Rosh Hashanah—the start of the Jewish New Year—is right around the corner. Regardless of your religious affiliation, hosting a Rosh Hashanah feast is a wonderful way to celebrate the bounty of fall with loved ones.
Make this year’s dinner a casual affair, with a simple plate of cheese, honey and fruit to start off the meal, followed by showstopping salmon served whole and two salads that embrace everything that autumn has to offer. Close out the evening with a very sweet finish to mark the start of a (hopefully just as sweet) year. Oh, and don’t forget the challah!
 To Begin: Fresh Cheese and Honey with Figs
Honey plays a big role in Rosh Hashanah; make sure you have it on your table to ensure a sweet new year. In this cheese plate, it’s paired with fresh figs and a creamy fresh curd cheese. |
| As a Starter: Raw Root Vegetable Salad
For a beautiful swap, try candy-striped beets. If you don’t want to start fussing with a mandoline, this dressing is great on cabbage. Just grab a large bag of coleslaw, toss with the dressing to taste, and top with chopped nuts and black pepper before serving.
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| Daily Bread: Challah
Brioche-like challah is so beautiful, it warrants a space at the center of the dinner table. Don’t know how to braid challah? It’s easy—check out our step-by-step pointers.
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For the Main Event: Fennel-Roasted Whole Salmon
Salmon always makes a special dinner, with its full but mild flavor, meaty texture, beautifully colored flesh and high concentration of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Look for wild Alaskan salmon, the best choice in terms of sustainability.
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| On the Side: Shredded Brussels Sprout and Kale Salad
Two favorite autumn vegetables—brussels sprouts and kale—come together in this healthful salad. If you’ve never eaten these vegetables raw, you’re in for a delicious surprise. A sprinkling of pomegranate seeds adds a pop of color.
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| Sweet Finish: Frosted Apple Cake
Highlight one of Rosh Hashanah’s most symbolic foods, apples, by making them the star of the dessert course. Use a soft, tart apple, such as Gravenstein or McIntosh. Pippin or Granny Smith apples work well, too.
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