1. Tuna and Artichoke Fritters (Accras)
Make life easier with these delicious fritters, which can be made ahead, frozen after frying, and reheated in the oven before serving. To mashed potatoes, simply add canned tuna, pickled artichokes, green olives, lemon and garlic. Pair these crispy, flavourful bites with an herb sauce that provides a refreshing contrast, offering something different from the classic tartar sauce.
Hors d'oeuvres
Tuna and Artichoke Fritters (Accras)
2. Grapefruit Amaretto Sour
The amaretto sour takes a surprising turn in this grapefruit version. This timeless cocktail, made with almond liqueur, grapefruit juice and lemon, is served ice-cold, bringing a refreshing touch to any party. Adorn the glass rim with sugar, zest and a thin grapefruit wedge for a simple yet stylish presentation.
Drinks and cocktails
Grapefruit Amaretto Sour
3. Sesame-Glazed Shrimp
Cocktail shrimp remain a holiday season staple. Their traditional red sauce is replaced here with a syrupy glaze made from soy sauce, sesame oil and maple syrup. They’re then coated with sesame seeds and served on skewers with cucumber and cilantro for a burst of freshness, ensuring a delightful start to the evening.
Appetizers
Sesame-Glazed Shrimp
4. Herbaceous Vermouth Punch
A cocktail served in a pitcher is perfect for hosting a large crowd. A syrup made with honey, apples, lemon and thyme, combined with cider vermouth for an herbal note, creates a lovely flavour blend. Once in the pitcher, top it with sparkling wine. A refined touch for this festive punch that stands out from the rest.
New Year's Eve
Herbaceous Vermouth Punch
To succeed in making an hors d’oeuvre that’ll be a huge hit, it has to be easily eaten with one’s fingers and held in one hand. It also requires a balance of flavours, needs to be perfectly seasoned and must have a contrast of textures. With just one bite, you’ll win everyone over.
5. Marinated Mushroom Crostini
Crostini are Italian hors d’oeuvres consisting of toasted bread slices topped with vegetables or meat. This vegetarian version features a variety of mushrooms for a delightful mix of textures. Deglazed with white wine vinegar for a lightly pickled effect, they pair beautifully with creamy whipped feta and crunchy toast. An easy yet refined appetizer.
Isabelle's Recipes
Marinated Mushroom Crostini
6. Sausage and Mustard Puff Pastry Rolls
Inspired by the classic frozen appetizer everyone knows and loves, this homemade version swaps sausage slices for a flavourful filling made with Toulouse sausage meat and aromatics. Wrap it in store-bought puff pastry before slicing and baking, and then pair the individual rolls with a sweet, tangy honey-mustard dipping sauce.
to freeze
Sausage and Mustard Puff Pastry Rolls
7. Paper Plane
With its vibrant red hue, the Paper Plane cocktail, created in 2008 by New York bartender Sam Ross, is perfect for the holidays. In a shaker, combine equal parts bourbon, bitter orange liqueur, amaro and lemon juice with ice for a bold, balanced classic to get the party started!
Drinks and cocktails
Paper Plane
8. Tuna Tartare with Radicchio and Orange
The word that best defines this appetizer is colourful! Deep red fresh tuna on crispy black fried nori chips, topped with shredded radicchio and a slice of orange, creates a visual and flavourful delight. The contrast of hues and textures ensures this dish is a standout.
No-Cook Meals
Tuna Tartare with Radicchio and Orange
For a light appetizer that’ll sustain everyone until the main meal, calculate about 3 to 4 hors d’oeuvres per guest. However, if you’re hosting a dinner cocktail, aim for 10 to 12 bites per person, starting with lighter canapés and ending with more satiating ones (whether animal or plant based), cheese-based versions, or main meals in a smaller format.