Seriously Simple: Ring in New Year with Seriously Simple appetizers
New Year's Eve can be fraught with anxiety. My phone starts ringing with queries about our plans for the evening. My answer is usually the same. We are staying home and maybe a few friends will drop by. I like to have Seriously Simple appetizers on hand and (depending upon my budget) good proscecco or Champagne for toasting.
I can't resist sharing my two go-to New Year's Eve appetizers. The tuna tartare has a French influence, with mustard, cornichons, green peppercorns and tarragon, while my smoked salmon appetizer has a bit of a Scandinavian influence, with a dill cream garnish. Feel free to add a garnish of your favorite caviar to either one. Both of these can be made 3 hours ahead and refrigerated. I've also included a list of other ideas to fill out your menu with store-bought ingredients.
Smoked Salmon with Crispy Shallots and Dilled Cream
Serves 4 to 6.
1/2 cup sour cream or creme fraiche
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill weed
Salt and freshly ground white pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoon unsalted butter
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