Countdown to the Next Year: The Holiday Menu.

When it is about organizing parties, guests usually divide into a pair of very distinct groups: those who enjoy doing it, and those who would choose to do practically anything else. Being organized ahead of time is essential, and choosing a few delicious dishes to kick off the evening will entertain your visitors while you work to hold everything together.

Fennel, Lemon and Smoked Paprika Almonds

Savory almond snack

These citrusy, spiced bites make for a ideal match for the refreshing pink grapefruit mocktails detailed further down.

Buckwheat Blinis with Ricotta and Salmon

Festive starter with blinis

A delectable celebration appetizer that can conveniently be modified to serve with a fruity topping for younger guests.

Cardamom-Lime Grapefruit Mocktails

Colorful non-alcoholic drink

These concoctions are a zesty alternative to spirits, but also serve as a wonderful base for a gin-based drink.

Lemon-Infused Juniper Martinis

Classic martini cocktail

Homemade spirit for a particularly festive celebration cocktail, ideal for giving as a present or serving at events.

Tender Lamb with a Zingy Sumac and Onion Salad

Succulent lamb dish

Enjoy the praise of this show-stopping centerpiece – your guests will ever realize how minimal work was involved.

Festive Chocolate Cranberry Tart

Decadent chocolate cranberry tart

In this decadent dessert, puddles of aromatic cranberry sauce are baked into a chocolaty filling for a duo that makes any surfeit of cranberries to excellent purpose.

Richard Harrington
Richard Harrington

Lena is an art curator and writer with a passion for discovering emerging artists and sharing their stories.