It's that time of the year, when we all gather to celebrate the end of the year, with family, friends and loved ones. Whether you're a host or a guest, it's handy to have a repertoire of recipes that are made to share and entertain. Here are some easy nibbles and snacks that you can enjoy this festive season.
The light, airy choux pastry is incredibly versatile and can be used for both sweet and savoury treats. Smoked trout and soft cheese, dressed with plenty of herbs, lemon and caper are just a match made in heaven. Bursting with flavour, yet light on the stomach, these will make a perfect start to your gathering.
Smoked trout filled choux pastry Source: Kitti Gould
Does one need a whole board, when the charcuterie can be condensed into a delicious, impressive loaf of sourdough? Topped with honey, hazelnuts, rosemary and sage, it's a true masterpiece that's easy as.
Baked brie in sourdough Source: Adam Liaw
Cob, but make it potato
Potato pizza cob loaf
You just can't go wrong with sausage rolls, kids and adults alike, especially if they are homemade, with chopped salami for an extra layer of flavour. Ready in 30 minutes, these are best served hot, with tomato sauce.
Source: Adam Liaw
This Persian dip is full of sweet-salty-sour balance and topped with crunchy walnuts. It's always the first item to be finished whenever Sabrina Ghayour serves it, with people often being surprised that it’s made from butternut pumpkin.
Source: Kris Kirkham
This scrumptious street snack from India and Bangladesh will be a perfect plate to take to your next party, or entertain your guest with. Serve with homemade raita and masala, scattered with extra mint leaves for extra aroma and freshness.
Curry prawn fuchka with raita Source: Kitti Gould
Bite-sized bao buns can be filled with anything, and are a great way to entertain a crowd. This one takes inspiration from the famous Japanese katsu-sando but uses crispy panko-coated prawns instead. The cabbage is slightly pickled for the extra zing. You can purchase pre-made bao at Asian grocers and simply steam to warm them.
Source: Danielle Abou Karam
These triangles of smoked salmon sandwich perfectly bring together just the right combination of creaminess, saltiness and daintiness. It's simple, light and refreshing, perfect for entertaining, picnics and treating yourself.
Salmon and cucumber sandwiches Source: Kitti Gould
Super easy, yet simple to whip up. All you'll need is a rye wrap and a muffin tray to mould the cups on. This one has roasted vegetables, egg and milk, but you can certainly add your own creative touch. The best part is that you can prepare these ahead of time, and the leftovers are perfect for lunch the following day!
Spanish tortilla pies Source: Reversing Diabetes
Whipped cream, fresh fruit and some fluffy bread. It's simple, yet refreshingly delicious. Strawberries, mangoes, kiwis, oranges...mix and match your favourite fruits, and think carefully about how you'll orient and cut the sandwich. Use pillowy Japanese milk bread for an authentic finish, or substitute cream with mascarpone, for more of a tang.
Japanese fruit sando Source: Jessica Thompson
Perfect for a refreshing summer dessert, these little cookie cups are the perfect sweet end-of-meal bite. You can make the cookie cups in advance and add the chilled cheesecake filling, sprinkle strawberries and basil just before serving.
Strawberry cheesecake cookie cups Source: Kitti Gould