Final Hours to the New Year: Your New Year's Eve Spread.

When it involves hosting parties, people usually separate into a pair of quite separate categories: people that enjoy the process, and the ones that would rather to do virtually another thing. Being prepared in advance is key, and choosing a few delicious recipes to start the proceedings will amuse your guests while you work to manage everything.

Spicy Almonds with Fennel, Lemon & Paprika

Zesty almond snack

These citrusy, flavorful nibbles make for a ideal pairing for the vibrant pink grapefruit mocktails listed below.

Salmon & Ricotta on Buckwheat Blinis

Festive starter with blinis

A delicious celebration starter that can readily be adapted to present with a sweet spread for younger guests.

Pink Grapefruit, Cardamom and Lime Mocktails

Citrusy non-alcoholic drink

These concoctions are a invigorating option to alcohol, but also create a tasty ingredient for a tequila-based drink.

Lemon-Infused Juniper Martinis

Homemade martini cocktail

Handcrafted spirit for a particularly festive celebration martini, ideal for sharing or serving at parties.

Slow-Cooked Shredded Lamb Shoulder with Red Onion Sumac Salad

Succulent lamb dish

Bask in the glory of this show-stopping spread – everyone will ever guess how modest effort was involved.

Chocolate Tart with Spiced Cranberry

Rich chocolate cranberry tart

In this indulgent sweet treat, puddles of spiced cranberry compote are baked into a dark chocolate base for a combination that uses any extra of berries to delicious use.

Susan French
Susan French

An experienced journalist with a passion for investigative reporting and a focus on Central European affairs.