Appetizing Values for the Holidays- Delicious Appetizers for Less
Posted on 09 December 2009 by Manny
December 25th is quickly approaching. While I’m not worried about the main course or side dishes – can everyone please say “Safeway Chicken Pot Pie & Walla Walla Salmon?” – I was a little hesitant about the appetizers. I’m good with the basic crowd-pleasing dishes, but I’m not what you’d call an innovative hors d’oeuvre dazzler. Veggies and ranch dressing? Not a problem. A seven-layer dip? But holiday-inspired fare that generations will remember for years to come? Soooo not my forté. Thanks to Safeway’s amazing array of appetizer recipes, I just might surprise my guests this year.
They have loads of great choices. But like a truly smart shopper at a shoe sale, I finally (and not without great hand wringing) narrowed it down to four choices:
1. Baked Nacho Platter – With its crunchy chips, decadent sour cream, and plenty of melted cheese hiding the beans, green chilies and green olives, my 7-year old won’t even know he’s getting his veggies. (Sneaky? Maybe. But it’s only because I care!)
2. Baked Sweet Potato Sticks – This surprising treat is making its holiday debut this year, and I know it’ll be a hit. With the classic taste of sweet potatoes and easy-to-eat crispy strips, it’s a sweet, healthy alternative to traditional French fries.
3. Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Dill Aioli – My Italian in-laws traditionally bake fish every holiday, so I’m sure to earn points with these baked – not fried – crab cakes. I’ll just have to make sure Grandma doesn’t grab them all. (But who could blame her?)
4. Holiday Cheer Caprese Skewers – Move over, candy canes, there’s a healthier alternative this year! This is a modern take on the classic caprese recipe: Skewers of cheese, tomatoes and basil create a culinary color explosion of green, red and white. Festive!
As if all of these easy-to-follow recipes weren’t enough, Safeway always provides weekly specials and email savings, not to mention their grocery delivery service – free for first time users.
With all those savings, Santa might bring the kids some extra toys this year. Or maybe I’ll cook up some additional appetizers, like Safeway’s Baked Parmesan Dip. After all, while it was Safeway that made me a better cook this holiday season, I developed a passion for great food all on my own.
Brought to you by Safeway
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Tags | christmas recipes, crab cake recipe, holiday ideas, hosting parties, nacho platter recipe, sweet potato sticks, top best holiday appetizers, what to make for christmas
