While in America we may toast to the new year with Champagne and eat black-eyed peas for good luck, those who celebrate the Lunar New Year have a host of food traditions that symbolize wealth, health, and family unity. At a Lunar New Year celebration dinner at Hakkasan in San Francisco hosted by Tiger Beer, we learned about the eight items that have been served each year on the Lunar Near Year for centuries. Why eight? In Chinese, the number eight (huat), translates to “get wealthy.”
Steamed dumplings are shaped like the ancient Chinese gold currency, called ingot, and represent wealth. According to legend, the number of dumplings you eat during the new year corresponds to the amount of money you’ll make that year. That’s reason enough to eat an extra dumpling (or five). (via China Sichuan Food)
Yu means both fish and prosperity in Chinese. Dining on a whole fish during the Lunar New Year embodies family unity. (via The Woks of Life)
Here’s your reason to slurp noodles and not break them — the longer the noodles, the longer the life of the person who consumes them, legend has it. If you can, splurge on Longevity Noodles, a large portion of noodles that contains just one long strand that is not cut, which is why it tends to be on the pricier side. (via Woks of Life)
The stickiness of steamed jasmine rice is another symbol of a family “sticking” together. Some families celebrate with an “Eight Treasures Rice Pudding,” a stunning rice dessert that stars glutinous rice and eight toppings: candied lotus, green raisins, pine nuts, black raisins, dried dates, dried wolfberries, dried apricots, and red maraschino cherries (for luck!). (viaThe Hong Kong Cookery)
The word for garlic in Chinese is suan, which translates to “counting.” Tradition has it that those who celebrate the Lunar New Year eat lots of garlic to count all of the money they will make in the new year. It’s found in almost every dish, including stir-fried prawns. (via Dumpling Sisters)
Red is the prominent color used in the Lunar New Year and is found in the decor, food, and most notably, the red envelopes filled with money gifted to loved ones during this time. The color red is associated with good luck, fortune, and joy. A table during the Lunar New Year will be filled with red foods like crab, peking duck, shrimp, barbecue pork, and more. (via The Woks of Life)
Dinner ends with sweet, round glutinous rice balls filled with red bean paste. The round shape supposedly indicates a smooth year ahead, family reunion, and good luck! (via Chinese Healthy Cooking)
The official fruit of the new year, mandarin oranges, ju in Chinese, sounds like the word for lucky, ji. They are abundantly gifted throughout the New Year celebration.
If you want to learn more about the foods eaten around the world, and about the Lunar New Year, check out Brit + Co’s recipes on Pinterest.
This post has been updated.
Valentine's Day is almost here, and whether you're single or happily taken, you can always have an amazing time celebrating the season with your best girlfriends. We're channeling our inner Leslie Knope this Galentine's Day with 50 ideas for spending it with your squad. From gathering your girlfriends for a Galentine's Day party or embarking on an epic road trip, now is the time to plan your February weekend with the best of your friends, near and far.
Brit + Co
Pink is always a good idea when it comes to Valentine's Day decor, so for any of your Galentine's Day parties this year, DIY these Taylor Swift fuzzy dice inspired by "Cruel Summer"! (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Brit + Co
Calling all Bachelor fans! Catch up on new episodes from your favorite season by hosting a marathon viewing party. Not a Bachelor fan? Try one of these Netflix originals that are perfect for Galentine's Day. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Camp out with your BFFs in this homemade fort that's just as much fun to make as it is to relax in! It's the perfect Galentine's Day idea at home. (via Brit + Co)
Pamper yourself and your BFFs with a nail design party! Put out bottles of their favorite polishes and create a fun playlist of your favorite love songs. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
BFFs stand together even when they're single or happily taken. Host a delicious bake-off with your gals to see who can get the most creative in the kitchen! (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
For friends who live near and far, make these sweet care packages filled with their favorite things. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Play Gin Rummy with your favorite gin cocktail, dominoes, charades, whatever floats your game-loving boat! Don't forget the candy charcuterie! (via Brit + Co)
Taylor Simpson
Here are the happiest cities in the world. Grab your girls and escape winter for an amazing Galentine's Day weekend you'll never forget. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Film photography is cool again. One reason to get creative with your gals with a day of fun learning and doing. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Our epic Galentine's brunch menu has everything from red velvet heart waffles to DIY centerpieces to Galentine's card writing stations. Thisgem-inspired brunch is a fun idea, too! (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Get a jump on spring decor with an easy DIY planter party! With a few basic steps, you and your girls can create living wall decor to decorate your space for February and even all the way through the summer months. (via Brit + Co)
Shutterstock
Check out our list of 30 Valentine's Day cookie recipes and start a holiday cookie tradition, G-Day style! (via Brit + Co)
You don't have to spend your Galentine's Day party inside. If you're not near the beach, you can take a day trip instead. Some ideas include visiting a ski resort, going for a hike, or exploring that small town you've been meaning to hit. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Galentine's Day isn't just for humans. Invite your BFFs and their furry friends over for a puppy-love playdate. If you want to keep things a bit more relaxed, host a movie night and ask your friends to bring their dog beds, too.
