Whether it’s festive nibbles with the neighbours or a full-scale NYE party, these drinks and canapés are sure to please all

■ Serves 16 ■ Prep 45 mins plus cooling ■ Cook 30 mins 140g unsalted butter, plus extrafor the tin100ml grapeseed or anotherflavourless oil200ml milk3 tbsp yogurt1 tsp vanilla extract2 eggs, at room t

Often, it’s the supporting roles that command the most attention – like these glorious starters, sides and sauces

■ Serves 4 ■ Prep 5 mins ■ Cook 20 mins 5 tbsp olive oil1 tsp smoked paprika1 tsp cumin seeds400g can cherry tomatoes200g fresh cherry tomatoes2 garlic clovessmall bunch of parsleysmall bunch of basil

SERVES 8 | PREP 10 MINS PLUS COOLING | COOK 20 MINS | EASY 10g butter, softened, for brushing200g plain flour, plus extrafor dusting100g polenta1½ tsp baking powder200g caster sugar1 large orange, zes

Expect lots of admiring comments when you round off your celebratory meal with an impressive prep-ahead dessert