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

When it involves hosting gatherings, guests tend to split into two very separate camps: people that love doing it, and people that would choose to do almost something else. Being organized ahead of time is key, and finding a few delicious recipes to begin the proceedings will entertain your visitors while you work to keep the show on the road.

Spicy Almonds with Fennel, Lemon & Paprika

Savory almond snack

These tangy, spicy nibbles prove to be a ideal match for the vibrant pink grapefruit mocktails featured next.

Salmon & Ricotta on Buckwheat Blinis

Delicious starter with blinis

A delicious holiday first course that can conveniently be adapted to present with a different topping for the kids.

Pink Grapefruit, Cardamom and Lime Mocktails

Vibrant non-alcoholic drink

These beverages are a zesty alternative to spirits, but also create a delicious base for a tequila-based beverage.

Juniper and Lemon Martinis

Homemade martini cocktail

Home-infused spirit for a particularly festive festive drink, perfect for giving as a present or serving at gatherings.

Shredded Lamb Shoulder with Sumac Onion Salad

Slow-cooked lamb dish

Enjoy the admiration of this show-stopping feast – no one will possibly guess how modest preparation was needed.

Spiced Cranberry and Chocolate Tart

Rich chocolate cranberry tart

In this decadent sweet treat, pockets of aromatic cranberry jam are baked into a dark chocolate frangipane for a combination that makes any surfeit of holiday fruit to delicious use.

Michael Patterson
Michael Patterson

A tech journalist and digital strategist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and startup ecosystems.