As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, it’s time to gather with friends and family to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one. What better way to do so than with a festive feast? In this article, we’ll share our top 18 recipes for a glorious New Year’s Eve celebration. From savory appetizers to decadent desserts, we’ve got you covered with a range of dishes that are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a grand bash, these recipes offer something for everyone.
Get ready to ring in the new year in style!
Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your party game with this elegant and flavorful appetizer that combines the creaminess of brie cheese with the sweetness of cranberry sauce. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 1 pound)
– 1/4 cup of cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the brie cheese wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the cranberry sauce and honey over the brie cheese, spreading it evenly.
4. Sprinkle the chopped thyme over the top.
5. Arrange the baguette slices around the cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-American recipe combines succulent shrimp with the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and lemon for a dish that’s sure to please. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium, then add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
6. Pour in lemon juice and stir until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss with garlic butter sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Reduction
Impress your guests with a tender and flavorful beef tenderloin, paired with a rich red wine reduction. This show-stopping dish is perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloin for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
4. While the tenderloin cooks, reduce the red wine in a saucepan over high heat until almost syrupy, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add beef broth and butter to the saucepan, whisking until smooth. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with the red wine reduction spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
This recipe elevates the humble asparagus to a new level with the addition of crispy, salty prosciutto. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the asparagus spears on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Wrap each asparagus spear with prosciutto, overlapping slices slightly if necessary.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the wrapped asparagus and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Salmon Canapés
Elevate your party with these bite-sized canapés featuring smoky salmon, creamy cheese, and crispy crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package water crackers (about 20-25 crackers)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together smoked salmon, cream cheese, lemon juice, and dill until well combined.
2. Arrange the water crackers on a serving plate or board.
3. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of the salmon mixture onto each cracker.
4. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: None! These canapés are ready in just a few minutes to assemble.
Truffle Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this decadent truffle version that’s sure to impress. Rich, creamy cheese sauce infused with the deep flavor of truffles creates a truly indulgent comfort food experience.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
5. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and truffle oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade
Savor the flavors of the coast with these bite-sized crab cakes, perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Remoulade sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, bell pepper, mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with melted butter.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Champagne Cocktail with Elderflower
Elevate your champagne game with this refreshing twist on a classic cocktail. The subtle flavor of elderflower liqueur perfectly complements the effervescence of champagne, making for a sophisticated and delightful drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of champagne (chilled)
– 1 oz elderflower liqueur
– 1 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Sliced strawberries or lemon twists for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a champagne flute with ice.
2. Pour the elderflower liqueur and simple syrup over the ice.
3. Top with chilled champagne.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with sliced strawberries or lemon twists.
Cooking Time: None (just chill and serve!)
Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese
Transform humble mushrooms into a rich and satisfying appetizer with this simple recipe. Cream cheese, Parmesan, and herbs combine to create a decadent filling that will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese with Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean and fill each cap with the cream cheese mixture, mounding slightly in the center.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and tender.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pomegranate Glazed Lamb Chops
Tender lamb chops smothered in a sweet and tangy pomegranate glaze, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place lamb chops in a shallow dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the meat.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear lamb chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until lamb reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Thermidor
A rich and decadent dish that showcases the indulgent flavor of lobster, Lobster Thermidor is a classic French recipe that’s sure to impress. With its buttery sauce and flaky crust, this dish is perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup cognac (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cognac (if using) and cook until flamed, then add heavy cream, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add lobster meat to the sauce and cook until heated through.
4. Transfer lobster mixture to a baking dish and top with cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Sprinkle parsley on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Elevate your snacking game with this sweet and savory combination of crispy bacon and succulent dates.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted Medjool or Barhi dates
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon (such as applewood-smoked)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon into thirds, so you have 18 pieces in total.
3. Wrap each date with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
5. Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle the sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly over the dates.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta
A flavorful twist on a classic side dish, this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts while adding a savory and aromatic element from pancetta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 slices pancetta, diced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. During the last 2 minutes of roasting, add diced pancetta to the baking sheet. The heat will crisp the pancetta slightly.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dark Chocolate Fondue with Fresh Fruit
This indulgent treat combines the richness of dark chocolate with the natural sweetness of fresh fruit, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll be enjoying this delightful fondue in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Fresh fruit of your choice (e.g., strawberries, bananas, grapes, pineapple)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, stirring occasionally.
2. Once melted, add the heavy cream and butter; stir until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly to thicken (about 5 minutes).
4. Arrange your chosen fresh fruit on a platter or individual serving dishes.
5. Dip your favorite fruits into the warm chocolate fondue and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sparkling Rosé Punch
Elevate your gatherings with this refreshing Sparkling Rosé Punch, perfect for summer soirees and special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rosé wine
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water dissolved)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Sliced lemons for garnish, if desired
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine rosé wine, simple syrup, and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Add the sparkling water and stir gently to combine.
3. Muddle in the chopped fresh mint leaves by stirring them in with a spoon or muddler.
4. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Sparkling Rosé Punch chilled, garnished with sliced lemons if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Caviar Blinis with Crème Fraîche
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these delicate caviar-topped blinis, served with a dollop of crème fraîche.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of blini mix (or 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup warm water, and 1/4 teaspoon salt)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup crème fraîche
– 1 tablespoon caviar (such as salmon or trout roe)
– Chopped fresh dill or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix blini ingredients and cook according to package instructions.
3. Brush the tops with melted butter and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
4. Spread a dollop of crème fraîche on each blini.
5. Top with caviar and garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including baking time)
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and elegant herb-crusted rack of lamb recipe, perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 bone) rack of lamb
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the rack of lamb on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly over the lamb, making sure to get it into all the crevices.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the lamb, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
Cooking Time: approximately 40-50 minutes for a 1-2 pound rack of lamb
Tiramisu Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this creative twist on the classic Italian treat. Layers of ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and espresso create a show-stopping trifle that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dip each ladyfinger into the cooled coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
2. In a large bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. To assemble the trifle, start with a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Top with half of the mascarpone mixture.
4. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of mascarpone on top.
5. Chill for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving. If desired, top with whipped cream and cocoa powder.
Cooking Time: None required!
Summary
Ring in the new year with a feast fit for royalty! These 18 festive recipes offer a variety of delicious and impressive dishes to impress your guests. From savory options like Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Reduction, Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus, and Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, to sweet treats like Truffle Mac and Cheese, Dark Chocolate Fondue with Fresh Fruit, and Tiramisu Trifle, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget the champagne cocktails and sparkling punches to toast the start of a new year!
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