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As the end of the year approaches, many people are already planning for the celebration of New Year’s Eve. Tradition dictates that on this special night, one should dress up, gather with friends and family, and toast the arrival of the new year. However, with the ongoing pandemic, the traditional way of celebrating has become difficult if not impossible. Moreover, some people wish to do something different from the usual New Year’s celebration. One way to do this is by changing the menu and trying out new dishes. In this article, we will explore some alternative dishes one can consider for a New Year’s Eve celebration.
1. Appetizers
Appetizers are an excellent way to kick off the celebration. Finger foods are convenient and are easy to prepare. Cheese boards are a crowd-pleaser. Select different types of cheese such as Parmesan, aged cheddar, or brie. Serve it with grapes, crackers, or bread. Charcuterie boards, on the other hand, can also be equally appealing. Add prosciutto, salami, or chorizo to the mix. The board’s beauty is in the way it is arranged – try arranging it with some form of symmetry.
2. Mains
Many people opt for a roasted turkey as the main dish for New Year’s Eve. However, there are various alternatives that the whole family can enjoy. One option is beef Wellington. It is a dish consisting of beef that is filleted, coated with pâté, wrapped in pastry and baked. Another option is lamb shank. It is a popular dish where lamb is cooked slowly in a tomato-based broth until it falls off the bone. It can be served with mashed potatoes or rice.
3. Sides
Incorporating sides that are different from the usual is a great way to elevate the menu. Brussels sprouts, for example, can be roasted with bacon, maple syrup, and chili flakes. Yukon gold potatoes can be boiled and tossed with garlic butter and parsley. Grilled vegetables are also a great side dish option. Use a combination of eggplants, zucchinis, and bell peppers. Drizzle them with olive oil and balsamic vinegar and toss them onto the grill.
4. Desserts
No celebration is complete without dessert. Classic choices such as pies and cakes are great options. However, there are several desserts that are perfect for the holiday season, such as gingerbread and eggnog. Gingerbread cookies can be shaped into festive figures and served after dinner. Eggnog, on the other hand, can be served as a dessert drink. For an unusual twist, eggnog can be made into an ice cream parfait.
5. Cocktails
New Year’s Eve is synonymous with champagne, but it is not the only drink to consider. Switch things up by serving a winter cocktail. Spiked cider is a great option, especially if you’re celebrating in cold weather. It is made using apple cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, and rum or brandy. Another winter favorite is mulled wine. It can be made with red wine, orange zest, cinnamon, cloves, and brandy.
Conclusion
Planning an alternative New Year’s Eve celebration can be fun. Trying out new dishes can be a conversation starter and a way to bond with family and friends. Selecting appetizers, mains, sides, and desserts that are not typically served can set the stage for a unique holiday gathering. Lastly, serving winter cocktails can add to the theme of the night. Regardless of the menu, what is important is to celebrate new beginnings despite the challenges we’ve faced this year. Cheers to a better year ahead!
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