Countdown to 2026: A New Year's Eve Spread.

When it involves hosting celebrations, guests tend to split into a pair of quite distinct camps: the ones that love the process, and people that would rather to do almost anything else. Being prepared in advance is key, and finding a few delicious dishes to begin the festivities will entertain your guests while you aim to keep the show on the road.

Fennel, Lemon and Smoked Paprika Almonds

Zesty almond snack

These citrusy, spicy snacks prove to be a ideal companion for the bright pink grapefruit mocktails featured further down.

Salmon & Ricotta on Buckwheat Blinis

Elegant starter with blinis

A delicious celebration starter that can conveniently be adapted to offer with a fruity topping for younger guests.

Cardamom-Lime Grapefruit Mocktails

Vibrant non-alcoholic drink

These drinks are a refreshing substitute to alcohol, but additionally make a tasty base for a tequila-based cocktail.

Juniper and Lemon Martinis

Sophisticated martini cocktail

Handcrafted spirit for a special holiday martini, perfect for gifting or pouring at events.

Shredded Lamb Shoulder with Sumac Onion Salad

Slow-cooked lamb dish

Enjoy the glory of this show-stopping feast – your guests will possibly guess how modest effort was involved.

Festive Chocolate Cranberry Tart

Decadent chocolate cranberry tart

In this indulgent dessert, puddles of warmly spiced cranberry jam are baked into a chocolate filling for a duo that puts any surfeit of holiday fruit to excellent effect.

Lisa Moore
Lisa Moore

Liam Hendricks is a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience covering global events and geopolitical trends.