Celebrate with the perfect blend of Southern charm and coastal flavors with these irresistible New Year's Eve dinner recipes. From mouthwatering seafood to classic Lowcountry dishes, elevate your celebration with these easy yet impressive ideas!
Ring in the new year with an impressive Lowcountry inspired dinner that's perfect for a cozy evening at home or a festive New Year's Eve party. This menu features a delightful selection of seafood and Southern favorites, sure to dazzle your taste buds and impress your guests.
From easy-to-prepare dishes to show-stopping entrees, these New Year's Eve dinner recipe ideas are guaranteed to make your celebration memorable.
New Year's Eve Dinner Ideas
Try these easy recipes for an epic New Year's Eve dinner that not only tastes fantastic but also has a touch of elegance and festivity. This menu is seafood meets Lowcountry favorites for a coastal flair.
Here's a selection of recipes that make for a memorable evening, from appetizers to desserts. Many of these recipes also work for New Year's Day brunch.
Appetizers & Starters
Start the evening off right with a few show stopping appetizers.
- Shrimp Deviled Eggs: This seafood twist on the old school hors d'ouvre is the perfect easy dish for a make-ahead appetizer. These classic bites made with hard-boiled eggs stuffed with a luscious shrimp filling are always a good idea.
- Oysters Rockefeller: Impress your guests with its rich and creamy topping over fresh oysters. The combination of spinach and breadcrumbs creates a delightful texture that pairs well with a festive gathering. If you're interested in trying it out, this easy Oysters Rockefeller recipe is always a favorite.
- Baked Brie: A perfect New Year's Eve appetizer that is so simple to make . Serve it baked with pepper jam or wrap it in buttery puff pastry and bake until golden brown.
Main Course
For the main event, nothing beats the luxury of seafood. All of these main dishes are super simple to put together so you can spend your time enjoying the last meal of the year.
- Lobster Tails: Thanks to the air fryer, preparing lobster can be both simple and absolutely delicious. This Air Fryer Lobster Tails With Garlic Butter Sauce recipe has step-by-step instructions that make cooking lobster a breeze.
- Salmon: This super easy sheet pan Mustard Baked Salmon is a delicious dish featuring tangy mustard and tender salmon, served with perfectly roasted asparagus.
- Seafood Stew: This Cioppino is a hearty stew using a dump recipe that can be made with frozen seafood and some pantry ingredients.
Side Dishes
These Lowcountry inspired sides are perfect with seafood.
- Carolina Gold Rice: My number one pick is Carolina Gold rice, notably the best rice I've ever tasted. This Southern favorite has an incredible unique flavor that stands out on it's own or dressed up with a variety of flavors. This easy recipe is cooked in an Instant Pot with chicken stock and finished with butter. You will love this Carolina Gold rice recipe!
- Collard Greens:Hearty greens complement the rice. Collard greens, braised until they reach a tender and silky texture are a Southern tradition. This traditional dish is a mouthwatering addition to any plate, offering a comforting and flavorful side that completes the meal. This Southern Collard Greens recipe is authentic and perfectly spiced.
- Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is the perfect complement to this holiday meal. Top it with homemade honey butter, or go savory with herbs, garlic and Parmesan cheese.
Desserts
I like to round off the New Year's dinner with something sweet. My choice usually includes a selection so guests can choose based on their preference.
- Chocolate Pots de Crème: For those who crave something chocolaty, these easy and decadent Chocolate Pots de Crème made with coconut milk are my go-to. They are rich, smooth, and make for an indulgent finale to the year's last supper.
- Sweet Cream Cheese Dip: This Easy Pumpkin Pie Dip With Cream Cheese is a hit even after the fall season and adds a light, creamy end to the meal.
- Serve with a selection of cookies, crackers, sliced apples and fresh berries.
New Year's Eve Drinks
I always find toasting to the New Year is more memorable with a signature cocktail or a sparkling mocktail in hand. Whether you're looking for the effervescent tickle of a champagne mix or the rich taste of a coffee treat, there's a drink to clink that suits everyone's palate.
Cocktail Recipes
For my New Year's celebration, French Martinis are a must-have. I mix up this fruity cocktail with a lush combination of vodka, pineapple, and the distinctive taste of Chambord. The elegance of a French Martini sets the tone for an indulgent evening.
When the clock approaches midnight, I love raising a glass filled with a French 76 Champagne Cocktail. It's a bubbly delight that pairs perfectly with anticipation for the year to come. This cocktail, made with vodka, fresh lemon juice and simple syrup topped with champagne, strikes a balance between tradition and celebration.
A Pomegranate Mimosa Champagne Cocktail is my choice for adding a pop of color and flavor. Mixing pomegranate juice and sparkling wine brings a festive twist to the classic mimosa.
For a tropical twist to the evening, shake up a Coconut Margarita made with coconut tequila and a splash of pineapple. It will transport you to a beach party under fireworks.
Lastly, add an Espresso Martini to serve with dessert and keep you going until midnight.
And of course, don't forget champagne for your New Year's toast and a selection of white and red wine for those who prefer it.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
For your friends who prefer non-alcoholic options, crafting a mocktail that's just as exciting as its alcoholic counterpart is simple. Еnhance sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice and a twist of lime for an elegant and refreshing drink.
Or, use a mix of fresh fruit juices like apple, orange, and pomegranate to create a layered drink that not only tastes wonderful but also looks beautiful in a champagne flute.
Make a simple festive holiday punch with cranberry juice, sparkling apple cider and lots of seasonal sweet fruit. Try sliced oranges, red fruits like pomegranate arils, cherries and cranberries for a festive touch.
Happy New Year!
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