For my closet girlfriends, friendship is the real present every December. As sure as the first snow will fall, we will gather in each others’ kitchens with a steno pad and glass of wine, prepping for our big holiday meal.

Like the gifts our children expect from Santa, we busy moms will count on Safeway to deliver easy-to-make, affordable dishes that even the pickiest eater at our table can enjoy.

Some items can’t be completely put together until the day of the big feast, like this Pesto & Tomato Crostini. But other items we can completely make in advance such as:

* Honey-Roasted Pork and Nectarine Kabobs: What can go wrong with the delicious combo of citrus and meat? The fact that it’s on a skewer makes it so much more enjoyable!

* Cookies on a Stick: These colorful and delicious treats are so eye-catching. They are fun to make and will keep the kids busy while you make plans for your big holiday meal.

With so many appetizers and main course dishes to choose from, I feel confident that my table will dazzle with delicious choices for everyone. And with all the time and money I will save with Safeway, I can even decorate with these festive and fun candy cake vases. There’s other equally adorable, simple-to-construct Festive Projects to choose from as well. I just hope I don’t eat all my supplies before they’re done!

Brought to you by Safeway

Tags | appetizers, best recipes ever, christmas, easy to make appetizers, holidays, pork, quick and easy recipees, recipes