Tuesday, January 01, 2008

Celebrating in Comfort

A New Year's Eve celebration at home was always my preferred party mode and now that we have a little one, it's an even more attractive way to ring in the new year. No babysitter, no cover charge, no late-night winter driving, just a good time in the comforts of our own home. Of course, it's also a great excuse to cook mountains of party food, chill bottles of champagne in deep tubs of snow, and invite a few close friends over.

Happy New Year everyone!


My guests were more of a conservative crowd as far as palates are concerned (no ceviche or sashimi here!) so I chose a retro comfort food theme for my menu. We feasted on foods that were probably served at parties in the 70's or 80's such as chocolate mousse and mini quiches. Everything was gobbled up pretty quickly, so I suppose I guessed it right for this crowd.

The menu:

Finger Food
Gouda Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Dill Pickle
Shrimp with Parsley-Garlic Butter
Mini Margerita Pizzas
Spanikopita Triangles
Tomato Bruschetta
Mini Bacon and Cheddar Quiches
Crudité and Dip
Smoked Salmon Spread on Crackers
Cheese Board
Dessert
Mini Crème Brulé
Chocolate Mousse
Domino Brownies
Cherries & Grapes
Assorted Cookies and Sweets



We had a Vegas theme for our little party and guess who surprised everyone by winning the big pot? That's right, moi, and not just because I was the only one sober, but because I have some serious poker talent!

Today snow is falling in huge flakes outside and we've got naps planned all around. Later on we're heading to the in-laws for turkey dinner-and the feasting continues! I'm contributing a chocolate layer cake large enough for an army (guess I am continuing the whole 'comfort food' theme).

Hope everyone is recovering well from last night's fêtes.
Here's wishing everyone a very happy and healthy 2008!

16 comments:

JEP said...

Happy New Year! I could have been right at home by the looks of your menu! Mmmm...comfort food is always the best:)

Mandy said...

You put my menu to shame - it looks devine. I'm going to mentally log the idea of the grilled cheese wedges with pickles as a finger food - that looks splendid!

Happy New Year!

Sandy said...

Your New Year's Eve menu sounds mouth watering. I love your choices....all feel good food.

Happy New Year!

David Hall said...

Looked like a great party! A lot of work them canapes. Nice one. Love the photos.

Happy New Year, all the best for 2008

Cheers
David x

winedeb said...

Wow, what a way to bring in the new year! I love the looks of the domino cakes! Too cool!
Happy New Year Aimee! My best to you for a peaceful and happy 2008!
Cheers!

Valerie Harrison (bellini) said...

Happy New Year Aimee!! Looks like everyone felt welcomed with delicious foods. I'll look forward to many more fantastic recipes in 2008 from "Under the High Chair"!!

Nora B. said...

That is such a terrific menu. I love the idea of domino brownies. I prefer a dinner party at home too for such occasions. I can't believe how you managed to prepare all that food while being very pregnant. You are an amazing lady!

Do you have a photo of the massive choc cake that you are taking to the in-laws?

x Nora

Dana said...

Happy New Year to You!

Long time lurker but new to commenting. I share your love of cooking and baking. I am new to creating and trying adventurous recipes, but I look forward to a great 2008!

My goal is to try as many recipes as you post!

Thanks for the inspiration
Dana

Amanda at Little Foodies said...

That place is still for sale in our lane!

Love the theme, menu and the pics!

Happy, Happy New Year!

Tammy said...

What a fabulous looking spread! It looks absolutely wonderful. Happy New Year! I look forward to a second installment of "Danny Cooks" in 2008! ;)

Aimée said...

Hi Jep- Welcome to UtHC! Happy New Year to you too.

Hi Mandy- Hey, anyone can do grilled cheese, that's the beauty of it. Remember, though, start with the best bread you can possibly get your hands on.

Hi Sandy- Looks like you enjoyed some great food over the holidays, too!

Hi David- Thanks so much! Happy New Year to you and your family.

Hi Deb- Thanks, we had fun.

Hi Valli- I am contemplating the future of UtHC as I write tonight...it should be exciting!

Hi Nora- Thanks, I admit I was not sure about mini pizzas and all that, but they certainly have their rightful place! No, sorry, no photo of the layer cake...

Hi Dana- A warm welcome to you, fellow Canadian! Your goal leaves me speechless and moved. I'll be in touch.

Hi Amanda- How are your poker skills? :)

Hi Tammy: That's funny, I've just been negotiating for a story that I really must tell. Stay tuned.

Dana said...

Sounds like a perfect New Year's! What could be better than good friends and good food???

Cookie baker Lynn said...

Happy New Year to you as well! It looks like you had a wonderful party. I adore the domino brownies!

Paige said...

First comment I've left and I very much enjoy your blog. I like your commentary as well as the beautiful food! I'm more at the beginning stages when it comes to cooking, but I LOVE good tasting food. Hopefully I'll be able to try out some of your recipies and better my own cooking skills.

Thank you!

Aimée said...

Hi Dana- You got it! Not much could be better.

Hi Lynn- Thanks! They were a hit and so easy to make.

Hi Segolily- Welcome to UtHC! Sounds like your on the right track when it comes to cooking: you gotta love EATING first! Hope to see you around more.

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