After a very difficult and troubled 2020, we all could stand to have a few things to celebrate, which is why this year’s New Year’s parties should (hopefully) be truly joyous—and filled with fancy cocktails, watching the ball drop, and delicious party food.
We may not be able to celebrate with family and friends as easily as we did in years past (and, hopefully, in years to come) but the 2021 is full of opportunity and hope. If you’re feeling like you need some luck you may be be gearing up to eat some lucky New Year’s Day foods. And if you’re raring to make change, you may be planning some good New Year’s Day projects. But the start of a new year is also a good time to treat yourself—or treat yourself well—and there’s no better way to do that than with an elegant, delicious, easy (and possibly even healthy) New Year’s brunch menu!
The best thing about brunch is that it’s such a versatile meal. Sure, if you’ve got a house full of out-of-town guests, you can whip up some blueberry rolls or enough baked French toast to feed a crowd. Or if you’ve got a hungry family or want leftovers, then it doesn’t hurt to make enough crepes or egg frittata to feed everyone. But if your meal plans are limited to just one or two, then we have plenty of options as well, including baked granolas, poached fruit with yogurt, or a decadent fried Croque Madame egg and ham sandwich. Or whip up a few homemade breakfast sausage patties and some overnight waffles. Whatever you do, make sure you enjoy!
Fresh rhubarb may be hard to find in January, but frozen works just as well here. Poached in maple syrup, it makes a delicious and elegant topping for your favorite breakfast yogurt.
This rich, savory pancake-like concoction has an impressive look that belies how easy it is to make.
Treat yourself and the family to a decadent-but-light brunch by whipping this batter on New Year’s Eve, and storing it in the fridge until the morning.
This simple fruit medley gets a lot of flavor from being sautéed in butter with vanilla and thyme. Swirl it into yogurt for a simple brunch, or use it to top the waffles above.
Give yourself a treat with this bright, citrusy cocktail. Or if you’re starting Dry January, leave out the alcohol for a peppy take on morning juice.
Homemade sausage is far tastier than the pre-fab variety, and doesn’t take much work to mix together—you can do it the night before.
If you’re planning to make some healthy changes, this hearty breakfast will get you started on the right foot. And it’s tasty!
Here’s a slightly more indulgent, but still healthy way to start the new year. You can store extra candied peel at room temperature for up to a month.
This delicious snack is like a portable garden! Add an egg on the side for your best breakfast ever.
Possibly the ultimate combination of eggy breakfast and sandwichy lunch, this brunch special is always a treat.
