During the holidays, everyone ends up in the kitchen looking for munchies to nibble while they sip. Whether you’re in need of a party-pleasing appetizer spread for your guests to savor until the ball drops, or you’re scouting out starters for friends to enjoy pre-feast, try these quick and easy nibbles from Dish’s Test Kitchen and think outside the box for your next soiree.
Italian Party Cups
Chop mozzarella into ramekins, with about ½ cup of cheese and a sprinkle of Italian herbs. Place in the oven for 10 minutes, and take out when the mozzarella is melty throughout and crispy on the top. This is a satisfying snack reminiscent of pizza without the crust and protein-friendly.
Cheese Tray
Craft a cheese tray with Holman Ranch Olive Oil, French herbs and fresh cranberry sauce. Arrange your favorite cheeses on a cutting board with homemade crockpot cranberry sauce, and drizzle with cold-pressed extra virgin Holman Ranch Olive Oil—delicious and fresh, with a nice earthy taste. Sprinkle some French herbs atop and serve with crackers—this always makes a delicious statement.
Crockpot Pepper & Onion Cream Cheese
Harry & David’s makes a delicious savory pepper and onion relish, which is perfect for meats, cheeses and dips. This is normally served cold, but I tried it in the crockpot and it’s even better. Combine a jar of pepper and onion relish with two blocks of cream cheese in a small crockpot. Stir and serve when warm and blended with crisp crackers and veggies.
Onion Tartlet with Caramelized Onions, Pear, Gruyere, Walnuts and Cranberries
For Thanksgiving, I took the fancy route and sliced up pie crust and topped them with caramelized onions, slices of pear and cheese, cranberries and walnuts. Then, they were baked at 350 degrees for a five minutes. These ended up being very savory and satisfying.
I think I started a new appetizer tradition! What do you like to serve to your hungry brood? What appetizers do you serve to the family each year?
- Appetizer Collage: Nina Lea Photography
- Remaining Photos: Christine Tarlecki
