How to create perfect New Year's menu: Tips from сhefs

Choose style

Defining the style of your New Year's evening will help shape the menu, ensuring it looks harmonious on the table. For example, you can choose a theme based on Ukrainian traditions and opt for something unconventional, like stuffed carp or roasted duck with apples.

If you're craving something lighter, a Mediterranean theme is a great choice, with appetizers featuring seafood, olives, and vegetable salads. For plant-based food enthusiasts, you can create a vegetarian menu with mushroom pies and various non-mayo salads.

Tips:

• Use colorful vegetables and fruits to decorate dishes;
• Serve dishes in unusual containers or garnish them with fresh herbs;
• Don’t forget about traditional New Year's dishes, which symbolize the holiday.

Create a balanced menu

Include appetizers (canapés, cheese platters, or light salads), main courses (roast meat, fish, or a vegetarian alternative), side dishes (roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or grain dishes), drinks (choose cocktails or wines that pair well with the food), and desserts (light cakes, fruit salads, or ice cream).

Tips:

• Choose one or two main dishes that will be the centerpiece of the table;
• Classic salads can be served in a new way, or you can make original salads with unusual ingredients.

Consider preparation time

Some dishes, like meat or casseroles, can be prepared in advance, making the holiday day easier. However, appetizers and salads are best prepared just before serving.

Add unexpected accents

Try serving something special to your guests, such as mini Bundt cakes, caramel pudding, or chocolate fondant. These dishes add a festive touch and will be the highlight of the evening. And don’t forget that presentation is half the success - use vibrant plates, candles, or themed decor to create the atmosphere.

Plan ahead

Decide how many people you'll be serving. Learn about your guests' dietary restrictions and favorite dishes. And (perhaps most importantly in today’s realities) set a budget for your groceries.

Don’t overload

Don’t prepare too many dishes so that guests can try everything. Cook small portions, allowing guests to sample more variety.

More tips from experienced chefs:

• Alternate sweet and savory, spicy and mild dishes to diversify the taste experience;
• Add acidity to dishes using citrus fruits or berries;
• Freeze berries, fruits, and herbs in advance;
• Marinate meat and poultry ahead of time;
• Try the dishes beforehand to make any necessary adjustments.

And most importantly - enjoy the cooking process!

Sources: Better Homes & Gardens and Martha Stewart websites.