As the clock strikes midnight and the confetti falls, what better way to ring in the new year than with a feast fit for a celebration? Whether you’re hosting a intimate gathering or a grand bash, these 20 festive New Year’s recipes are sure to impress your guests. From sweet treats like Dark Chocolate Espresso Martini Cake and Champagne Risotto with Wild Mushrooms to savory delights like Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Lemon Aioli and Herb-Crusted Prime Rib with Red Wine Jus, we’ve got you covered.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Lemon Aioli
This elegant appetizer combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the salty, savory goodness of prosciutto and a tangy lemon aioli. Perfect for your next gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 fresh asparagus spears
– 6 slices of prosciutto
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of prosciutto, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Place the wrapped asparagus on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus tender.
6. Meanwhile, mix together mayonnaise and lemon juice in a small bowl.
7. Serve the baked asparagus with lemon aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Brie with Cranberry Compote and Pecans
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this elegant, easy-to-make appetizer featuring creamy brie cheese, sweet-tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, orange juice, cranberries, sugar, and orange zest. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until cranberries have popped and the compote has thickened slightly.
4. Place the brie cheese on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with the cranberry compote, leaving a small border around the cheese.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the cheese and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is softened and the nuts are toasted.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Cheese Crostini
A refreshing and elegant appetizer perfect for any occasion, featuring the rich flavors of smoked salmon and creamy dill cheese on toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 slices of baguette
– Smoked salmon (about 1/4 pound), thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, dill, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
5. Top with a slice of smoked salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Beef Wellington Bites with Horseradish Cream
Elevate your party appetizers with these bite-sized beef Wellingtons, wrapped in flaky puff pastry and served with a tangy horseradish cream. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 pound beef tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Horseradish cream (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together beef strips, olive oil, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 24 squares, each about 3 inches (7.5 cm) per side.
4. Place a spoonful of beef mixture in the center of each square. Fold pastry over filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with horseradish cream and garnished with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sparkling Pomegranate Punch with Citrus
Add a touch of elegance to your next gathering with this refreshing and flavorful punch. Perfect for brunches, baby showers, or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pomegranate juice
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slices of orange, lemon, and lime for garnish
– Fresh mint leaves or sprigs for added flavor and visual appeal (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pomegranate juice, orange juice, and simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the lemon-lime soda and stir gently to avoid foaming.
3. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Just before serving, garnish with slices of citrus fruits and fresh mint leaves (if using).
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Roasted Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe combines the simplicity of mashed potatoes with the richness of roasted garlic and the brightness of fresh herbs, creating a flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 3-4 large potatoes
• 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, chicken broth, and roasted garlic.
4. Stir in chopped rosemary and season to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Herb-Crusted Prime Rib with Red Wine Jus
Elevate your special occasion dinner with this mouthwatering prime rib recipe, featuring a fragrant herb crust and rich red wine jus. Perfect for a holiday gathering or romantic evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-7 pound) prime rib roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Mix herb crust ingredients in a small bowl. Rub all over the prime rib, making sure to coat evenly.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear prime rib for 2 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer prime rib to a roasting pan and roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes. Strain red wine jus and serve with the roasted prime rib.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Lobster Thermidor with Gruyère Cheese
Elevate your culinary experience with this decadent Lobster Thermidor recipe, featuring the rich flavors of Gruyère cheese. This indulgent dish is perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add lobster meat, white wine, heavy cream, Gruyère cheese, mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook until lobster is opaque, about 5 minutes.
4. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Truffle Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the earthy flavor of truffles and a satisfying crunch from crispy breadcrumbs. This rich and creamy dish is perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Remove from heat and stir in truffle oil. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well.
7. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs and drizzle with melted butter.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your vegetable game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts with the rich flavor of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. While the sprouts are roasting, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan.
5. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly, until glaze thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
6. Remove Brussels sprouts from oven and toss with balsamic glaze.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Champagne Risotto with Wild Mushrooms
Elevate your risotto game with this luxurious twist featuring champagne and wild mushrooms. This creamy, bubbly dish is perfect for a special occasion or romantic evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle and cremini), cleaned and sliced
– 1/4 cup champagne or sparkling wine
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add sliced mushrooms and stir to combine.
5. Stir in champagne and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Dark Chocolate Espresso Martini Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this indulgent cake that combines the deep flavors of dark chocolate and espresso in a moist and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
5. Add espresso and melted chocolate to the wet ingredients; whisk until combined.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
These bite-sized crab cakes are packed with flavor and perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. The creamy remoulade sauce adds a tangy and rich complement to the crispy crab.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Remoulade Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, egg, and mayonnaise. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Divide mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve with mini crab cakes.
Pomegranate-Glazed Lamb Chops with Mint
This sweet and savory recipe is perfect for a special occasion or dinner party. The combination of tender lamb chops, tangy pomegranate glaze, and fresh mint creates a truly unforgettable flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, honey, and garlic.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear lamb chops for 1-2 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until lamb reaches desired doneness.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped mint leaves. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets: Sweet and savory, these bite-sized treats are perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into small squares (about 3 inches per side).
4. Place a spoonful of caramelized onions in the center of each square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges. Top with crumbled goat cheese.
5. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg and fold squares into triangles or shapes to enclose filling.
6. Place tartlets on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including caramelizing onions)
Spiced Mulled Wine with Orange and Cinnamon
Warm Up with Spiced Mulled Wine with Orange and Cinnamon
As the weather cools down, a glass of spiced mulled wine can be just what you need to cozy up with friends and family. This recipe combines the flavors of orange and cinnamon to create a deliciously spicy and citrusy drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 oranges, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the sliced oranges, cinnamon sticks, brown sugar, water, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and salt.
2. Add the bottle of red wine to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has reached your desired level of spiciness.
5. Strain the mulled wine into individual cups or mugs.
6. Serve warm, garnished with a slice of orange if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
A sweet and tangy salad that combines the earthy flavor of roasted beets with the creaminess of goat cheese, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and dice into 1/2-inch pieces.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Add roasted beets, goat cheese, parsley, and balsamic vinegar to the bowl; toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries with Gold Dust
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries, the richness of chocolate, and the glamour of edible gold dust.
Ingredients:
– 12 fresh strawberries
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon edible gold dust (available at most baking supply stores)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips and butter in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate mixture, coating about 3/4 of the fruit.
4. Place the dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle edible gold dust over the chocolate-covered strawberries.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None required!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
This classic Italian dish is a flavorful and easy-to-make seafood delight. Savor the taste of succulent shrimp, tender linguine, and aromatic garlic butter in this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces linguine pasta
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Reduce heat to low. Add white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Simmer for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked linguine, reserved pasta water, and garlic butter mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
New Year’s Eve Champagne Cupcakes
Ring in the new year with these bubbly cupcakes that combine the sweetness of vanilla cake with the effervescence of champagne. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a New Year’s Eve celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup champagne or sparkling wine
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Stir in champagne.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Ring in the new year with these 20 festive recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From savory dishes like Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus and Herb-Crusted Prime Rib, to sweet treats like Dark Chocolate Espresso Martini Cake and Champagne Cupcakes, there’s something for everyone. These elegant and delicious recipes feature ingredients like lobster, truffle, and goat cheese, and are perfect for a New Year’s Eve celebration. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to add some sparkle to your evening, these recipes will help make your night unforgettable.
