Countdown to the Next Year: The Holiday Spread.

When it comes to hosting parties, people tend to divide into a pair of rather distinct groups: people that love doing it, and the ones that would choose to do almost anything else. Being prepared early is essential, and selecting a few delicious dishes to begin the evening will amuse your attendees while you aim to hold everything together.

Spicy Almonds with Fennel, Lemon & Paprika

Spicy almond snack

These zesty, spicy bites are a perfect pairing for the vibrant pink grapefruit mocktails detailed next.

Buckwheat Blinis with Ricotta and Salmon

Festive starter with blinis

A delicious celebration starter that can readily be adapted to offer with a sweet topping for the kids.

Cardamom-Lime Grapefruit Mocktails

Vibrant non-alcoholic drink

These beverages are a refreshing alternative to booze, but furthermore create a delicious base for a gin-based cocktail.

Lemon-Infused Juniper Martinis

Homemade martini cocktail

Home-infused spirit for a particularly festive celebration cocktail, great for gifting or serving at parties.

Slow-Cooked Shredded Lamb Shoulder with Red Onion Sumac Salad

Succulent lamb dish

Revel in the praise of this show-stopping spread – everyone will for a moment realize how minimal preparation was needed.

Chocolate Tart with Spiced Cranberry

Festive chocolate cranberry tart

In this indulgent dessert, puddles of aromatic cranberry jam are cooked into a chocolaty frangipane for a duo that puts any abundance of holiday fruit to good effect.

Brenda Bowen
Brenda Bowen

A seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience covering European politics and cultural shifts, based in Stockholm.