FROSTED METALLICS AND CRISP WHITES LOOK FRESH AND FABULOUS – AND THEY’RE A GLITTERING BACKDROP TO A NEW YEAR’S EVE FEAST
RECIPES AND FOOD STYLING MARINA FILIPPELLI
PEAR & GINGER MARTINI
Save the Prosecco for midnight and welcome your guests to the celebration with this smooth cocktail
1 pear 1 lemon Granulated sugar, for the glasses 150ml ginger cordial (made from 2 tbsp ginger cordial and 120ml water), chilled 350ml pear juice, chilled 125ml vodka, chilled
1Cut the pear into thin wedges and place them in a bowl along with the juice of ½ the lemon.
2 Cut the remaining lemon into wedges. Run the wedges along the rims of six martini glasses, then dip the rims in a shallow bowl filled with sugar. Place a pear wedge in each glass.
3 Squeeze any remaining juice from the lemon into a large jug. Add a few ice cubes and stir in the chilled ginger cordial, pear juice and vodka. Stir well, strain into the prepared glasses and serve immediately.
NOSTALGIC NOD
Unusual vintage pieces can make a striking centrepiece and a talking point for guests. With the candlelight gently reflecting off the brass-plated steel and the heat generated prompting the angels to spin, this traditional Swedish Christmas decoration is the star of the dinner setting.
SILVER LEAF
This charming oak leaf chair garland is made from thick aluminium foil (from foil oven trays), cut into leaf shapes and scored then put in a low oven to darken, lending an antique feel.
Antique Swedish chair, Maison Artefact
SUBTLE SPARKLE
A tiny terracotta pot filled with a glittering decoration is used as a place card, bringing a festive individual touch to each setting.
LOBSTER, TARRAGON BUTTER & BAGUETTE TOASTS
Bring some classic grandeur to the festivities with this delicate and delicious showstopping starter
1 thin baguette 3 lobster tails Micro herbs, such as parsley or coriander, to serve Lemon wedges, to serve FOR THE BUTTER 200g salted butter, at room temperature Finely grated zest of 1 lemon Large handful of tarragon, leaves stripped and chopped
1 To make the tarragon butter, put the butter, lemon zest and tarragon in a large bowl and stir vigorously until the ingredients are well combined. Spoon the mixture into 6 small dishes and chill in the fridge.
2 Cutthe baguette into long, thin diagonal slices. Place under the grill until they’re lightly toasted on both sides. Set aside to cool.
3 Bringa l
