Well, it’s almost here. NYE. New Years Day. Time to start planning those menus-well, I suppose that was directed toward all of my fellow last minute, procrastinating friends. For those of you who already have your appetizers to share or menus planned, carry on. I strive to be like you when I grow up. Interweb high fives going your way.
But until that {very far away} day that I plan a menu for a get together weeks in advance, I’ll relish in the game-time-decision-making pressure of what to serve. I kinda like it. It makes me feel edgy. Badass, per say. Man, I am such a risk-taker.
This NYE we will be celebrating at a dear friends house where my guess is we will be treated top notch in the food department, as we always are. I’ll be taking a few things to share so my brain has been rolling today over the possibilities. And I find it only appropriate to fill you in on my favorite Nourished Peach dishes to share. So, without further ado, I present to you, fellow gangsta procrastinators
10 Easy Party Bites Your Guests Will Thank You For
We served these last year for New Years Eve and they will always be a favorite of mine. Simple enough to prepare ahead of time and super fun for serving at a casual gathering where folks can help themselves.
2. Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps
If you’re thinking something light, finger friendly and super fresh these bad boys are always a hit. Set up a little lettuce wrap bar with this awesome chicken and toppings of shredded carrots, cucumber, crunchy wonton strips, some store bought Asian dipping sauces and you’re set.
So if you’re game for those lettuce wraps I just told you about…why don’t you just go ahead and make it an Asian theme and throw this salad into the mix, too. It’s AH-MAZING and you can make it ahead and serve it chilled or at room temp.
4. Red Wine Balsamic Tri Tip Roast
If you’re going for something more elegant and sit down-mealish this one should do it. As fast and as simple as can be and I’m fairly confident your guests will think you had a private chef come in and prep this for you-guaranteed back-pats right here.
Got kids joining in on the party? This one is perfect for both kids and adults alike. Set up a taco bar with options of crispy corn tortillas, flour tortillas and lettuce for wraps. Add fixings that are guaranteed to be kid-friendly (think basics like shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, etc) and something a little more edgy for the adults, or better yet, the daring foodie kiddos (think avocado sauce, a mexican corn relish, sriracha sour cream, etc). Super fun, super festive and super simple.
6. Grilled Chicken, Roasted Tomato and Goat Cheese Flatbreads
For a little fancy shmancy ridiculously flavorful twist, drizzle some balsamic glaze right on top after they bake….I die. If grilling out in the snow doesn’t sound too appealing bake the pizzas in the oven at 400 until the naan crisps up. And for a super quick option, use rotisserie chicken instead of grilled, or swap the chicken all together for roasted or grilled shrimp. Officially drooling.
Speaking of balsamic glaze. Make this. Plans or not. Company or not. Quite honestly, a one-on-one date with a platter of these could be the ticket to all prosperity in 2016. Or at least they’ll make you feel like it when you’re eating them.
Because your other hand thats not holding the beverage needs something to do.
9. Warm Potato Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette
This is just a rock solid side for any type of meal, sit down dinner or a casual buffet. Pairs wonderfully with a grilled steak, seafood, chicken, a burger, truly, anything. And it can sit out for hours.
10. Chocolate Covered Strawberries
These are just simply a treat for everyone involved. As easy as can be to make and loved by all.
So there you have it. I hope it helps some of you with a little last minute-inspiration.
Cheers to you all….enjoy your time with loved ones! I’m looking so forward to sharing some exciting new things in 2016 with you! xo
Hey Melissa,
Chocolate covered strawberries is an amazing idea…specially in this season when strawberries are available in market… and all crave for a chocolaty sweet on a chilly winter night…great option for a friends getogether!
Thanks for sharing the list, most useful one…!!👍
Chicken lettuce wraps sound great. Healthy too.
Thanks for stopping by Johnathan! They’re great for a quick meal!