Four New Year’s Eve Menus from Food & Wine

I admit that I love to pick ideas from here and there when I plan a special dinner or party, but sometimes, life is just too insane and my creative juices are on hold.  I want to look at a menu and say, “That one”.

If you are in the midst of planning your New Year’s Eve bash, all inspiration is gone or at the last minute you have volunteered your home to be the go to place to ring in 2008, Food & Wine has 4 great menu options.

You can have your choice of a small gathering of 8 to a knock-out party of 40 of your friends.  Each menu has a variety of options and wine pairings.

Serves 8: Luxe New Year’s Eve Dinner
End the year on a luxurious note with velvety lobster bisque, roast beef tenderloin with Madeira and prunes, and moist white chocolate cake—a F&W staff favorite.

Serves 12: New Year’s Dinner for 12
Dinner guests will revel in grilled oysters casino, spicy glazed ham and five delicious side dishes ranging from champagne-roasted cauliflower to maple whipped sweet potatoes.

Serves 20: Nibbles for a Crowd
This is the perfect array of light bites for a night of celebrating, including Italian rice balls, mini smoked-salmon sandwiches, and crunchy spiced pecans.

Serves 40: Countdown Party for 40
Entertain a crowd with this impressive spread of finger foods, such as five-spice chicken salad in wonton shells, hearty samosas, and mini sandwiches with dates, goat cheese and pancetta.