Empty plates and smiling guests prove the telltale signs of a good party. If folks request recipes, the host feels rewarded. This New Year’s Eve, keep things casual, but delicious, with a variety of simple-to-make appetizers and snacks. Make sure each offering features something indulgent and worthy of ushering in the New Year.
First, our new infatuation: blue cheese potato chips inspired by a dish served at the Cap City Diner in Ohio. There, they top hearty potato chips with blue cheese, Alfredo sauce and chives. So ingenuous, yet so memorable. At home, our version swaps bottled blue cheese salad dressing for the homemade Alfredo sauce. A drizzle of hot red pepper sauce adds a kick.
Gougeres, little puffs made from choux paste (a cooked flour and egg dough), delight everyone — even the cook. The dough welcomes a generous portion of chopped ham and a specialty cheese. For the holiday, I am partial to Point Reyes Toma Truffle cheese, but shredded Gruyere or Gouda and a dash of truffle oil can be substituted. Bake the puffs in advance and pop them in the oven to recrisp before serving.
Sliders of caviar surely means that 2023 will be welcomed by all. Look for small slider buns with a touch of sweetness such as Martin’s Potato Rolls or King’s Hawaiian original sweet rolls. Toast the rolls and make the smoked salmon spread in advance. Then assemble and serve when the guests arrive.
Round out the appetizer menu with bowls of interesting crackers, seasoned olives and nuts. Arrange assorted cheeses and small bunches of grapes on a large cutting board. If the crowd gets large, I add a store-bought veggie tray with hummus and a platter of roasted meatballs (purchased uncooked from the local butcher) with a barbecue sauce for dipping. For sweet fans, set out specialty chocolates or macarons from the local bakery.
Break out the sparkling wine — it’s always welcome. This year, we plan to serve a variety of ciders and non-alcoholic beers too.
Blue Cheese Potato Chips
Makes 4 to 6 servings
