25+ Festive Recipes for a Memorable New Year’s Lunch

1 week agoLast Updated: December 9, 2024

15 minutes read

As we bid farewell to the past year and welcome the excitement of a fresh start, New Year’s celebrations often center around delicious meals shared with loved ones.

A thoughtfully prepared New Year’s lunch is the perfect way to set a celebratory tone and keep the festive spirit alive.

From light and refreshing dishes to indulgent crowd-pleasers, the options are endless.

Whether you’re hosting a grand gathering or enjoying a quiet day with family, having a repertoire of amazing lunch recipes ensures everyone feels the joy of the occasion.

In this article, we’ve curated 25+ New Year’s lunch recipes that cover a variety of tastes and preferences.

From elegant mains and vibrant salads to comforting pastas and globally-inspired plates, these dishes will help you kick off the New Year in style.

Let’s make the first meal of the year one to remember!

25+ Festive Recipes for a Memorable New Year’s Lunch

A New Year’s lunch is more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to start the year with delicious food, laughter, and cherished moments with loved ones.

Whether you opt for classic recipes or decide to try something adventurous, the effort put into your meal will be the highlight of your day.

The dishes in this collection are designed to bring people together, cater to diverse palates, and make your celebration extra special.

As you savor the flavors and enjoy the company, remember that the best part of any New Year’s meal is the love and joy shared around the table.

Here’s to a year filled with happiness, success, and plenty of amazing recipes to try. Cheers to a fantastic start with these 25+ New Year’s lunch recipes!

Citrus Herb Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables

This Citrus Herb Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables is a wholesome, comforting dish perfect for a New Year’s lunch. The zesty flavors from fresh citrus paired with fragrant herbs infuse the chicken, while the caramelized root vegetables create a symphony of textures. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave everyone craving more!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)

2 oranges, halved
1 lemon, halved
4 cloves garlic, smashed

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Vegetables:

3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

2 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks
1 sweet potato, diced
1 large red onion, quartered

2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Pat the chicken dry and season the cavity with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with halved oranges, lemon, and garlic cloves.
Rub olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
In a large roasting pan, toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them around the chicken.

Roast in the oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables.

This dish brings warmth and a sense of celebration to your New Year’s table. The juicy, flavorful chicken combined with the rustic, caramelized vegetables is a classic combination that never fails to please. It’s a recipe that feels like a gift of comfort and joy to start the year right.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto with Truffle Oil

Creamy Mushroom Risotto with Truffle Oil is an elegant and indulgent choice for New Year’s lunch. This dish’s velvety texture, earthy mushroom flavor, and aromatic hint of truffle oil make it a showstopper. It’s the perfect meal to elevate the start of a brand-new year.

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups Arborio rice
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup white mushrooms, sliced
½ cup dry white wine
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon truffle oil

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
Stir in the mushrooms and sauté until tender.
Add the Arborio rice and stir for 1-2 minutes, coating it in the oil.

Pour in the white wine and cook until it has mostly evaporated.
Add warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently, until the liquid is absorbed. Repeat until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente.
Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with truffle oil before serving.

This risotto is a celebration in a bowl, blending creamy textures and rich, savory flavors. The truffle oil provides a luxurious touch, making it a sophisticated option for New Year’s lunch. It’s the kind of dish that feels decadent yet comforting—perfect for welcoming the year ahead.

Honey-Glazed Salmon with Quinoa Salad

Honey-Glazed Salmon with Quinoa Salad is a vibrant and health-conscious choice for New Year’s lunch. The sweet-savory glaze on the salmon perfectly complements the fresh, zesty quinoa salad. This recipe is a refreshing way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful start to the year.

Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Quinoa Salad:

1 cup cooked quinoa
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

½ cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Whisk together honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture onto the salmon fillets.
Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.

In a bowl, combine quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve the salmon alongside the quinoa salad.

This dish is a balanced blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a celebratory lunch. The honey-glazed salmon adds a touch of sweetness to the fresh, citrusy quinoa salad. Together, they create a light yet satisfying meal to kick off the New Year with health and happiness.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells is a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dish perfect for New Year’s lunch. The rich ricotta filling, combined with fresh spinach and tangy marinara sauce, creates a comforting meal that’s as festive as it is flavorful.

Ingredients:

20 jumbo pasta shells
1 ½ cups ricotta cheese

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, spinach, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture and place them in a baking dish.
Pour marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

This dish is comfort food at its best, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with the robust flavor of marinara sauce. It’s an ideal way to gather friends and family around the table to celebrate the first day of the year with warmth and joy.

Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp with Couscous Salad

Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp with Couscous Salad is a light, zesty meal perfect for a refreshing New Year’s lunch. The grilled shrimp’s citrusy marinade pairs beautifully with the fluffy couscous salad, creating a dish that’s both vibrant and satisfying.

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, juiced

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Couscous Salad:

1 cup cooked couscous
½ cup diced cucumbers

½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and marinate for 15 minutes.
Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
In another bowl, mix cooked couscous, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Serve the grilled shrimp over the couscous salad.

This recipe is a feast for the senses with its bright, fresh flavors and light, healthy ingredients. The combination of citrus-marinated shrimp and herbaceous couscous salad brings a refreshing twist to your New Year’s lunch, leaving everyone satisfied and energized for the year ahead.

Braised Beef Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Braised Beef Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes is a rich and decadent dish that’s perfect for celebrating the New Year in style. The tender, flavorful beef paired with creamy garlic-infused potatoes creates a luxurious meal that’s perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients:

For the Short Ribs:

4 lbs bone-in beef short ribs
Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth

1 cup red wine (optional)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 sprigs fresh thyme

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 cloves garlic

½ cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven and sear the ribs on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened. Stir in tomato paste, then add beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Return the short ribs to the pot.

Cover and braise in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are fork-tender.
Meanwhile, boil the potatoes and garlic in salted water until soft. Drain and mash with heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper.
Serve the short ribs over the mashed potatoes, spooning the braising liquid on top.

This dish is the epitome of indulgence, offering melt-in-your-mouth beef and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s perfect for creating a cozy, celebratory atmosphere at your New Year’s lunch table. Your guests will remember this meal as a highlight of the year!

Caprese Chicken with Balsamic Glaze

Caprese Chicken with Balsamic Glaze is a light and flavorful dish perfect for starting the New Year. This Italian-inspired recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all tied together with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slices fresh mozzarella

2 large tomatoes, sliced
Fresh basil leaves
½ cup balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce balsamic vinegar and honey over low heat until thickened.

Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella and tomato. Cover and cook on low until the cheese melts.
Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the chicken and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad.

This Caprese Chicken is a delicious combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making it a standout dish for New Year’s lunch. The balsamic glaze elevates the dish to gourmet status, ensuring your celebration is both elegant and satisfying.

Butternut Squash and Sage Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce

Butternut Squash and Sage Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce is a sophisticated and heartwarming dish, perfect for ringing in the New Year. The sweet, nutty flavors of the squash paired with aromatic sage and the richness of the brown butter create an unforgettable meal.

Ingredients:

12 oz store-bought or homemade butternut squash ravioli
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 fresh sage leaves
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook ravioli according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, cooking until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma.
Add sage leaves to the butter and cook for 1-2 minutes until crisp.
Toss the cooked ravioli in the brown butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
Plate the ravioli, drizzle with additional brown butter, and garnish with Parmesan cheese.

This ravioli dish combines simple ingredients to create a luxurious and flavorful meal. The brown butter sauce adds depth and richness, while the sage brings a comforting aroma. It’s a recipe that feels both celebratory and indulgent—ideal for the New Year.

Loaded Sweet Potato Skins with Spicy Chickpeas

Loaded Sweet Potato Skins with Spicy Chickpeas is a vibrant, vegetarian-friendly dish that’s hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor. This creative recipe combines crispy sweet potato skins with a zesty chickpea topping, making it a delightful addition to your New Year’s lunch spread.

Ingredients:

4 medium sweet potatoes
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and bake for 40-50 minutes until soft. Cool slightly.
Slice the sweet potatoes in half and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer inside the skin. Reserve the flesh for another use.
Brush the skins with olive oil and bake for 10 minutes until crisp.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chickpeas with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until slightly crispy.
Fill the sweet potato skins with chickpeas and top with cheddar cheese, if desired. Bake for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Garnish with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream and sprinkle with cilantro before serving.

These Loaded Sweet Potato Skins are a fun, flavorful way to enjoy a satisfying lunch. The spicy chickpeas add a delightful kick, while the creamy yogurt topping balances the dish beautifully. It’s a creative and nourishing choice to start the year on a high note!

Honey Glazed Salmon with Citrus Salad

Honey Glazed Salmon with Citrus Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s both healthy and flavorful. The sweet and tangy glaze enhances the richness of the salmon, while the bright citrus salad adds a burst of freshness, making it a perfect centerpiece for your New Year’s lunch.

Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Citrus Salad:

2 oranges, peeled and segmented
1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
1 cup baby arugula
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the salmon fillets.
Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky.
Toss arugula, citrus segments, olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a bowl to prepare the salad.
Serve the salmon alongside the citrus salad for a beautifully balanced meal.

This dish brings together the natural sweetness of honey, the savory richness of salmon, and the bright flavors of citrus for a meal that feels indulgent yet light. It’s a beautiful way to welcome the New Year with vibrant colors and tastes.

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Crepes

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Crepes offer a decadent and elegant New Year’s lunch. The tender crepes, filled with a luscious chicken and mushroom mixture, create a gourmet meal that’s perfect for celebrating the day with sophistication and comfort.

Ingredients:

For the Crepes:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons melted butter
Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 garlic clove, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Whisk flour, eggs, milk, butter, and salt until smooth. Let the batter rest for 15 minutes.
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat, pour in a small amount of batter, and swirl to coat the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side. Repeat with the remaining batter.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter. Sauté mushrooms and garlic until softened. Add chicken, cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper, cooking until thickened.
Fill each crepe with the chicken and mushroom mixture, roll, and serve warm.

These creamy chicken and mushroom crepes are indulgent yet light, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. They are a fantastic choice for a special New Year’s lunch, leaving your guests impressed and satisfied.

Greek Mezze Platter with Grilled Lamb Chops

A Greek Mezze Platter with Grilled Lamb Chops offers a Mediterranean-inspired feast that’s perfect for sharing. The combination of tender, herb-marinated lamb and a variety of fresh dips, olives, and pita makes for a vibrant and interactive lunch.

Ingredients:

For the Lamb Chops:

8 lamb chops
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mezze Platter:

1 cup hummus
1 cup tzatziki sauce
1 cup tabbouleh
1 cup assorted olives
1 cup grape tomatoes
1 cup sliced cucumbers
4 pita breads, sliced

Instructions:

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Marinate the lamb chops for 30 minutes.
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the lamb chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
Arrange the mezze platter with hummus, tzatziki, tabbouleh, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, and pita slices.
Serve the grilled lamb chops alongside the platter.

This Greek Mezze Platter with Grilled Lamb Chops is a flavorful and versatile option for New Year’s lunch. The variety of dips and sides encourages sharing and conversation, making it a perfect meal for celebrating the start of the year with loved ones.

Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Sauce

Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Sauce is a sophisticated and hearty dish perfect for ringing in the New Year. The tender pork, coated in fragrant herbs and paired with a sweet and tangy cider reduction, offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Pork:

2 pork tenderloins
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Apple Cider Sauce:

1 cup apple cider
¼ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Rub the pork tenderloins with olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Sear the pork in a hot skillet until browned on all sides, then transfer to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
In the same skillet, deglaze with apple cider and chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes, then whisk in the cornstarch mixture and butter until the sauce thickens.
Slice the pork and drizzle with the apple cider sauce. Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

This Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin is a celebration-worthy centerpiece that’s both flavorful and elegant. The apple cider sauce adds a festive touch, making it a memorable dish for starting the year on a delicious note.

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Grilled Shrimp

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Grilled Shrimp is a vibrant and healthy dish that’s perfect for a fresh start to the New Year. Loaded with colorful vegetables, tangy feta, and succulent shrimp, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

1 cup orzo pasta, cooked and drained
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing:

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Marinate the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Grill or sauté until cooked through.
In a large bowl, toss the orzo with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, and parsley.
Whisk together the dressing ingredients and pour over the salad, mixing well.
Top with grilled shrimp and serve warm or at room temperature.

This Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Grilled Shrimp is a light yet satisfying dish that captures the essence of the Mediterranean. It’s perfect for a festive lunch that celebrates fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Spaghetti Carbonara with Crispy Pancetta

Spaghetti Carbonara with Crispy Pancetta is a rich and comforting Italian classic that’s perfect for a New Year’s lunch. The creamy sauce, crispy pancetta, and perfectly cooked pasta create a dish that feels both indulgent and celebratory.

Ingredients:

12 oz spaghetti
4 oz pancetta, diced
3 large eggs
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
In a skillet, cook pancetta in olive oil until crispy. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
Drain the spaghetti and quickly toss it with the pancetta mixture in the skillet. Remove from heat and stir in the egg mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and black pepper.

This Spaghetti Carbonara is a luxurious yet simple dish that’s perfect for ringing in the New Year. Its rich, creamy texture and savory pancetta make it an instant crowd-pleaser, ensuring your lunch is both comforting and memorable.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!

1 week agoLast Updated: December 9, 2024

15 minutes read