Celebrate the season with Village Farms tomatoes, paired perfectly with cheese and wine to delight your guests and elevate your holiday spread. With cooking, roasting, or skewering options for versatility, this guide will inspire your festive meals with thoughtful, flavorful pairings.
The Symbolism of the 12 Days Through Food
Each day of the 12 Days of Christmas can reflect a different facet of the season’s joy and meaning, symbolized by the vibrant pairings of tomatoes, cheese, and wine. Like the gifts in the carol, these foods remind us of life’s abundance and beauty:
Bright tomatoes symbolize renewal, vitality, and the warmth of family gatherings.
Artisan cheeses represent richness and the nurturing bonds of community.
Fine wines capture the festive spirit and the joy of sharing in life’s blessings.
Why We Feast?
Feasting before and during the 12 Days of Christmas brings together two key aspects of this time of year:
- Anticipation and Gratitude: Leading up to December 25, we celebrate the anticipation of joy—giving thanks for what we have while preparing for the renewal symbolized by Christmas and the solstice.
- Reflection and Sharing: The 12 Days following Christmas are a time to reflect on the meaning of love, light, and hope in our lives. Food plays a central role as we gather with loved ones, sharing in the abundance of the season.
A Celebration of Faith and Connection
By pairing each of the 12 Days of Christmas with the vibrant flavors of Village Farms tomatoes, complemented by fine wines and cheeses, we create a feast that honors both ancient traditions and the joy of modern gatherings. Whether you celebrate the season’s religious significance, its cultural traditions, or simply the warmth of family and friends, these thoughtful pairings symbolize community, gratitude, and the renewal of hope.
Let the season inspire you to savor its blessings, share its abundance, and embrace its timeless spirit of love and joy.
Merry Christmas!
– On the First Day of Christmas –
Heavenly Villagio Marzano® (Roasted)
Cheese: Burrata
Roasting these mini San Marzano-style tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the creamy, buttery texture of burrata. Finish with olive oil and cracked pepper.
Wine: Chianti Classico
This bright red wine’s acidity and cherry notes perfectly match the tomato’s rich, sweet flavor.
– On the Second Day of Christmas –
Sinfully Sweet Campari® (Skewered)
Cheese: Fresh Mozzarella
Skewer Campari tomatoes with mozzarella balls and fresh basil for a holiday twist on Caprese salad. Add a balsamic drizzle for extra flair.
Wine: Sauvignon Blanc
The crisp citrus and herbaceous notes of Sauvignon Blanc complement the bright acidity and sweetness of these tomatoes.
– On the Third Day of Christmas –
Sensational Sara®
Cheese: Aged Manchego
These tomatoes are juicy, firm, and slightly tangy, pairing wonderfully with Manchego’s nutty, slightly salty flavor.
Wine: Rioja
A Spanish red with earthy, berry notes enhances the tomato’s balance of sweetness and acidity, echoing the Manchego pairing.
– On the Fourth Day of Christmas –
Good Day Sunshine®
Cheese: Ricotta
These golden-hued tomatoes are mild, sweet, and low in acidity. Pair with whipped ricotta and honey for a dessert-style dish or use as a base for a festive tart.
Wine: Viognier
A floral, medium-bodied white wine complements the sweetness and delicate flavor of these tomatoes.
– On the Fifth Day of Christmas –
Cabernet Estate Reserve® (Roasted)
Cheese: Gruyère
Roasting these savory, robust tomatoes deepens their umami profile. Pair with Gruyère for its nutty, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the tomato’s richness.
Wine: Malbec
A bold red wine with dark fruit and chocolate notes stands up to the tomato’s intensity.
– On the Sixth Day of Christmas –
Cherry No. 9 Fall in Love Again® (Skewered)
Cheese: Brie
Skewer these sweet cherry tomatoes with Brie and drizzle with honey for a luxurious appetizer. Add fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch.
Wine: Prosecco
This sparkling wine’s crisp bubbles and slight sweetness highlight the vibrant flavor of these tomatoes.
– On the Seventh Day of Christmas –
Juicy Beefsteak (Sliced)
Cheese: Aged Cheddar
Sliced Beefsteak tomatoes are ideal for layering with sharp aged cheddar on crusty bread or in sandwiches. Add a dash of mustard for a bold holiday snack.
Wine: Zinfandel
This rich, fruity red wine enhances the meaty texture and natural sweetness of the tomato.
– On the Eighth Day of Christmas –
Heavenly Villagio Marzano TRIO Collection® (Stuffed)
Cheese: Goat Cheese
Hollow out these dense, tangy tomatoes and stuff them with herbed goat cheese. Bake until golden for a warm and comforting holiday dish.
Wine: Pinot Noir
A light-bodied red with earthy, berry notes complements the tomato’s tangy flavor and creamy filling.
– On the Ninth Day of Christmas –
Exquisite Heirlooms (Raw or Roasted)
Cheese: Blue Cheese
Heirlooms are beautifully complex, with a mix of sweet, tangy, and earthy flavors. Pair with the bold, tangy taste of blue cheese for a dynamic pairing. Serve fresh or roasted with a drizzle of honey.
Wine: Rosé of Syrah
A rosé with vibrant berry and floral notes mirrors the tomato’s complex flavor and adds a festive touch.
– On the Tenth Day of Christmas –
Delectable TOV (Sliced or Grilled)
Cheese: Halloumi
Grilled TOV (tomatoes on the vine) paired with Halloumi offers a smoky, salty, and sweet combination. Add a sprinkle of oregano for Mediterranean flair.
Wine: Grenache
A medium-bodied red wine with soft tannins and berry notes balances the tomato’s sweet smokiness.
– On the Eleventh Day of Christmas –
Lip Smackn’ Grape®
Cheese: Cream Cheese
Sweet grape tomatoes shine when paired with the smooth texture and mild flavor of cream cheese. Serve on crostini with fresh dill for a festive snack.
Wine: Moscato d’Asti
The light sweetness and sparkle of Moscato d’Asti echo the tomato’s natural sugars for a delightful pairing.
– On the Twelfth Day of Christmas –
Maverick Mix® (Roasted with Herbs)
Cheese: Parmigiano-Reggiano
Roast these firm tomatoes with rosemary and thyme to concentrate their flavor. Shave Parmigiano-Reggiano over the top for a nutty, salty finish.
Wine: Barolo
This full-bodied Italian red wine matches the tomato’s robust, roasted flavor for an elegant pairing.
Tips for Hosting a Holiday Pairing Party
- Festive Presentation: Arrange tomatoes, cheese, and wine on boards with seasonal touches like cranberries, pine sprigs, and candles.
- Interactive Pairings: Encourage guests to create their favorite combinations using the prepared options.
- Cooking Variety: Incorporate raw, roasted, skewered, and stuffed tomato options to keep the menu exciting.
With this guide, you’ll transform your holiday celebrations into a flavorful and elegant experience. Village Farms tomatoes, paired with artisanal cheeses and festive wines, bring a touch of gourmet to your Christmas table.
Happy holidays! 🎄🍷🧀