Aww Sam
Prepare for a cozy night in with your ladies by catching up on one of the most classic flicks (or the newmusical update!). Set the tone for the night with a DIY burn book vase that doubles as a hilarious take-home treat. (via Aww Sam)
If you live on the coast, host your Galentine's Day gathering at the beach. Make sure you bring your favorite beach bag, a pair of sunglasses, and perhaps some bubbly!
You and your girls love your wine, so use the day as an excuse to host your very own rosé tasting party.
Brit + Co
An adventurous way to get outdoors and spend time with your ladies is to take advantage of the snow. Go skiing or snowboarding, or build a snow(wo)man. Then enjoy après ski cocktails!
Brit + Co
If you live in a warmer climate (or have a heated pool), throw a fun G-Day pool party complete with all of the essentials like vino, floaties, and sunhats.
Brit + Co
The best way to celebrate Galentine's Day is by honoring the creator, Leslie Knope, with a Parks and Rec marathon viewing party. Ask your ladies to supply the booze, and you can serve up the snacks and the show — or any of our other favorite feel-good TV shows.
Brit + Co
Your ladies deserve a get-together that's sure to give each gal the much-needed fun she deserves. Host a movie and dinner for your ladies, outdoors if the weather permits. Step up your party with favors, swag bags, and a night of unlimited drinks.
Shutterstock
What better way to start off your Galentine's Day shindig than by belting out a few tunes with your favorite ladies? Yep, we didn't think we'd have to tell you twice.
Brit + Co
Keep up with your health goals with an active day outdoors. It's a great way to bond with your girlfriends and with nature.
What better way to show self love than to book a much-deserved spa day with gal pals. You'll feel refreshed and recharged.
Brit + Co
Bestie live in another state? Plan an evening Zoom call and send each other dinner delivery for a fun gab session and thoughtful Galentine's Day gift. Oh, what a night!
A pom pom and lantern wall is literally the perfect way to add some texture to any Galentine's Day party! Plus, you can reuse them for upcoming bachelorette parties and baby showers.
Take a simple white table cloth (bonus points if it's paper) and paint "XOXO" across it for a personalized, romantic addition to your table.
Never underestimate the power of gold letter balloons. They're our favorite!
In lieu of flowers, fill some of your favorite vases with all kinds of red and pink candies.
If a pure candy charcuterie board is overwhelming, opt for a mix — supplement chocolate, marshmallows, and strawberries with meat and cheese for a board that's both lunch and dessert.
Mix up your Galentine's Day party mimosa bar by providing different juices and different garnishes that your guests can choose from.
Letter boards are a super easy and super fun way to add spunk to your party. Plus, they don't take up a lot of room, so that's a win-win for us!
Grapefruit juice is the perfect addition to your Galentine's Day party's pink cocktails — or to sparkling water for a low-key mocktail.
Candlesticks, jars, cake trays, oh my! The more dishes, the better as far as we're concerned.
It's easier than ever to find super cute, super sassy napkins. It's a small touch that goes a long way!
Mini bottles of champagne aren't just good for your Galentine's Day party — have everyone write a goal on their bottle, and wait to pop it until that goal is achieved!
