5 Appetizer Buffet Tips

Nothing gets you in the holiday spirit better than a good buffet of appetizers and the company of friends on a blustery December night. So they’ve asked you to bring a dish to share-you’re worried about what to take that will be a hit, how to take it and if you’ll have time to make something worthy of oohs and aahs.

1. Keeping it simple is a great rule of thumb. In general, most party-goers will appreciate your skimping on the additions of garlic and jalapeno. Unless you have time to make a back-up dish, stick to something you’ve made before and know it turns out successfully. Save the experimenting for your family.

2. Complete an ingredient pre-check several days in advance to save a last-minute headache.

3. As you prepare your dish to be shared, consider how your guests will serve themselves and consume the product. I know I prefer bite-sized (realistically-bite-sized) munchies. Adding a toothpick or nestling the bite into a mini cupcake paper makes the line move along quickly.

4. In the spirit of keeping things simple, if time does not allow you make a truly homemade dish, you can still be creative. Grab a container of premade cream puffs, put them on a pretty plate and drizzle melted chocolate over them. Pick up pre-cubed cheese and mix red and green grapes among them on a serving tray with tongs. If you’re driving to the party as you’re reading this article, then grab a container of strawberries and spray whipped topping.

5. A host and hostess gift is a considerate thought. After all, they did have to clean before and after and prepare their home for the gathering. A scented candle, giftable food or Christmas tree ornament are heartfelt gifts that will be enjoyed after the party.