Posted by Tastefully Simple on January 25, 2023
Snacks. Appetizers. Hors d’ouevres. Nibblins’. Whatever you call them, party food is often the best part of any gathering. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Tie It All Together
However, some types of gatherings – for instance, Big Game Day watch parties, birthdays and graduations – naturally lend themselves to a theme. Foods might be chosen to match team colors or, even easier, served in dishes and trays in the chosen colors.
Fun idea: Feeling really creative? Design a charcuterie board with foods arranged in the shape of a team mascot, graduation mortarboard or other image connected with your theme.
Opposites Attract
Foods with different characteristics can complement each other and provide a nice variety of sensory experiences for your guests. Include both hot and cold snacks, salty and sweet, spicy and blander offerings.
Pro tip: Incorporate the “opposites attract” principle in single foods, like popcorn mixes of plain, caramel and cheese popcorn, salted caramel or chocolate.
Consider Customizable
People love to make their own choices from a variety of options. Offer different flavorings to shake on plain popcorn, for instance, or create a mini taco bar with pick-your-own toppings.
Easy snack option: simply offering several different varieties of dips and dippers allows guests to make a snack plate that caters to their preferences.
Be Inclusive
By offering a variety of options – chips AND fresh fruit, bite-sized smoked sausage AND fresh veggies – you can ensure your guests are likely to find something for them, no matter what their special needs or preferred lifestyle.
Recommendation: If you want to really play it safe, ask invited guests before the party if there are specific issues (e.g., allergies, salt restrictions) that can help guide your choices in what to serve.
Tailor to Time and Place
Will your snacks be served before a meal? If so, lighter fare to sharpen the appetite makes the most sense (a charcuterie board with emphasis on fresh fruits, veggies, cheese cubes, nuts, etc. might be a good choice).
Are you entertaining over a period where a meal would usually be served? Offer heartier fare like cocktail meatballs, crudites and richer desserts.
Will your guests be noshing while engaging in energetic activity like a sports-watching party? ‘Avoid snacks that can cause a mess on clothing or furnishings if spilled.
You Do You
Perhaps the most important consideration in planning your party snacks is your own comfort level. How much time will you realistically have to prepare the food? What is your personal style and level of expertise in the kitchen? In the end, your guests will be happy when they see that you feel good and relaxed about what you serve.
When you’re ready to start planning for your next get-together, here are some easy party snack recipes to consider:
Dynamite Dips
A variety of sweet and savory dips can be the foundation of a sensational snack table.
Sensational Sweets
Remember the sweeter side of snacking!
Hot Bites
Warm snacks don’t have to be a hassle. Try these easy, pleasey options.
Fresh and Fabulous
Nothing beats the flavor of fresh fruits and veggies.
Special Occasion Snacks
Whether you’re celebrating Independent Day, Big Game Day, Christmas Day or any special day, snacks are essential.
Marvelous Mixes
Sweet or savory, snack mixes hit the spot at any gathering.
Looking for even more easy party snack ideas? Check out our thousands of simple and delicious snack recipes here!
– kgm