Find heart-shaped plates to add extra romance to your tablescape.
Miniature potted plants are as cute as can be, and when they're wrapped in pink napkins? To die for.
Cupid would totally approve of these red candy kabobs.
If you have a collection of white bags for your Galentine's Day party favors, go crazy with the designs! Draw hearts, arrows, or write a little note to each of your friends.
Nothing says "I love you" like knowing your friend's favorites — which means you'll knock beauty product gift bags out of the park.
Red lollipops get a fruity upgrade when you wrap their sticks in green tape. Voilà!! The cherry on top of all your Galentine's Day festivities.
Wall envelopes are the perfect place to stash all your candy — or a super artsy Galentine's Day note.
Less is more with a Galentine's Day party favor that lets your BFF know how much she means to you.
A little bit of thoughtful wrapping makes a colorful bouquet even more beautiful than it already is!
Add tiny bows to all your champagne bottles for a true coquette party theme.
Use a pair of scalloped scissors to turn regular gift bags into something even more eye-catching!
Galentine's Day party favors don't *just* have to be candy and cards — celebrate your friends' hobbies with thoughtful gifts, too!
We'll literally never say no to chocolate, especially when it includes flower petals!
Looking for more reasons to get together with your girls this Galentine's Day? Follow us on Pinterest for even more ideas!
This article has been updated from a previous post with additional reporting by Sarah Koller and Theresa Gonzalez.
I have a confession to make — I'm obsessed with gothic horror and dark romance books. They're not your typical light-hearted rom-coms where the most drama you'll read about are family secrets or an enemies-to-lovers troupe. You may get some of these elements, but these darker tales of love aren't afraid to explore eery topics that keep you on the edge of your seat. Looking for some sultry page-turners to pick up? Here are the 15 highest-rated reads, based on Goodreads reviews!
Amazon
Adeline Reilly's choice to move back to Seattle was supposed to be exciting because her career is doing well and she's just inherited Parson's Manor from her grandmother. But being back there stirs up nightmarish things from Adeline's past. Coupled with spooky messages and other terrible instances, Adeline begins to understand she's being stalked. What's even spookier is that this has happened to Adeline's grandmother before...
She'll have to piece together clues from her grandmother's journals to understand who is stalking her and what the person wants.
Amazon
And Wendy? She'll have to ask herself if she's genuinely attracted to James or the monstrosity that lives within him.
Amazon
Amazon
Amazon
Amazon
Don't let Killian Carson's good looks fool you because a calculated and terrifying monster lies behind his pretty visage. The only person who sees him for what he is is Glyndon King...and she kind of likes it. Since Killian is the only one who appreciates her, they forsake their worlds to be together. But their desires may drown their desires and engulf everything around them in flames.
Amazon
Amazon
Leon is a part of a cult that delights in harming others, not thinking twice about his victims until he meets Rae. With her belief in the supernatural, she goes as far to summon something terrifying that can't stop stalking her. Something that finally cares enough to spare the poor soul he was meant to eradicate.
Amazon
Amazon
Amazon
Amazon
Amazon
Amazon
There's something Erika did to his comrades and he wants to make her pay for it.
Amazon
Barrington University isn't for the faint of heart because it quickly weeds the weak out. Most men who attend know that blood and violence are as normal as the sun shining on a hot summer day. However, one woman isn't afraid of this world.
She's sure she wants to be with Ryat Alexander Archer after he offered her a taste of freedom. But even he reveals his true nature, leaving her to fight to the death to escape the clutches of those at Barrington University.
In need of something else to read? Find out which new books are releasing in February!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
The Super Bowl is the perfect opportunity to dig into your favorite one-bite appetizers. From guacamole to jalapeño poppers and wings to queso, the options really do feel endless. But Super Bowl snacks aren't only about the chips and dip! If you're anything like us, you'll be too wrapped up in the game (and the halftime show, of course) to think about making a whole dinner, so your apps need to be delicious and filling.
These bite-size appetizers know how to rack up *lots* of flavor points, but also boast some health bonuses, too. Whether you're serving up something cheesy or keeping things vegan, make sure to stock up on paper plates, napkins, and themed toothpicks for your Super Bowl appetizer recipes. Then, let everyone dig in!
