CProbes

Appetizers served at parties couldn’t be easier when dip recipes and spreads are on the menu. I have never failed to get rave reviews when I make my hot Artichoke Dip recipe. Served with toasted baguettes or toasted pita chips, topped with seasoned bread crumbs, or Parmesan cheese and browned for an appealing presentation. A close cousin to Artichoke dip and also a huge hit is Hot Bacon Dip. It is ridiculously easy to make and people love it. I created my recipe one day when I was trying to come up with a dip from foods that I already had in the house. It was an instant winner. I garnish the top with crumbled bacon and it is instantly recognized by my guests. I usually serve this creamy dip with an assortment of crackers. Both dips can be made a day ahead, covered and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake them.

You’ll find that people have their interest peaked when you set out something new on the table as the evening progresses. You don’t want to stand by the oven all night, so be prepared to serve some cold appetizers. Think about a Spinach Dip, served from a bread bowl. The bread removed to create the bowl, cut up into chunks, is perfect to serve with this dip. Another cold dip option is Shrimp dip. This dip has a pretty salmon color, with nice pieces of cooked shrimp throughout. I present this dip with fresh vegetables like sliced red peppers, zucchini, broccoli, cauliflower, and snow peas. You’ll want to spend time and enjoy your guests, so pour yourself a glass of wine and relax a bit.

I have to admit I am pretty tough on my kitchenware and serving dishes. No matter what a plate may say on the bottom about its usage, I still pop it in the microwave to reheat my leftovers. Of course, I’ve learned the hard way what a bad idea that is. Too much rapid heat on plates that are not meant to be heated creates a lot of crackles in the finish and often unseen cracks deep in the plate or bowl itself. The next thing you know you go to pour some soup into a bowl only to have it break open all over your clean counter top. Then you’re spending time cleaning up the mess and wondering what you’ll be eating instead of the soup! I finally bought a good Glass Pyrex Bowl Set that is great for both storing and microwaving my food. Read the rest of this entry »