🔗 Share this article Final Hours to the Next Year: The Festive Menu. When it comes to organizing celebrations, guests tend to separate into a couple of very separate categories: those who love doing it, and those who would prefer to do almost another thing. Getting ready early is key, and choosing a few tasty dishes to kick off the evening will entertain your visitors while you work to hold everything together. Citrusy Smoked Paprika Almonds with Fennel These tangy, flavorful nibbles are a ideal pairing for the vibrant pink grapefruit mocktails listed next. Buckwheat Blinis with Ricotta and Salmon A scrumptious celebration appetizer that can conveniently be modified to serve with a different garnish for children. Refreshing Grapefruit Mocktails with Cardamom & Lime These concoctions are a refreshing substitute to spirits, but also make a wonderful base for a tequila-based drink. Festive Martinis with Juniper & Lemon Homemade gin for a special holiday martini, great for gifting or pouring at events. Shredded Lamb Shoulder with Sumac Onion Salad Bask in the glory of this impressive centerpiece – no one will ever suspect how modest work was required. Festive Chocolate Cranberry Tart In this rich finale, swirls of spiced cranberry compote are nestled into a dark chocolate filling for a combination that makes any abundance of cranberries to delicious effect.