Countdown to the New Year: Your Holiday Menu.

When it is about hosting gatherings, guests usually split into a pair of very distinct groups: the ones that adore doing it, and the ones that would choose to do virtually something else. Being prepared in advance is key, and choosing a few scrumptious dishes to begin the evening will entertain your attendees while you aim to hold everything together.

Fennel, Lemon and Smoked Paprika Almonds

Savory almond snack

These citrusy, flavorful snacks prove to be a perfect companion for the refreshing pink grapefruit mocktails listed next.

Buckwheat Blinis with Ricotta and Salmon

Delicious starter with blinis

A scrumptious festive first course that can easily be modified to serve with a sweet spread for younger guests.

Cardamom-Lime Grapefruit Mocktails

Vibrant non-alcoholic drink

These beverages are a invigorating alternative to spirits, but additionally serve as a wonderful ingredient for a tequila-based cocktail.

Lemon-Infused Juniper Martinis

Classic martini cocktail

Home-infused spirit for a unique festive drink, perfect for sharing or serving at parties.

Shredded Lamb Shoulder with Sumac Onion Salad

Succulent lamb dish

Revel in the praise of this show-stopping spread – everyone will ever suspect how modest work was needed.

Spiced Cranberry and Chocolate Tart

Festive chocolate cranberry tart

In this indulgent finale, puddles of spiced cranberry jam are nestled into a chocolate base for a duo that puts any surfeit of berries to excellent effect.

Chelsea Nguyen
Chelsea Nguyen

Elena Rivers is a professional poker player and strategist with over a decade of experience in high-stakes tournaments.