Christmas on the Sunshine Coast is all about fresh, flavorful meals that celebrate the season’s bounty. With so many delicious fruits and vegetables in season, it’s the perfect time to incorporate local produce into your festive feasts. Here are some of the best Christmas recipes showcasing in-season Sunshine Coast ingredients to make your celebrations extra special.

1. Fresh Berry Pavlova
No Aussie Christmas is complete without pavlova! Add a summery twist with in-season berries.
Ingredients:
- 4 egg whites
- 1 cup caster sugar
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1 cup fresh mixed seasonal berries
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 150°C. Beat egg whites until soft peaks form, then gradually add sugar. Mix in vinegar.
- Spread the mixture in a wreath-shape on a round baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 1 hour, then cool.
- Top with whipped cream and berries.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh mint and a sprinkle of icing sugar.
2. Mango & Avocado Salad
Bright, zesty, and refreshing, this salad is a summer favorite and perfect as a side dish for Christmas lunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced
- 2 avocados, sliced
- Mixed greens (spinach, rocket, or kale)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Feta cheese (optional)
- Lime juice and olive oil for dressing
Instructions:
- Arrange greens on a serving platter.
- Top with mangoes, avocados, and cherry tomatoes.
- Crumble feta over the salad if using.
- Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil, then serve chilled.
3. Pineapple-Glazed Ham
A Christmas classic with a Sunshine Coast twist!
Ingredients:
- 1 cooked ham
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Pineapple rings for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Mix pineapple juice, brown sugar, and mustard in a bowl to make the glaze.
- Score the ham, brush with the glaze, and bake for 1 hour, basting every 15 minutes.
- Garnish with pineapple rings for a festive touch.
4. Grilled Vegetable Platter
Perfect for vegetarians or as a colorful side dish.
Ingredients:
- Zucchini, capsicum, eggplant, and corn
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Slice vegetables and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill until tender and lightly charred.
- Arrange on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs.
5. Tropical Fruit Trifle
End your Christmas meal with a show-stopping dessert!
Ingredients:
- Sponge cake
- Mango puree
- Vanilla custard
- Whipped cream
- Fresh fruits: mango, pineapple, berries, and banana
Instructions:
- Layer sponge cake, mango puree, custard, and fruits in a trifle bowl.
- Repeat layers and top with whipped cream and more fruits.
- Chill for 2 hours before serving.
Celebrate Christmas with Fruity LIFE
At Fruity LIFE, we have everything you need for your festive table. From ripe mangoes to fresh veggies, our locally sourced produce will elevate your Christmas dishes. Check out our Weekly Specials tab for the freshest picks this week, and make your holiday meal unforgettable!
Wishing you a flavourful and joyful Christmas from all of us at Fruity LIFE!