I’ve never been one for New Year’s Eve. I’ve always found it so anti-climactic. One minute everyone is filled with excitement and anticipation. The next minute it’s all over and the truth is, it feels pretty much the same as it did the minute before, but now you’ve got to find your way home and head to bed. Anti-climactic.
I am, however, all about new beginnings and fresh starts and that is exactly what the very next day represents. January 1st. Getting up to a new year? THAT, to me, is more exciting. And what better way to start that new year than with food? So, while I will probably turn down an invitation to a New Year’s Eve party, I’ll be the first to show up at a New Year’s Day Brunch!
If you are deciding to throw your own New Year’s Day Brunch party, here are some recipe ideas for you. I like the variety that this menu presents. I also like that there’s something for everyone - the vegetarian, the meat-eater, the sweet lover and even the gluten-free guest. You can also make a lot of this ahead of time so that you can be sure to enjoy your own brunch too.
You make these the day before and let them rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Then, take them out of the fridge well in advance so they come to room temperature and rise more. Bake, invert and then stand back as they get devoured!
This is a much nicer way of presenting bacon than just rashers on a plate. Cut each strip of bacon in half and tie it in a knot. The maple syrup and black pepper make it extra delicious. You can make these in the air fryer or in your oven. You can also make these ahead of time and just re-heat before brunch.
Ham, Spinach and Gruyère Stuffed Waffles
Now you do need a waffle maker for these, but if you have one, you can make these waffles ahead of time too. You can even freeze them. Reheat them in the oven on the oven rack (not on a cookie sheet), or better yet, in your air fryer!
Spinach, Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Roulade
How pretty is this egg dish? Served simply with a salad and it’s a perfect meal. You can make this semi-ahead of time. Make the roulade, stuff and roll it the morning of the brunch. Then, re-heat it before the guests sit down. Slice and serve.
Finally, yes, you might be looking for a drink to serve. Well, few drinks can be more fun than a Bloody Mary. Build your garnish bar and let your guests go crazy… well, not TOO crazy. We’ll save that for the night before. 😉
Happy New Year!
ML
