10 Delicious New Year’s Day Dinner Recipes to Start Your Year Right

New Year’s Day is the perfect time to kick off the year with a delicious meal. If you’re looking for fresh and exciting dishes to impress your family and friends, check out these 10 dinner recipes that are sure to make your celebration memorable. From hearty mains to delightful sides, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy!

Citrus-Glazed Salmon

Citrus-glazed salmon is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a New Year’s Day dinner. The bright citrus flavors enhance the natural richness of the salmon, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, which makes it a fantastic choice for busy cooks.

This recipe combines the zesty flavors of oranges and lemons with tender salmon fillets, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Orange slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the citrus mixture generously over each fillet.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with orange slices before serving. Enjoy your citrus-glazed salmon with your favorite sides!

Herb-Crusted Prime Rib

Herb-Crusted Prime Rib is a show-stopping dish perfect for a New Year’s Day dinner. The rich, juicy beef is enveloped in a flavorful herb crust that gives each bite a burst of freshness. It’s a satisfying meal that balances savory and aromatic notes, making it simply irresistible.

This recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, even for those who might shy away from cooking a large cut of meat. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful crust and achieve a tender roast that will impress your guests and make your holiday meal memorable.

Ingredients

• 1 (5-7 pound) prime rib roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard to form a paste.
3. Rub this mixture all over the prime rib, ensuring it’s well coated.
4. Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, bone side down, and roast for 15 minutes.
5. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the desired internal temperature is reached (130°F for medium-rare).
6. Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your delicious Herb-Crusted Prime Rib!

Braised Short Ribs with Root Vegetables

Braising short ribs is a simple way to create a hearty and flavorful dish that feels special for New Year’s Day. The process involves slow-cooking the beef until it becomes tender while absorbing the rich flavors from the root vegetables and spices. This dish delivers a comforting taste that’s perfect for chilly winter evenings.

The short ribs turn melt-in-your-mouth tender, complemented by the sweet and earthy notes of carrots, potatoes, and other root vegetables. With just a bit of prep and some time in the oven, you can create a meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends without too much fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 pounds beef short ribs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine
• 4 carrots, cut into chunks
• 3 potatoes, cut into chunks
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides, then remove them from the pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until softened. Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Return the short ribs to the pot, then add the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for about 3 hours, or until the meat is tender.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Serve the short ribs with the root vegetables and some of the cooking liquid spooned over the top.

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa

Stuffed acorn squash with quinoa is a delightful dish that combines earthy flavors with a touch of sweetness. The roasted squash serves as a perfect vessel, showcasing a colorful filling of quinoa, dried fruits, and nuts. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a festive dinner.

Making this recipe is simple and straightforward. Just roast the squash until tender, prepare the quinoa, and mix in your favorite fruits and nuts for added texture. It’s a versatile recipe that allows for customization based on what you have on hand, making it a great option for any home cook!

Ingredients

• 2 medium acorn squashes
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the acorn squashes in half and remove the seeds. Brush the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
2. While the squash is roasting, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with dried cranberries, chopped nuts, pomegranate seeds, and cinnamon. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Once the squash is done, carefully flip them cut-side up and fill each half with the quinoa mixture. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and wholesome stuffed acorn squash!

Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

This Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta offers a delightful blend of flavors that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender pasta, it combines the earthiness of spinach and the tangy notes of artichoke, creating a comforting dish perfect for New Year’s Day.

