Party food can be a big decision. Set a maximum dollar amount that you are willing to spend before you hit the grocery store. This will help you weigh the options you have to feed your party guests. Also, keep in mind the group you are serving before purchasing items. Snacks do not have to be burdensome or time-consuming, so buy tasty and quick food items. Does this Spark an idea?
Dips
Dips are an ideal party snack. Available in a wide assortment, they can be homemade or bought. Cheese dip is the most popular because it rages with flavor and fits in with any menu. If feeding a large crowd, use a slow cooker to melt cheese and keep it warm. Stir before serving a crowd to check thickness. If it is too thick, add milk while stirring.
Salsa is also an ideal choice for a party. Tomatoes, chiles, onions and peppers are key ingredients to all salsas, but no two are the same. Whether chunky, mild, blended or spicy, salsa is usually a hit with party goers when served with a side of tortilla chips.
Party Trays
Preparing for a party can be a hassle. If looking for a shortcut, buy party trays to feed the guests. Your grocery store should have trays of sandwich meat, vegetables, fruits and cheeses. If you don't see trays available, talk to someone in the deli section. In most cases you can make your own; the cost will be based on the size of the tray selected. For special items like chicken wings, quesadilla wedges or sub sandwiches, check with nearby restaurants. Places like Chili's, Applebee's and Subway each have party trays available with appetizers and finger food.
Grab-and-Go Snacks
The best party snacks are the grab-and-go type. Put food items like candy, chips and cookies out beside napkins to let people grab a handful. If looking for something different, make a trail mix. Combine things like dried fruit, pretzels, nuts, crackers and chocolate chips and place them in a plastic bag or container with a lid. Then, add a cheddar, barbecue, ranch or cinnamon seasoning to the mix and shake it up to give additional flavor.
Meats
Quick snacks don't have to be boring. Add a kick to your line up by adding items cocktail sausage links, chicken wings and chicken tenders to the table. Cocktail sausage links are low maintenance and ideal when set on low in a slow cooker with barbecue sauce. Chicken fingers can serve as a backup plan, attracting guests with mild tastes or those timid to try new foods. In addition, pizza is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Try to make it fair when choosing toppings. Either ask guests their preferences, order a variety or choose a mainline pie like plain cheese to avoid complaints.
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