New Year’s Eve parties: 2025 is drawing to its close. As the New Year’s Eve preparations continue to move into full swing, last-minute plans are knocking at your door. While the final day of 2025, December 31, might be your last day of cheat meals before you hit the gym on January 1, you can start eating better a day early! Packed with sugary drinks and fried snacks, take a step back and serve your guests these protein-packed and guilt-free party snacks that will be gobbled before they make their rounds across the table.
The recipe for a guilt-free party snack starts with its appearance. Nobody wants to munch on a boiled carrot stick, but serve it on a Lebanese platter and watch it disappear, paired with hummus, pita bread, and falafel. However, these quick recipes will save your diet and your New Year’s Eve party as you countdown to 2026.
New Year’s Eve party snacks: Quick, Easy, Guilt-Free
- Tandoori Paneer Skewers
Give a smoky twist to your average paneer tikka and infuse at least 10 grams of protein per serving with this dish. Toss paneer in a curd marinate and watch the cottage cheese infused in aroma. Use a grill or air-fryer to make these skewer-friendly paneer chunks. Add vegetables of your choice along with all major Indian spices. Give it a Korean twist by adding chilly oil in your marinade.
- Chicken lettuce cups
A fibrous twist to the shawarmas, these chicken lettuce cups are your best friend for finger food. Replace the table spread of chips with these cups overloaded with flavour. Cook shredded chicken with onions and serve piping hot in cups made with iceberg lettuce. Top it with grated cheese, making it the perfect snack to accompany drinks and spirits.
- Roasted Chickpeas
Tired of salted peanuts? Try these chickpeas that will leave you wanting more with every bite. Toss boiled chickpeas in olive oil or air fry them for 20-25 minutes. It gives you a crispy and munchy snack, and it has nearly 30 grams of protein per cup. Serve in bowls or as a topping over chaats; these are a must-try for your New Year’s Eve party snacks.
- Egg and Grape picks
Perfect alternative to fried spring rolls, stack toothpicks with egg slices, grapes, and tomatoes for the perfect bites of delectable munchies. A true partner for your wines, it has nearly 6 grams of protein per pick. For a vegetarian version, replace the eggs with cheese cubes, adding friendly fat to your diet.
- Tuna Cracker Spread
Give a protein-rich spin to your cheeseboard as you add a bit of oomph with this tuna cracker spread. Loaded with omega-3 and endless snackability, display canned tuna slices, ham, grapes, and olives paired with crispy crackers and dips like hung curd with a touch of green onions. Bring in a store-bought southwestern chipotle to add richness to this board.
