Countdown to the New Year: The Holiday Menu.

When it is about throwing celebrations, people often divide into a pair of quite distinct categories: people that love the process, and those who would prefer to do almost something else. Being organized in advance is essential, and choosing a few delicious creations to start the evening will entertain your guests while you work to keep the show on the road.

Citrusy Smoked Paprika Almonds with Fennel

Zesty almond snack

These zesty, spicy nibbles are a ideal companion for the refreshing pink grapefruit mocktails featured below.

Buckwheat Blinis with Ricotta and Salmon

Delicious starter with blinis

A delicious holiday first course that can easily be altered to present with a fruity topping for children.

Cardamom-Lime Grapefruit Mocktails

Colorful non-alcoholic drink

These beverages are a zesty substitute to booze, but also create a delicious mixer for a tequila-based cocktail.

Lemon-Infused Juniper Martinis

Sophisticated martini cocktail

Handcrafted gin for a unique celebration martini, great for sharing or pouring at parties.

Tender Lamb with a Zingy Sumac and Onion Salad

Slow-cooked lamb dish

Revel in the praise of this show-stopping feast – everyone will for a moment realize how modest work was required.

Festive Chocolate Cranberry Tart

Decadent chocolate cranberry tart

In this rich dessert, swirls of warmly spiced cranberry compote are cooked into a chocolaty frangipane for a flavor pairing that puts any surfeit of cranberries to excellent effect.

Cindy Vazquez
Cindy Vazquez

A tech journalist and digital strategist with a passion for exploring emerging technologies and their impact on society.