A good selection of appetizers should have varying sensations: cool, hot, spicy, crunchy, zesty and savory. Choose recipes with ingredients which compliment and contrast each other. Also be sure you use recipes with great eye appeal: texture, color and height.

 

Serve appetizers appropriately for their size, cooking technique and genre. Be sure to provide the appropriate utensils for each dish. Having spoons, knives or forks on hand will help guests move quickly through the line and take the appropriate amount of food. Using smaller plates is a great way to control the amount of food guests will take. Smaller plates will keep guest coming back for more while larger plates allow guests to fill their plates once.

Keep cold items cold and hot items hot. This idea is vital to preserving the flavor and integrity of the food. By serving foods in small batches, you are keeping the appetizers at their appropriate temperatures and fresh for everyone to enjoy.

Each recipe comes from a certain genre or style of cooking. Asian style dishes like potsickers and spring rolls stand out when served family style in large bowls, long trays or on bamboo mats. Bringing the décor and food genre together creates an ambiance your guests will enjoy.

 

Appetizers come to life with stylized garnishes. Garnishes are any part of an item which highlights the color, theme, texture and aroma of the dish. When looking for potential appetizer recipes, think about the overall presentation. Dose the recipe feature color, height and texture? If not, feel free to embellish with fresh herbs, oils or other condiments. Serving appetizers on decorative trays, napkins or buffet style presentations can take basic appetizers to the next level.

 

No matter which recipes you choose for your party, use the tips above to choose appetizers which reflect a theme, décor and flavors you desire.

 

1 package Buttermilk biscuit dough

½ cup cream cheese

¼ cup reduced fat mayonnaise or ranch flavored salad dressing

½ teaspoon dill

½ teaspoon rosemary

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ cup chopped spinach, fresh or frozen (well drained)

¼ cup shredded carrot

¼ cup broccoli florets

¼ cup cauliflower florets

¼ cup zucchini or summer squashs

 

Spray a 12-inch pizza pan with nonstick spray coating.

For crust, place 7 biscuits in the pan near the edge forming a circle; place 1 biscuit in the center. Using fingers press the biscuits into the pan to form a single crust.

Bake in a 375° oven for 12-15 minutes or till light brown. Cool in pan.
Meanwhile, in a medium mixing bowl stir together cream cheese, mayonnaise or salad dressing, dill, onion, garlic powder and spinach. Stir until well combined.
Spread the cream cheese mixture onto the cooled crust. Arrange vegetables atop cream cheese mixture. To serve, cut into wedges. Serve immediately. Or cover and chill for up to 24 hours. 

 

Buffalo Chicken Wings
Serves:4