Entertaining in a Hurry and on a Budget

Inexpensive Snacks, Appetizers and Hors d'oeuvres

Dec 6, 2008 Sandra Webster

Whether it is a planned office get together, or just family and friends enjoying the holidays, food is a big part of the next several months. It is possible to provide delicious and creative fare without emptying your wallet.

Hot Bean Dip

• 1can of refried beans.
• 1package of shredded cheese for tacos, or nachos.

1. Open the beans and place them in a microwave safe bowl and heat as directed.
2. Sprinkle with as much shredded cheese as desired.
3. Serve with a bag of tortilla chips.

Beans may be reheated (carefully) and more cheese added if needed.

Pepperoni and Cheese

• 1 package pre-sliced pepperoni
• 1 or more kiinds of block cheese. Two kinds would be great, 3 would be plenty

1. Arrange the pepperoni and cheese(s) on a decorative plate.
2. Serve with crackers.

Shrimp Spread (a little more expensive but worth it)

• 1block of cream cheese
• 1 jar of cocktail sauce
• 1 can of tiny, or small shrimp.

1. Rinse and drain the shrimp well.
2. Open the cream cheese and place it on a decorative plate.
3. Spread the drained shrimp over the cream cheese.
4. Pour the cocktail sauce over the shrimp & cream cheese.
5. Serve with crackers (you will need to provide a knife or spreader for guests-cream cheese is to firm to just dip the crackers)

Chips and Dips

One of the easiest and cheapest dishes you could possibly make is chips and dips.

• a bag of plain potato chips, preferably wavy so they don’t break when dipped.
• 1 16 ounce container of sour cream
• 1 packet dried onion soup mix.

Mix 1 16 ounce container of sour cream with 1packet of dried onion soup mix. Stir well and chill before serving.

If you are in a hurry, just buy pre-made dip from the dairy department in the local grocery store.

Holiday Punch

This punch is suitable for children and also may be served (spiked) to adult guests. Just don’t get the pitchers mixed up!

• 1-2 liter bottle of ginger ale
• 1-bottle of fruit punch 64 oz if possible or measure

1. Mix the 2 liquids together and add ice.
2. Vodka or other preferred alcohol may be added to adult drinks.

The recipes above are quick, easy and inexpensive. Using disposable plates and cups will also speed up preparation and clean up but do add to the cost and should be disposed of properly. If you are a student on a budget, you may even want to use your student credit card to purchase your supplies. Just don’t go over your limit!