New Year's Party Treats

Posted by Jill Harris Dec 30, 2007

By the time New Year's rolls around, I'm usually stuffed to the gills and ready to go back to my normal, healthier way of eating. There is one final push, however, in the form of the traditional New Year's party. Usually, this means copious cocktails, wine, and nibbles - the kind that are small enough to give the illusion you're not eating much at all. Then, 30 minutes later, you're stuffed and realize you overate again.

There are ways to do New Year's a little bit healthier, like serving dips like salsa (fat free, low-calorie) instead of something like chipotle mayonnaise, which is stellar (by the way) on Turnip and Sweet Potato Fries.

Speaking of vegetables, it's a good idea to load up on veg-heavy dishes at the beginning of the night when guests are hungriest. Serve veggies and dip, hummus, or salads to start. Then, bring out the big guns like Baked Tofu Nuggets, Buffalo Tofu, Easy Holiday Crostini and Seven Layer Dip with Chips. Position dishes strategically around the room to keep people moving, instead of food shovelling.

If you're looking for coordinating party menus, look no farther than Greek Appetizers, Vegetarian Antipasto, or the meal-in-a-snack Vegetarian Nachos.

As far as beverages go, focus on flavour instead of just downing glass after glass of champagne. Try Vegan Hot Cocoa or read more about Vegetarian Food and Wine Pairing and Choosing a Vegetarian Wine.

Next month, we'll resolve to eat better, but for now - enjoy the season. Cheers!