What makes this recipe a winner is its simplicity. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it an easy choice for a festive dinner. The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the subtle hints of garlic and Parmesan, making each bite a treat!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta of your choice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add Spinach and Artichokes: Stir in the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts, cooking until the spinach is wilted.
4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the pot, tossing to coat it in the creamy sauce.
6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Lentil and Mushroom Shepherd’s Pie

Lentil and Mushroom Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and comforting dish that makes for a perfect New Year’s Day dinner. This plant-based twist on the classic shepherd’s pie features a rich filling of lentils and mushrooms, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. The combination of earthy flavors and textures creates a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. It’s a great option for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike. The lentils provide protein and fiber, while the mushrooms add depth and umami. Serve it warm for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups mushrooms, chopped
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup peas (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Lentils: In a medium pot, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until tender.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in mushrooms and carrots, cooking until softened.
3. Combine Filling: Add cooked lentils, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix well and if using, stir in peas. Allow to simmer for a few minutes.
4. Assemble the Pie: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the lentil and mushroom mixture in a baking dish. Top with an even layer of mashed potatoes, smoothing out the surface.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown. Remove and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts tossed with savory, smoky bacon create an irresistible side dish perfect for New Year’s Day dinner. This recipe balances the earthy flavors of the sprouts with the salty richness of bacon, making it a delicious addition to any holiday feast. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, so you can spend more time enjoying the company of friends and family.

The key to this dish is the caramelization process, which brings out the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts while giving them a satisfying crunch. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a dish that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
• Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Bacon: In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
3. Add the Brussels Sprouts: Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet, cut side down. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
4. Caramelize: Cook the Brussels sprouts for about 5-7 minutes without stirring, allowing them to caramelize. Shake the pan occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Bake: Once caramelized, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sprouts are tender and golden brown.
6. Add Bacon and Serve: Remove from the oven, stir in the crispy bacon, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar if desired. Garnish with fresh rosemary before serving.

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Roasted garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting and flavorful side dish, perfect for any New Year’s Day dinner. The creamy texture combined with the rich, buttery taste of roasted garlic elevates this classic favorite to a whole new level. Simple to make, they are sure to impress your family and friends while being easy enough for anyone to whip up.

The sweet and mellow flavor of roasted garlic pairs beautifully with potatoes, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delightful. With just a few ingredients, you can have a comforting bowl of mashed potatoes that will steal the show at your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 head of garlic
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes until soft.
2. While the garlic is roasting, place the diced potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Once the garlic is done, allow it to cool slightly, then squeeze the roasted cloves out into a bowl.
4. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, heavy cream, and roasted garlic. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional butter if desired. Enjoy!

Sparkling Pomegranate and Rosemary Mocktail

This Sparkling Pomegranate and Rosemary Mocktail is a refreshing drink that perfectly balances sweetness with herbal notes. The tartness of pomegranate juice combined with the fizz of sparkling water creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for your New Year’s Day dinner.

Adding fresh rosemary gives this mocktail a unique twist, elevating it beyond your average beverage. Whether you’re serving guests or just treating yourself, this drink will spark joy and cheers at the table!

Ingredients

• 2 cups pomegranate juice
• 1 cup sparkling water
• 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• Pomegranate seeds for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, combine the pomegranate juice and sparkling water. Stir gently to mix.
2. Add ice cubes to your serving glasses.
3. Pour the mocktail mixture over the ice.
4. Garnish each glass with fresh pomegranate seeds and a sprig of rosemary.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the festive flavors!

Chocolate Hazelnut Tart

This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate with the nutty flavor of hazelnuts. With a buttery crust and a silky filling, it’s perfect for celebrating New Year’s Day and indulging in something sweet to start the year off right.

This tart is not only delicious but also simple to make. The blend of textures from the crisp crust to the smooth chocolate topping makes each bite a tasty treat for your palate. It’s sure to impress your family and guests, while keeping your baking efforts minimal.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
• 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and mix until dough forms. Press into a tart pan and chill for 30 minutes.
2. Pre-bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prick the crust with a fork and bake for 15-20 minutes until set. Let it cool completely.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a saucepan, heat heavy cream and granulated sugar over medium heat until just boiling. Remove from heat and stir in chopped dark chocolate and vanilla until smooth. Let cool slightly before mixing in chopped hazelnuts.
4. Assemble the Tart: Pour the chocolate hazelnut mixture into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Chill for at least 2 hours until set.
5. Serve: Once set, garnish with additional chopped hazelnuts if desired. Slice and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Tart!