you were a child? Yes, I’m starting to sound like a jollof hater, but we do have other types of food in Naija abeg.

As part of your adulting responsibilities, you might have to make Christmas dinner for your family or friends, and we know that the most stressful part of this season is food preparation and then washing and cleaning up after. I’ve considered that in curating these ideas: one or two people can put these meals together without feeling overwhelmed.

I haven’t added any appetizers or desserts because that’s not really how we roll, lol, but there’s an option for an additional side dish if you want multiple options at your table. You can also combine two or more of these dishes to create a feast.

Let’s dive right in: simple, tasty, easy options you can make on Christmas, because not every time jollof.

When rice is not an option, the next best thing is swallow. It could be vegetable soup, egusi, okro, or a native soup you can whip up really quickly without thinking too much about it. The goat meat nkwobi adds a second, delicious course to your menu. Your family won’t stop talking about your cooking skills for a while.

My favourite thing about curry is that it is a low effort, high reward dish, especially the way we make it; with the mixed veggies adding a vibrant colour - and more nutrition. If you’re really serious about cutting off rice this season, then try your hand at some flatbread to accompany your curry. Gizdodo is a much-loved delicacy that can also be used as a sauce for rice, and will roll nicely in flatbread too.

What’s Christmas without chicken? The best thing about roasting your potatoes (or plantains) is that you can put it in the oven with the chicken, and in a few minutes, food is ready. Add the salad for nutrition and colour, and to give your meal a filling boost. Perfect for small gatherings and minimal food prep required.

Adding a side of asun is still optional, but it gives your guests something to munch on while they recover from the main meal.

What goes better with fun conversation and friends than peppersoup? Whether your thing is goat meat, chicken or fish, it’s quick to make. If you’re up for a side dish, then a little bit of extra effort will whip up some abacha to make it look like you did so much.

Coconut rice is a win with most people, take it a step further with some seafood to add some spice. Following with peppered snails is just the natural progression.

Have I helped you with your Christmas dinner menu? Take some bomb pictures and tag us, we’re here for all the delicious offerings of this Christmas season.