New Years Eve Appetizers

A bit of garlicky bread crumb topping turns fresh clams into irresistible snacks.

These cheese puffs – known in French as gougères – are easy enough to make, beloved by all who eat them, and can be made ahead of time, frozen, and reheated gently in the oven to no ill affect.

Oysters and champagne are a classic combination for a reason – and the cold waters of winter make it a great time to indulge in fresh oysters. Spritz freshly shucked oysters with lemon or serve with mignonette sauce (add minced shallots to a few tablespoons of good quality champagne vinegar and add salt and pepper to taste) or Tabasco.

Most shellfish is at its best when pulled from cold water, so winter is a perfect time to cook up bivalves like mussels. Most people have eaten mussels one way: steamed. Try them pan-roasted for a more intense flavor and a less messy presentation that allows you to serve them as appetizers or even passed hors d'oœvres.

Toss cauliflower florets in a warmly spiced butter mixture, roast them up, and serve with toothpicks for a surprisingly elegant appetizer.

Peanuts may not sound special enough for New Year's Eve, but these really are – popped mustard seeds give them a light smokey flavor perfect with champagne.