With the holidays quickly approaching, it is nearly impossible to not be getting excited for the start of 2021. The last big event of the year is, of course, New Year’s Eve, when we’re all ready to bring in a new beginning, a bright perspective, and positive change. There are many ways to celebrate the last night of the year, and let’s be real, none of them is complete without food.
If you are so busy decorating the house and shopping for gifts that you don’t have time to even think about which foods you want to serve at (or take to) a party on New Year’s Eve, consider making at least one of these fabulous dishes that are perfect for an end-of-the-year celebration.
Buttermilk Popcorn Chicken
I don’t know about you, but I’ve never met a person who doesn’t like fried chicken. That’s why these little bite-sized tidbits are the perfect finger food for ringing in the new year. They are the perfect size for popping into your mouth. Since they are so small, they’re easily portable and allow you to leave lots of room for other holiday foods on the plate and in the tummy. They’re great on their own and also perfect for dunking into a dipping sauce. You can even set up an entire trendy dipping station with a variety of sauces for your guests to taste test! Get the Recipe >
Raspberry Trifle
If you are looking for a special dessert to share, this delectable treat fits the bill. Trifles are perfect for a buffet or dessert table since they always look impressive in a tall trifle dish. However, this one provides a spectacular taste sensation as well. The fresh raspberries and pound cake provide beautiful splashes of color amidst the snow-like custard. Just provide some bowls and a big spoon and let your guests go to town. Get the Recipe >
Champagne Truffles
What’s a New Year’s Eve celebration without champagne? The start of a new year is exciting, after all! Instead of (or as well as) toasting with a glass of bubbly this year, serve these heavenly champagne truffles. Both champagne and truffles taste of luxury and bliss and are perfect for creating a feeling of joy and prosperity for you and your guests. The decadent dark chocolate is so good you’ll want to kiss one of these at the stroke of midnight more than anybody else! Get the Recipe >
Spinach and Cheese Dip
Dips are so popular at parties for three reasons: they’re easy, they’re trendy, and they’re fun. This year, ditch the store-bought tub of French onion or spinach dip and opt for this made-from-scratch spread instead. This bubbling beauty combines spinach and cheese to give the taste buds a pleasant surprise. But wait…there’s more! We recommend going a little crazy, living on the edge, and yes, topping it with some crisp pancetta. If you aren’t into pancetta, simply swap it out for bacon instead (everybody loves bacon). The coup de grace of this dip is that it is served in a hollowed-out bread bowl. It almost looks too good to eat. But, fear not, put out some diced bread cubes, cheese snacks, and raw veggies, and it will be the talk of the table. Get the Recipe >
Mini Chicken Lettuce Wraps
As a good hostess, it’s always wise to have something that everyone on the guest list can appreciate. If you are someone who desires some lighter fare to snack on, lettuce wraps are the perfect solution. Sometimes it’s tough to sit down and eat if you are running around socializing, doing a relay race between the dance floor and the kitchen, and tidying up along the way, especially on a heavy stomach. These lettuce wraps are a healthful option that still pack a big punch of flavor with their chicken, cilantro, mango, and lime flavor combination. They are a great size to carry in your hand while table hopping and are ideal for sneaking in bites before the next song starts! Get the Recipe >
Cheese Balls
Cheese balls are a tried and true New Year’s Eve classic. There are so many varieties that you are certain to find something to fit a variety of tastes, whether they be for family, a few friends, or a special someone. You can go ultra-traditional and serve a cheddar ball covered in nuts, choose something a bit more exotic such as mini cheese balls in phyllo dough, or even go to the sweeter side with a cannoli cheese ball. Whichever way you choose to go, these round spheres of rich goodness are sure to leave everyone smiling.
Food is an integral part of any celebration so see the old year out with class and welcome the new year in with style. Whether it be for a swanky cocktail soiree or a casual get-together, don’t forget to bring some zesty gourmet cheese snacks from John Wm. Macy’s because the perfect crunch is the perfect start to a new year. Get the Recipe >
