Editor’s note: This column was originally published in The Kewanee Voice print edition, the Holiday Herald.
When planning a Christmas or New Year’s gathering with friends, an appetizer party is one of the most fun and stress-free ways to celebrate. Everyone can sample a little bit of everything, and you don’t have to worry about timing a big meal. These recipes are simple to make, crowd-pleasing and festive enough to feel special for the holidays.
Each recipe I chose brings its own flavors and style. It covers creamy, savory, comfort to light and fresh. Together, they make a perfect holiday spread. Add in the sparkling drink, and you’ve got everything you need for a cozy and cheerful evening.
These recipes will bring sparkle and flavor to any celebration. Whether celebrating Christmas with family or ringing in the New Year with friends, this cheerful combination will make the night feel extra special.
From my kitchen to yours, Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!
Serves 10
Ingredients
2 lb. frozen homestyle meatballs
1 can (14 oz.) jellied cranberry sauce
1 c. barbecue sauce
1 T. Worcestershire sauce
1/4 t. red pepper flakes
Instructions
Add meatballs to a slow cooker. In a bowl, whisk cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire and red pepper flakes until smooth. Pour over the meatballs and stir to coat. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours, stirring once or twice. Keep warm for serving.
Serves 12
Ingredients
1 pint cherry tomatoes
8 oz. fresh mozzarella pearls
1 bunch fresh basil
2 T. olive oil
2 t. honey (optional)
Balsamic glaze
Toothpicks
Instructions
Thread a tomato, mozzarella pearl and basil leaf onto each toothpick. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Add a small drizzle of honey if you want a sweeter finish.
Serves 12
Ingredients
24 Medjool dates
12 to 16 slices bacon, cut in half
1/4 c. brown sugar
Instructions
If dates have a pit, remove before starting. Wrap each date with half a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Roll lightly in brown sugar. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes or until the bacon is crisp.
Serves 10
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 c. sour cream
2 c. shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
2 green onions, sliced
Crackers for serving
Instructions
Mix cream cheese, sour cream and cheddar until blended. Stir in bacon and green onions. Spread in a small baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes until warm and bubbly.
Serves 15
Ingredients
1 box frozen mini phyllo shells (usually 15 per box)
4 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 to 1 1/2 t. garlic powder
1/3 c. hot pepper jelly
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Arrange the phyllo shells on a baking sheet. In a small bowl, stir the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Mix in the garlic powder. Spoon a small dollop of cream cheese into each phyllo shell. Add about a teaspoon of hot pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes until the cups are lightly crisp and the filling is warmed through. Sprinkle with parsley or green onion if you want them to look extra festive. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serves 6
Ingredients
1 bottle Prosecco
3 c. cranberry juice
1/2 c. simple syrup
1 c. fresh cranberries
Fresh rosemary sprigs
Instructions
Fill glasses halfway with cranberry juice and simple syrup. Top with Prosecco. Add a few fresh cranberries and a small rosemary sprig for garnish.
