Countdown to the Next Year: The New Year's Eve Spread.

When it is about throwing celebrations, guests often split into a pair of quite different categories: people that enjoy doing it, and the ones that would choose to do practically another thing. Staying ready ahead of time is crucial, and finding a few tasty dishes to kick off the proceedings will delight your visitors while you aim to keep the show on the road.

Fennel, Lemon and Smoked Paprika Almonds

Spicy almond snack

These citrusy, spicy nibbles prove to be a perfect companion for the vibrant pink grapefruit mocktails featured further down.

Buckwheat Blinis with Ricotta and Salmon

Festive starter with blinis

A delicious holiday first course that can readily be modified to offer with a sweet spread for the kids.

Refreshing Grapefruit Mocktails with Cardamom & Lime

Citrusy non-alcoholic drink

These beverages are a zesty substitute to spirits, but also create a wonderful ingredient for a tequila-based cocktail.

Lemon-Infused Juniper Martinis

Classic martini cocktail

Home-infused spirit for a unique festive drink, ideal for sharing or pouring at events.

Tender Lamb with a Zingy Sumac and Onion Salad

Slow-cooked lamb dish

Revel in the glory of this show-stopping spread – no one will for a moment guess how little preparation was needed.

Chocolate Tart with Spiced Cranberry

Rich chocolate cranberry tart

In this decadent finale, swirls of aromatic cranberry compote are baked into a chocolate frangipane for a combination that uses any surfeit of berries to good purpose.

Steven Barton
Steven Barton

Aisha Patel is a journalist and editor with over a decade of experience covering Asian affairs and digital media trends.