Black-Eyed Peas, Greens, and Cornbread for New Year’s Luck

• Black-eyed peas: Skipping the soaking step can leave them tough and unevenly cooked. Soak them overnight or use a quick-soak method to achieve their signature creaminess.
• Collard greens: Overcooking turns these vibrant greens bitter and mushy. Aim for tender leaves with just enough structure to hold their shape.
• Cornbread: Too little liquid or overbaking can result in a dry, crumbly texture. A cast iron skillet helps lock in moisture while adding a crisp, golden crust.
• Champagne: Serving it warm diminishes its sparkle. Chill it to 45°F–50°F and pair it with light, salty snacks for the best flavor.

Black-eyed peas are tied to good fortune and resilience, making them a must-have for New Year's Day. For the best flavor and texture, use dried peas instead of canned. Soak them overnight to ensure even cooking, then simmer them slowly with ham hocks, onions, and garlic. The smoky ham adds richness and depth to the creamy peas, making this dish as comforting as it is symbolic.

For a vegetarian alternative, swap the ham for vegetable broth and smoked paprika to maintain the hearty flavor.

Prefer something lighter? Black-eyed pea salad adds vibrant color and crunch. Toss the cooked peas with diced bell peppers, red onions, and a tangy vinaigrette for a fresh, modern take on this classic dish.

Collard greens symbolize wealth and prosperity, and their vibrant green leaves represent the financial fortune we all hope for in the year ahead. Preparing them well starts with washing the greens thoroughly to remove grit, then slicing them into thin ribbons for even cooking. Braise the greens with onions, garlic, and smoked turkey or bacon to create layers of savory richness, or for a vegetarian twist, swap the meat for olive oil and vegetable broth. A touch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke adds depth, keeping the dish hearty and flavorful.

To brighten the flavors, finish with a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. For a change of pace, kale or mustard greens add a unique flair to the dish while keeping it just as satisfying.

Cornbread embodies abundance; its golden hue evokes the wealth and prosperity we hope for in the year ahead. If the New Year's Eve festivities have left you feeling a little run down, there's no shame in using a cornbread mix—it's quick and easy and still delivers that warm, comforting flavor. For a homemade touch, bake it in a hot cast-iron skillet to achieve a perfectly crispy crust while keeping the interior soft and tender.

Want to take it up a notch? Mix in sharp cheddar for a savory boost, diced jalapeños for a bit of heat, or a drizzle of honey for sweetness. Serve it warm, straight from the skillet, to complement the bold flavors of the black-eyed peas and collard greens. If you're making it ahead, reheat it gently in the oven to bring back its fresh-from-the-oven goodness.

Champagne is synonymous with celebration, and nothing sets the tone for the New Year quite like a sparkling toast. Chill your bottle to the perfect temperature—between 45°F and 50°F—and pop it just before pouring. Pair it with light snacks like salted popcorn, a simple charcuterie board, or brie-topped crackers to keep the flavors crisp and balanced.

Looking to add a little flair? Mix up a festive cocktail. A classic mimosa with fresh orange juice is bright and refreshing, while a French 75—a blend of gin, lemon juice, and bubbly—brings a touch of elegance to your table.

If you've got guests who need a bit more of a fiesta to their feast, round out your New Year's spread with party snacks that keep the celebration lively. Mini sliders are always a hit—dress them up with caramelized onions, spicy mayo, or sharp cheddar for a gourmet touch. A well-curated cheese board featuring creamy brie, sharp cheddar, dried fruits, and nuts makes for a visually stunning centerpiece and an easy crowd-pleaser.

For a bite-sized upgrade, elevate deviled eggs with smoked salmon, a sprinkle of truffle oil, or a dash of sriracha for a playful kick.

Desserts bring the perfect end to your New Year's meal, offering a chance to reflect and savor the moment. A zesty lemon bundt cake symbolizes fresh starts, and its citrus flavor pairs beautifully with champagne. For a touch of whimsy, chocolate-dipped fortune cookies invite guests to crack open playful messages for the year ahead.

If tradition is your style, mini fruit tarts filled with jewel-toned preserves add both sweetness and elegance to your spread. These eye-catching treats deliver just the right balance of flavor and festivity to round out your celebration.

Preparing ahead allows you to relax and enjoy the celebration alongside your guests. Black-eyed peas and collard greens are ideal make-ahead dishes—their flavors only deepen overnight. Cook them a day before, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When it's time to serve, gently reheat the peas on the stovetop over low heat and braise the greens until warmed through, preserving their rich flavors and textures.

The cornbread can also be baked ahead of time; to keep it moist, wrap it in foil and reheat it in the oven at a low temperature. Serve with softened butter or a drizzle of honey for added flair.

To keep the party atmosphere effortless, set up a self-serve drink and snack station. Include pre-sliced fruit for garnishing drinks, bowls of garnishes like mint or citrus wedges, and a mix of snacks such as cheese, crackers, and deviled eggs.

Why not broaden your New Year's celebration by drawing inspiration from good-luck traditions around the world? These international dishes add cultural flair and meaning to your menu, offering something special for every guest.

• Japanese soba noodles symbolize longevity and resilience. Their unbroken strands represent long life, making them a must-eat dish at the turn of the year. Serve them in a light broth or toss them with a sesame-soy dressing for a flavorful twist.
• Italian lentils and sausages are a beloved pairing thought to bring wealth and prosperity. The lentils' coin-like shape represents money, while the sausages' richness signifies abundance. Simmer them together in a savory tomato sauce for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish.
• The Spanish 12 Grapes of Luck invites participants to eat one grape for every stroke of midnight. Each grape represents good fortune for one month of the year. To make it festive, serve the grapes in individual bowls or alongside a sparkling glass of cava.

Tie all the elements together with a menu that blends tradition and modern creativity, offering something for every palate. This lineup celebrates good fortune, prosperity, and renewal while delighting your guests.

• Starter: Begin with a vibrant black-eyed pea salad. Tossed with bell peppers, red onions, and a tangy vinaigrette, it's a fresh take on a dish steeped in Southern tradition.
• Main: Serve tender braised collard greens alongside golden cornbread, with options for savory add-ins like cheddar or jalapeños. This hearty pairing embodies abundance and wealth.
• Snacks: Keep the celebration lively with mini sliders topped with gourmet additions like caramelized onions or spicy mayo, plus a cheese board featuring brie, cheddar, and seasonal fruits.
• Desserts: Finish on a sweet note with a zesty lemon bundt cake that symbolizes fresh starts and chocolate-dipped fortune cookies for a playful touch of whimsy.
• Drinks: To add sparkle to the occasion, raise a toast with chilled champagne or festive cocktails like mimosas or French 75s.