With the countdown to New Year's Eve 2024 underway, excitement is building as festivities gear up across the country. Ryan Seacrest, celebrating his 20th year as the host of 'Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest,' shared insights about the iconic celebration during his recent appearance on 'Good Morning America.'
Seacrest expressed his anticipation, stating, "I look forward to it, I get excited every time we are about to watch the ball drop." The event, being aired live starting at 8 p.m. ET on December 31, is expected to be filled with memorable performances, including appearances by Carrie Underwood and the Jonas Brothers, who are returning to the stage to celebrate two decades of music together.
Weather often adds surprises to New Year's Eve celebrations, and Seacrest mentioned, "The weather is always a great memory because it creates a story. I think it's going to be warm but raining for the whole show this year, but when it is challenging outside, it makes for a little more fun." This year’s line-up will feature over 60 songs, ensuring the night is filled with thrilling entertainment.
Reflecting on his two-decade hosting career, Seacrest recalled how his pre-show meals have changed over the years. "I used to have barbecue, but now I eat much less," he noted, emphasizing the rigorous preparation involved before the live broadcast. This includes running through the entire show well before the live coverage begins.
Seacrest shared the essence of New Year's Eve celebrations, saying, "We are all together. Our differences don't matter for about a minute or two at the start of the year, and that's something that's so rare, significant, and special, and it's magical to watch." This sentiment of unity resonates deeply with the audience as families and friends gather to usher in the new year.
For those planning to host their own gatherings, New Year's Eve is also about indulging with delicious food and drinks. Chef Joe Isidori, celebrated Michelin award-winning chef, offered up three festive recipes to make celebrations even more enjoyable: Strawberry Rossini Cocktail, Baked Crab and Parmesan Dip, and Truffled Rigatoni 'Carbonara Style.'
To create the Strawberry Rossini Cocktail, you'll need one 750ml bottle of sparkling apple cider, 1 cup of fresh strawberry purée, and 6 whole strawberries. Begin by placing 2-3 tablespoons of strawberry purée at the bottom of each champagne flute, topping it off with sparkling cider and garnishing it with a whole strawberry. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for toasting as the clock strikes midnight.
Isidori’s Baked Crab and Parmesan Dip offers another crowd-pleasing option. Ingredients include 1 lb of claw crab meat, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, garlic and onion powder, and scallions. The dip is prepared by mixing together these ingredients, baking until golden and crispy, and is best served with French baguette slices.
Lastly, the Truffled Rigatoni 'Carbonara Style' combines bronze die cut rigatoni with heavy cream, bacon, mushrooms, and truffle oil for an elegant dish. After preparing the rigatoni, the sauce is made by sautéing bacon, garlic, and mushrooms before adding heavy cream and cheese, resulting in a rich, decadent meal.
These recipes by chef Joe Isidori provide not just delicious options for gatherings but also reflect the holiday spirit of indulgence as people prepare to celebrate together. 'Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest' will capture the excitement of the night as audiences experience the countdown together, highlighting the connections we share during this special time.
Whether you're hosting your own get-together or tuning in to the iconic show, the shared moments and culinary delights promise to make welcoming 2024 unforgettable.