#quick appetizers

One minute appetizer recipes- Watkins

Cucumber & Dill Dip 3 tbsp/45 mL Watkins Cucumber & Dill Snack & Dip Seasoning 1 cup/250 mL sour cream Mix together. Serve with vegetables or use as a sandwich or bagel spread. ================================================= Salsa & Sour Cream Dip 3 tbsp/45 mL Watkins Salsa & Sour Cream Snack & Dip Seasoning 1 cup/250 mL sour cream Mix together. Serve with chips or as a spread on flour…

I love this dip because it is delicious, packed with protein and omega 3 fatty acids, and can be prepared in a flash when I can’t find time to make it to the grocery store. The combination of the sardines, garlic, and parsley make this spread an anti-inflammatory powerhouse. This recipe can also be made as a low-mercury alternative to tuna salad.

Photo credit: Michelle Wozniak

Serves 4-6 

Ingredients:

One small jar capers (68 g) capers packed in vinegar, rinsed.

1 Cup parsley, roughly chopped

2 tsp coconut vinegar

½ tsp salt

2 cloves garlic, chopped. 

2 cans of sardines packed in water and drained (I try to avoid the ones packed in olive oil b/c the olive oil is often rancid and can compromise the Omega 3 fatty acids of the fish)

Red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.

¾ cup olive oil.

 Add all ingredients except for the spices to a blender and pulse until blended. Alternatively, for a smoother dip blend until the dip reaches a creamy consistency. For a chunkier consistency (the method you see in the photo), chop all ingredients separately, add them to a desired serving bowl, and mix them together. Once dip has reached desired consistency, mix in the spices.  Serve with sliced veggies such as cucumbers, bell peppers, celery, and carrots and or with toasted bread of choice (I always go with spelt or sourdough, ideally sourdough-spelt).

Photo Credit: Michelle Wozniak

Too many of us have little time to sit down and actually prepare a large number of party food appetizers for an event that we are hosting. That does not mean you need to turn to catering, there are some different things you can do that will give you a quick fix, without having to invest too much money into the process. It is as simple as mixing together items that are already prepared. For example, if you want a quick and easy dip, you would simply need to take some processed cheese and chili and quickly heat them up and serve the dip hot. The goal here is being able to get some party food appetizers on the table and get back to mingling with the guests. There is no need to spend more than a few minutes creating any of these delicious items either. Another great appetizer that is really easy to make is meatballs. Toss them in a Crockpot with a little chili sauce and grape jelly and let it simmer over the course of a few hours. When it is time to feed your guests, simply throw a toothpick in them and serve them hot. Of course, you will always be able to do the quick and cracker and cheese platters if you find that you are pressed for time at any point. What you will want to be sure of is that these items are arranged in a manner where neither the crackers of the cheese pick up the flavors of the other items. Do not feel bad about taking the premade route for your appetizers either. Since you are pressed for time, locating recipes for party food appetizers that allow you to make these quick dishes is a great way to save time, yet win over the defined tastes of your friends. In fact, there is a good chance that most people you share your food with will have no idea that you combined these items. Keep in mind that there are some things you can do to help cover up the fact that you use premade items if you want to put a little effort into the process. For example, you can garnish the dish with fresh parsley or other herbs and it will give them the look and feeling that you made them fresh for your guests. No matter what dishes you make, just be sure that you put some effort into them. Even when you are combining ingredients quickly, taste will still be a factor. Take small samples and adjust the dish until it tastes remarkable and impresses your guests. The process is simple and will result in some amazing dishes being created and your guests will always thank you for the quality. Everyday items can be considered appetizers and visitors will always enjoy having something to munch on. Why not create a list of some great party food appetizers you can make for surprise guests?