Another Holiday Is Coming....

Hello,

Another holiday is right around the corner.  It's either a "YIPPEE!!" or a "OH NO!!".  I am sort of in the middle with an "ALREADY!!".  This time of the year is different for many people.  Some are celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, and some nothing at all.  For years I didn't celebrate anything at all because of childhood religion.  Today with 3 little ones of my own we celebrate Christmas, because of an ex-husband.

"Cheese with Fresh Fruit"

Many people have parties and celebrate with family and friends before the actual "BIG" day.  So if you are going to a party and plan on bringing something  what do you bring?  You can bring a platter of cookies, fruitcake, etc.  How about making your own trays of appetizers?

Creating appetizer trays are great if you are the one doing the hosting as well.  These things are easy to prepare and does not require you to go to a business and buy it for a ridiculous price.  Did I just cut down on my work load at my job, by telling people do not come to me?  I doubt it because no matter what, there will always be those people who can afford it who would rather have someone else do the work for them.  I am just fortunate enough to be able to do it for myself.  Its a good thing because I can not afford to pay someone else to do it.  

"Cheese with Dried Fruits"

This time of year I make a lot of vegetable platters, cheese trays, fruit platter, and my least favorite antipasto platters, for those who can afford it.   Many people think that its hard to put everything together on a tray and make it look nice.   I find it best not to fuss over it, but just to put it on there.  It turns out to be very nice when I am finished. 

"Fresh Fruit Platter"

When I prepare a cheese tray I like to use 2 ounces of cheese per party guest.  Use a variety of cheese something soft, hard, and medium texture.  Add some fresh grapes and strawberries along with some dried fruit.  When I create a vegetable tray I like to use 2-3 ounces per party guest.   A vegetable tray can go beyond the carrots and celery, not saying that they are not allowed.  How about adding some blanched asparagus, sugar snaps, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, red and yellow peppers, spring onions, radishes, cucumber, etc.  The possibilities are endless.  Just be creative!  My favorite tray, because it is the tastiest to me is a fruit platter.  I like to use 4 ounces per party guest for this platter.  Using only fresh fruit is best, pineapple (keeping the top for decorating the platter and holding skewers), honeydew melon, watermelon, cantaloupe, kiwi, grapes (on the vine), strawberries, blueberries, etc.  What ever fruit in season is where you should begin. 

I hope you all enjoy and save some money this year by making your own trays.  Look forward to other appetizer ideas coming soon.

Mo