Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Appetizers - Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Bites & Caprese Skewers:

• Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese Bites: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, diced smoked salmon, and chopped fresh dill. Mix until well combined. Spread a generous amount onto toasted baguette slices.

• Caprese Skewers: Thread a cherry tomato half, a fresh mozzarella ball, and a basil leaf onto small skewers. Arrange on a platter and drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze just before serving.

2. Main Course - Herb-Crusted Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

• Prepare the Beef Tenderloin: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, and minced garlic. Rub this herb mixture generously over the entire surface of the tenderloin. Season liberally with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

• Sear the Tenderloin: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the tenderloin on all sides until a deep brown crust forms, about 2-3 minutes per side. This locks in the juices and flavor.

• Roast the Tenderloin: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 20-30 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare. Adjust roasting time for your desired doneness.

• Rest the Meat: Once cooked, remove the tenderloin from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial for juicy, tender meat.

• Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes: While the tenderloin rests, place the quartered Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly.

• Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the hot pot. Add heavy cream, unsalted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mash with a potato masher until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Dessert - Decadent Chocolate Cake with Ganache:

• Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

• In another bowl, combine buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

• Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

• Cool and Frost: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once completely cool, frost with your prepared chocolate ganache (ensure ganache is at a spreadable consistency). Garnish with fresh berries if desired.

4. Festive Drinks (Optional):

• Sparkling Cranberry Orange Fizz: Pour sparkling wine or champagne into flutes. Add a few fresh cranberries and an orange slice to each glass for a festive touch.