Brit + Co
If you and your crowd love sushi, then you can't go wrong with serving these salmon bites. They feature all the best parts of a classic roll (rice, fresh fish, and ripe avocado), with a hands-on approach that doesn't require any utensils. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Going keto is one way to really cut your carbs quickly, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up all of your guilty pleasures – especially for occasions like the Super Bowl. This simple recipe lets you keep Taco Tuesday alive, even on a specialty diet. Make them mini for a marvelous bite-size snack! (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Nothing says bite-size quite like stuffed mushrooms! Make these tiny football-inspired snacks to up your ‘shroom game. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
These one-bite appetizers are as easy as rolling up shredded chicken, cheese, and hot sauce into small tortillas and baking them for 15 minutes. Make sure you have extra ingredients on-hand – these will be done in a flash! (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Honestly, you may not even need to dip these pastry twists into any sauce. The flaky bacon-and-cheese-stuffed pastries are satisfying enough when eaten solo, but we've included a delightful beer cheese recipe to go with just in case. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
The great thing about this Super Bowl appetizer is that it is completely customizable. Fill it with fruits, dips, and edible flowers, or make it into a sweet board with honey and chocolate chips. This concept is best served with single-bite waffles and crackers! (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
If you want to serve something on the lighter side, opt for this tomato confit which features fresh tomatoes cooked in olive oil. Eat a spoonful over crunchy toast for the perfect football season finger food – or just dig into the jar with a spoon! (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Pack a bunch of veggies into one bite with these stuffed mushrooms that feature tomatoes, olives, and peppers all in one. This is one of the best Super Bowl appetizers to make since you can customize what you put in each mushroom. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Boost the flavor of vegetarian pigs-in-a-blanket by swapping bland tofu-based dogs for some scrumptious meatless sausage links instead! Ketchup and mustard are still encouraged, of course. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Panko breadcrumbs keep these baked avo fries crunchy and satisfying, but yield to a creamy avocado interior to keep your tongue guessing. Bite size appetizers don't get as good as this! (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Vegans love junk food as much as anyone else, so this dish packed with loaded potato skins should definitely be on your game day menu if you have any meatless guests coming over. But who are we kidding? Your meat-lovers will love this recipe, too. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
This one-bite appetizer combines two cuisines we love: Mexican and Greek! Turns out, spinach and phyllo pastry make great alternatives to regular flour tortillas. Once cooked, slice these 'dillas into tiny triangles so everyone gets a taste. (via Brit + Co)
Cabot Creamery
Here's an easy Super Bowl app to throw together: all you need is some cheese and super-salty pickle chips, and you have a winning appetizer! (via Cabot Creamery)
Pizzazzerie
Forget about a plain ol’ shrimp cocktail, and opt for these vibrant tostadas for your Super Bowl get-together instead! There are so many different colors, flavors, and textures that your taste buds and your stomach will love you. (via Pizzazzerie)
Diethood
Each of these marble-size meatballs packs a huge flavor punch. You’ll enjoy sweet, savory, and slightly spicy sensations all at once. Grab a few because you'll *definitely* want more than one of these one-bite appetizers. (via Diethood)
Cabot Creamery
These cauliflower wings are a great veggie alternative to chicken wings: just grab one head of cauliflower, some olive oil, and salt. Then, get your wing-like flavor when you dip into the Buffalo-style yogurt dip in this recipe. Yum! (via Cabot Creamery)
Crowded Kitchen
Super Bowl appetizers just got so much more colorful. These healthy cracker bites are easily customizable and make a gorgeous statement using different veggies among your snacky spread. (via Crowded Kitchen)
Two Spoons
Everyone should be able to enjoy your Super Bowl appetizers, so make sure you prep something for the plant-based eaters in your circle! These tofu "chicken" nuggets are delightfully crispy and super flavorful for chowing down on in between quarters. (via Two Spoons)
