'Tis the season for entertaining and that means appetizers.
Whether you're the host or taking something to share at someone else's home, it's also the season when a jar of salsa and a bag of tortilla chips just won't cut it.
Nor will bland orange cubes speared on toothpicks.
What catches the eye first are bite-size morsels with big flavors and bright colors. What we crave are the oh-so-rich dips and the luscious, creamy spreads.
Does anyone say no to an assortment of crispy little tart shells holding who-knows-what savory fillings? Of course not.
Everyone adores appetizers.
And in these financially strapped times an hors d'oeuvres party makes sense.
Instead of having guests over for a three-course meal, a selection of heavy hors d'oeuvres provides a festive atmosphere while saving on the cost of a full meal.
If you're the one planning the spread you'll need three to five hearty appetizers. Fill in -- and fill up your guests -- with a couple of dips or spreads, a tray of veggies, a selection of cheeses.
For hosts, small-bite parties also help battle the tendency of many guests to root themselves in one spot. Station the food and drinks in several areas to force people to move about and mingle.
Another advantage to an appetizer party, many recipes can be assembled ahead of time, freeing you up to actually enjoy your party.
The one drawback to creating an assortment of little bites is no one ever has enough recipes for them. Here are a few more to add to your appetizer arsenal.
For more ideas go to: carrscrackers.com; Puff Pastry.com; appetizers recipe.net; easy-appetizer-recipes.com; ichef.com; and http://allrecipes.com.
* Loretto J. Hulse: 509-582-1513; lhulse@tricityherald.com; more food and wine news at www.tricityherald.com/lifestyles/food
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