Celebrating New Year’s Eve: Exciting and Nutritious Ideas for Your Media Noche
MANILA, Philippines — Now that Christmas has come and gone, the excitement shifts toward the next big celebration: New Year’s Eve. As the countdown to 2026 approaches, families and friends look forward to Media Noche, the traditional feast that marks the first meal of the New Year. This year’s reunions are especially meaningful for many, filled with the thrill of fireworks and the popping of champagne corks.
So how can you make this festive occasion both joyful and health-conscious? Five renowned chefs offer their expert tips and delectable menu suggestions for a vibrant and safe New Year’s celebration.
Chef Sonny Mariano
Chef Sonny Mariano from the Tasteless Food Group emphasizes the importance of balance during Media Noche. “For a happy, healthy, and safe gathering, opt for a balanced spread that feels festive,” he advises.
Start with Lighter Appetizers:
Consider DIY fresh salads or a simple cheese platter. These options are easy to prepare, fun to customize, and minimize food waste.
Lighter Main Courses:
Post-Christmas indulgence makes lighter mains a wise choice. Roast chicken, grilled fish, or a few simpler stew or soup dishes can keep the feast satisfying without overloading on heaviness.
Room for Indulgence:
If you’re craving something richer, feel free to include dishes like roast beef—but pair them thoughtfully with vegetables or rice, observing a Peking duck style to keep things balanced.
Practical Tips:
Think about what dishes will taste great reheated the next day. Ultimately, Chef Sonny reminds us, “What is most important is to welcome the New Year surrounded by loved ones.”
Chef Myrna Segismundo
Chef Myrna Segismundo acknowledges that during the holiday season, maintaining a healthy diet can sometimes be challenging. However, she offers two ingenious dish suggestions to lighten up your Media Noche table.
Boquerones or Kinilaw:
Consider preparing Spanish boquerones of fresh anchovies marinated in olive oil and vinegar, or a kinilaw using tanguingue soaked in vinegar and minced onions.
Composed Salad:
A composed salad of sweet pomelo and orange segments, crispy singkamas, diced carrots, and steamed shrimp drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette can brilliantly cut through the richness of traditional holiday dishes.
Chef Redd Agustin
For Chef Redd Agustin, the key to ringing in 2026 lies in a hearty but manageable Steak Bake. This dish is perfect for preparing ahead of time.
Steak Bake Recipe:
- Ingredients: 750 grams of USDA Choice or Prime Ribeye Steak, seasoned, and garlic confit
- Procedure: Marinate steak for two hours, sear, and chill before cutting into cubes. Prepare garlic confit by slowly cooking whole cloves in oil until golden.
Mashed Potatoes & Gravy:
For a creamy side, mash boiled potatoes with cream and butter, combining with sautéed mushrooms and prepared gravy for a rich sauce to accompany the main dish.
Chef Dorothy Ferreria
Chef Dorothy Ferreria prefers to keep it simple and light post-holiday indulgences.
Clear Chicken Soup:
Her go-to dish is a scratch-made clear chicken soup with shredded chicken and spring onions. Minimal ingredients keep it flavorful without being overwhelming.
Siomai & Steamed Fish:
Serve your clear soup with siomai and the delightful steamed fish recipe that she’s graciously shared. This dish not only adds a touch of elegance but also provides a healthier protein option.
Chef Cyrille Soenen
Bringing a touch of finesse to the New Year’s table, Chef Cyrille Soenen recommends an exquisite mix of light and indulgent options.
Starter Course:
Begin with fresh oysters paired with champagne and mignonette—carefully sourced for freshness.
Foie Gras:
Next, indulge in a duck liver terrine served with toast. He notes that making your own terrine ensures the right seasonings and flavors.
Elegant Mains:
Follow with perfectly cooked scallops and a luxurious Beef Tournedos with truffle sauce. His focus on technique—like using a thermometer to achieve the perfect doneness—guarantees a restaurant-quality dish.
Cheese & Dessert:
Finish with a simple cheese course, featuring brie with dried fruits and nuts, and for dessert, he suggests his signature Kouign Amann, a sweet layered pastry brimming with butter and sugar.
As you plan your Media Noche, these expert tips and dishes ensure that your celebration will be not only flavorful and festive but also bring a sense of health and practicality as you usher in the New Year. Happy New Year! Celebrate responsibly, and keep the joy and health of your loved ones in focus!
RELATED: Party trays, holiday sets, luscious desserts for get-togethers