Dazzling, Dip-filled, Holy Holiday Appetizers

The holiday season is a time of family, friends, and feasting. It can be glorious if you aren’t gorging on the over-done standard appetizer fare. These foods likely won’t even accommodate all your guests, given today’s reality of numerous dietary restrictions. Add some sparkle to your culinary creations by rethinking the standard veggies and dip or retro stuffed eggs and bacon wrapped chestnuts.You can make your own dazzling dips or simply jazz up your favorite store bought offerings. Try fresh herbs, spices, and infused olive oils such as basil, lemon, or chili. Offer them up in any or all of these veggie platforms and serving suggestions.

Roasted Beet Hummus with bell pepper slabs and Rosemary Hummus on red cabbage tacos!

Guacamole with lemon zest & Sundried Tomato Pesto

Roasted Bell Peppers with Kalamata Olives Want to really wow your guests? Serve a “small plates” dinner by plating a variety of your selections on or in interestingly shaped white rectangle or square plates, mini bowls, and oriental spoons.Turn your holiday celebrations into the talk of the town with a little creative spirit and a playful approach to displaying (plating) your options.Here are four key tips to make it look like your party was professionally catered:1. Choose great serving platters, plates, glasses, etc.2. Artfully arrange the foods3. Pay attention to the color combos4. Garnish with fresh herbs, colorful spices, infused oils, chopped nuts or seeds, etc.