Dear Culinary Vixen,
I'm invited to numerous office parties and open house type events where I'm asked to bring a dish to share. Most of these events aren't really potluck meals. The hosts are usually looking for an appetizer or snack dish.
A lot of people bring a bag of chips and a dip from the local Trader Joe's.This isn't my style. I like to cook, but I'm just out of ideas. I've done the guacamole, salsa, artichoke-parmesan dip thing. I'm looking for new ideas that are creative, not too difficult and that travel well.
Can you give me some ideas?
Thanks,
Sue,
Rancho Cucamonga CA
Sue,
Lets' see if we can give you a list of some great noshes that will make your culinary talents shine!
Spiced Nuts - This may sound a little simple, but the truth is most people love nuts. They can be sweet or salty, spicy or mild, ethnic or all American. They can be prepared ahead of time and even dressed up into a hostess gift with a nice jar and some ribbon. Here are a few links to some good choices:
- Sugared Spiced Nuts
- Herbed Spiced Nuts
- Spiced Nuts
- Sweet Spiced Nuts
- Spicy Honey Roasted Peanuts
Hot and Spicy Nuts
Not your normal Bean Dips - There are two bean dips I use on a regular basis. One is a Tuscan White Bean dip, which is great with pita triangles, crackers and all types of vegetables. It's also vegan which makes it a good choice for serving to ANYONE.
The second is a Mexican Layer Dip. But wait, it's not your regular bean dip, I promise.I use a special topping that makes mine unique and addictive. Really, try it, you won't be disappointed.
Other dips for vegetables - Many a great vegetable dip can start with thickened yogurt. Most people associate yogurt with low-fat healthy food, but I must confess, my best yogurt dishes use full-fat yogurt as a base. It makes a big difference in the texture and flavor of a dip. Of course, it's much more rich and creamy! Once you've drained your yogurt in cheesecloth for a day or two, you need only add a few spices or herbs to make something fabulous. Add shredded cucumber, some crushed garlic, oregano or dill and lemon for a Greek treat. Add some chutney, curry powder, garlic powder and salt for an Indian inspired dish. For the mild at heart, add your favorite ranch dressing mix.
A block of cheese and... - A simple block of cream cheese can
Go To Page: 1 2