Give It Some Thyme
Game day favorites like sliders and meatballs join this recipe to form some truly great Super Bowl appetizers. Adding some spiced pickles on top brings an irresistible tang to each bite! (via Give It Some Thyme)
SweetPhi
A lot of Super Bowl appetizers are savory, so aim to bring a little sweetness to the table with this caramelized, nutty Chex mix! Serve it in a big bowl, or spoon some into mini muffin liners for personal portions that you + your guests can snack on throughout the game... if they last that long, that is! (via SweetPhi)
Hello Veggie
Football food doesn’t have to be heavy. Colorful roasted veggie skewers do the trick too, especially when served with a silky sesame tahini dip! You can reuse this recipe for different sports games throughout the year — just swap the veggies for what's in season. (via Hello Veggie)
Cabot Creamery
Spice things up with these cheesy, crowd-pleasing poppers! These are some of the *best* Super Bowl appetizers since they don't take super long to make and end up tasting oh-so heavenly. (via Cabot Creamery)
Averie Cooks
And the crowd goes wild! For this ooey-gooey garlic bread, of course. When it comes to one-bite Super Bowl appetizers, garlic bread just can't be beat. Everyone loves a carb! (via Averie Cooks)
Eclectic Recipes
Crispy, smoky bacon wrapped around tangy hearts of palm is an elegant Super Bowl appetizer that’s even better when served with a dip made from caramelized shallots and olives. We're salivating already! (via Eclectic Recipes)
The Cookie Rookie
These cheese balls have everything a famished sports fan could want: biscuit mix, cheese, sweet potatoes, and sausage. Consider your search for one-bite appetizers over! (via The Cookie Rookie)
The View From Great Island
Spicy feta cheese and a carefully selected variety of veggies prove that crudité doesn’t have to be boring. Your vegetarian party guests will thank you for this one! (via The View From Great Island)
Cotter Crunch
Fiery homemade sausage bites are more flavorful than what you can buy in a plastic tube, and you can cook them in the air fryer to reduce the amount of oil needed to cook them until crispy on the outside. (via Cotter Crunch)
The Original Dish
The herby honey butter that partners up with these one-bite appetizers is so good. It really elevates the snack to a higher level. Score! (via The Original Dish)
Give it Some Thyme
Transform tortellini from entrée to appetizer by marinating the cooked pasta in an herb-infused olive oil mix and threading it onto skewers along with mozzarella, peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil. This is one of the best Super Bowl appetizers that's giving elegance. (via Give it Some Thyme)
My Food Story
Keep the grape jelly and ketchup where they belong — far away from your meatballs. Instead, opt for a recipe that uses dynamic flavors like Thai curry paste, ginger, and fish sauce to season the meal. This one also combines chili flakes, soy, rice vinegar, and honey for the sticky-sweet sauce. (via My Food Story)
Savory Tooth
Impress your friends with a batch of homemade Parmesan crisps that'll use up that bag of shredded cheese in your fridge. They’re low-carb, which means you can eat… all of them, right?! (via Savory Tooth)
Half Baked Harvest
There are two things that set these juicy chicken potstickers apart. First, they’re encrusted with sesame seeds, so the bottoms are extra-crunchy. And second, they’re dunked into a sticky pomegranate sauce for an unexpected burst of fruity flavor with each bite! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Skinny Taste
Every Super Bowl party needs a tray of deviled eggs, which are usually still the first thing to go from the snack bar! Make a big batch in your Instant Pot and keep the stovetop free for whipping up a pot of your famous game day chili. (via Skinny Taste)
This Wife Cooks
Pinwheels are the ultimate Super Bowl appetizer because they're full of flavor that you can enjoy in one bite. All you need to make these easy Super Bowl appetizers are dill pickles, flour tortillas, scallions, garlic powder, vegan cream cheese, and dill seasoning. (via This Wife Cooks)
Half Baked Harvest
Instead of baking the usual fried mozzarella sticks this year, try this fried goat cheese recipe instead! The spicy sage honey sauce makes it a perfect mix of sweet and savory. Your guests won't be able to get enough! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Two Peas & Their Pod
This stuffed mushroom recipe is so good, it should be in the hall of fame for one-bite appetizers! (via Two Peas & Their Pod)
What kinds of Super Bowl appetizers will you be making this year? Let us know in the comments and check out our Pinterest for the latest food content!
This post has been updated.
