Texan Magazine
By Lisa Dante
Need to whip up some appetizers or easy party food for the holidays? In a matter of minutes you can create these bite-sized quick snacks. The bonus element here is that they are so festive in their presentation, that you’re creating holiday décor at the same time! I know what you’re thinking….putting a grape and a piece of cheese on a toothpick isn’t exactly groundbreaking.
But look closely.
The secret is: Don’t use ordinary plain toothpicks. Use knotted bamboo picks. They’ll really up your game. I found a package of 100 for less than $4.00 at Walmart.
Another idea is to add sprigs of fresh rosemary to the charcuterie that you’ve arranged in a circle and…voila…. an edible holiday wreath. You can also arrange your crackers, cheeses, fruits and meats into a triangle to form a Christmas tree.
Table Setting
Create a beautiful table centerpiece from things you already have around the house. For example, place several Christmas ornaments along with a few apples or oranges in a glass bowl. You could add some pine cones and unshelled nuts such as walnuts or pecans to take it over the top. Just use your imagination. There really aren’t any rules, only ideas.
To create festive Canapés, shave cucumbers with the large blade on the side of a cheese grater, then skewer and carve stars for the top from red bell peppers. They’ll become the focal point of your appetizer table.
If you’re really pressed for time, and who isn’t during the busy holidays,
a serving dish in the shape of a star filled with an assortment of whatever finger food you like, quickly becomes a festive part of your feast.
With these items on your table, you just might be Santa’s first stop!
