🔗 Share this article Countdown to the New Year: A Holiday Spread. When it comes to hosting parties, guests tend to separate into a couple of very distinct camps: those who love doing it, and people that would prefer to do practically something else. Being prepared in advance is essential, and choosing a few delicious dishes to start the festivities will amuse your guests while you work to manage everything. Citrusy Smoked Paprika Almonds with Fennel These tangy, spiced snacks are a perfect match for the refreshing pink grapefruit mocktails listed below. Buckwheat Blinis with Ricotta and Salmon A delicious celebration first course that can readily be adapted to offer with a different garnish for the kids. Cardamom-Lime Grapefruit Mocktails These beverages are a invigorating option to spirits, but additionally make a wonderful mixer for a gin-based drink. Lemon-Infused Juniper Martinis Handcrafted spirit for a particularly festive celebration cocktail, ideal for sharing or pouring at parties. Tender Lamb with a Zingy Sumac and Onion Salad Enjoy the praise of this show-stopping centerpiece – no one will for a moment guess how minimal preparation was needed. Chocolate Tart with Spiced Cranberry In this decadent dessert, puddles of warmly spiced cranberry jam are cooked into a dark chocolate filling for a combination that makes any surfeit of holiday fruit to excellent effect.