New Year’s Eve celebrations often take a significant share of the year-end festivities budget. To help ease the financial strain, the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with La Vega Central, has unveiled a variety of affordable menu options. These dishes are based on the most economical seasonal products, ensuring families can enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank.
Seasonal Products at Lower Prices
Minister Esteban Valenzuela emphasized the recent drop in prices of seasonal fruits and vegetables and encouraged consumers to take full advantage of these affordable options. “There is good news,” he announced during a visit to La Vega Central. “We have many prices decreasing. It’s incredible to find a kilo of potatoes for just $500, as well as other vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and chili peppers.”
The Office of Agricultural Studies and Policies (Odepa) has confirmed this trend, reporting significant price reductions in several key products during the last week of the year. These include corn, potatoes, bell peppers, cabbage, and strawberries.
Recommended New Year’s Eve Menus
Here are four delicious and budget-friendly menu ideas for your New Year’s Eve dinner, featuring these seasonal ingredients:
1. Oven-Roasted Chicken on a Pesto Nest (Serves 4)
- Chicken: $8,000
- Spaghetti: $1,000
- Pesto Sauce: $3,000
Total: $12,000 ($3,000 per person)
This dish combines juicy roasted chicken with a flavorful pesto spaghetti base, making it a delightful and economical choice for your celebration.
2. Buttered Salmon with Rustic Mashed Potatoes (Serves 4)
- 1.2 kg Salmon: $14,000
- 2 kg Potatoes: $1,000
- Milk and Butter: $1,000
- Garnish (Cilantro or Parsley): $500
Total: $16,500 ($4,250 per person)
For a touch of elegance, try this salmon dish served with a hearty and rustic mashed potato side. The butter enhances the natural flavors of the salmon, making it a crowd-pleaser.
3. Traditional Barbecue with Exotic Rice (Serves 4)
- 1 kg Beef Loin: $14,000
- 1 kg Sausage: $6,000
- 2 Chicken Drumsticks: $3,000
- 0.5 kg Rice: $1,000
- 50 g Poppy Seeds: $500
- 2 Tomatoes: $500
Total: $25,000 ($6,250 per person)
This hearty menu combines a variety of meats with a unique twist on rice, incorporating poppy seeds for a nutty and exotic flavor. It’s a perfect option for those looking to include traditional barbecue elements in their celebration.
4. Ajiaco (Serves 4)
- Leftover Barbecue Meats: $0 (repurposed)
- 1 kg Potatoes: $1,000
- 2 Onions: $1,000
- 1 Bell Pepper: $1,000
- 2 Carrots: $1,000
Total: $4,000 ($1,000 per person)
Ajiaco is a traditional stew that transforms leftover barbecue meats into a comforting and flavorful dish. It’s not only budget-friendly but also a sustainable way to reduce food waste.
Make the Most of Seasonal Savings
The Ministry of Agriculture and La Vega Central’s efforts aim to support families during the festive season by highlighting affordable and delicious meal options. The significant price reductions in seasonal fruits and vegetables offer an opportunity to enjoy high-quality ingredients at a fraction of the usual cost.
By incorporating these recommended menus into your New Year’s Eve celebration, you can create memorable meals that delight your guests and protect your budget. Don’t hesitate to explore local markets for more inspiration and take full advantage of the seasonal bounty.
