🔗 Share this article Countdown to the New Year: The Holiday Menu. When it is about organizing gatherings, guests usually split into a pair of quite distinct camps: those who love it, and people that would choose to do practically something else. Being ready early is essential, and selecting a few delicious recipes to kick off the festivities will amuse your visitors while you try to manage everything. Citrusy Smoked Paprika Almonds with Fennel These tangy, flavorful snacks make for a ideal pairing for the bright pink grapefruit mocktails featured further down. Salmon & Ricotta on Buckwheat Blinis A delicious festive starter that can conveniently be altered to serve with a fruity spread for younger guests. Cardamom-Lime Grapefruit Mocktails These beverages are a refreshing alternative to spirits, but additionally make a wonderful base for a tequila-based beverage. Festive Martinis with Juniper & Lemon Home-infused spirit for a special festive martini, great for giving as a present or offering at parties. Slow-Cooked Shredded Lamb Shoulder with Red Onion Sumac Salad Bask in the admiration of this stunning feast – no one will for a moment guess how modest work was required. Chocolate Tart with Spiced Cranberry In this rich dessert, puddles of aromatic cranberry jam are cooked into a dark chocolate base for a duo that uses any surfeit of cranberries to delicious purpose.