🔗 Share this article Final Hours to the New Year: Your Holiday Spread. When it comes to hosting gatherings, people usually separate into a couple of quite distinct camps: those who adore the process, and those who would rather to do almost something else. Staying prepared ahead of time is key, and finding a few delicious recipes to start the evening will delight your attendees while you work to keep the show on the road. Fennel, Lemon and Smoked Paprika Almonds These tangy, flavorful snacks are a perfect match for the refreshing pink grapefruit mocktails detailed next. Buckwheat Blinis with Ricotta and Salmon A scrumptious celebration starter that can easily be modified to serve with a different spread for the kids. Cardamom-Lime Grapefruit Mocktails These drinks are a zesty option to spirits, but also make a wonderful ingredient for a gin-based drink. Juniper and Lemon Martinis Homemade spirit for a unique holiday drink, perfect for gifting or pouring at parties. Slow-Cooked Shredded Lamb Shoulder with Red Onion Sumac Salad Bask in the glory of this impressive centerpiece – no one will ever guess how modest effort was needed. Festive Chocolate Cranberry Tart In this decadent dessert, swirls of spiced cranberry sauce are nestled into a dark chocolate frangipane for a combination that puts any surfeit of cranberries to good use.