As 2016 draws to a close, many people are preparing for their New Year’s celebrations. Some of these folks will go out on the town, while others will hold a get-together in their homes. But, hosting family and friends can be somewhat stressful.
So, what is it about throwing a party that induces anxiety? Aren’t parties supposed to be fun?
Yes, they are. But, as the host or hostess knows, there’s lots of work to do before the first guest arrives:
- Decide on the party menu
- Create the food list
- Shop for the groceries, supplies, etc.
- Clean the house
- Prepare the various dishes, finger foods, snacks, and beverages
- And finally, get oneself ready (sequins or sweats…you decide)
Funny, how times change. Back in the day, we simply wanted the beer to be cold and the pretzels fresh from the bag!
Nowadays, there are more expectations for throwing a party. Have you thumbed through a Martha Stewart Living magazine lately? She offers things like Smoked Trout and Garlic Cream on Rye Toasts and Amaretto-Bourbon Punch. Her appetizers include crab puffs, bacon-wrapped dates, crostini, and more. To add insult to injury, she probably raises her own trout, crabs, and pork!
The covers of magazines boast some pretty involved and expensive ingredients for those of us on a budget and lacking superior culinary skills!
If you’re one of those people, take heart. If you’re NOT one of those people but are short on time, don’t despair! We have products that make the job fast and easy, without sacrificing great taste.
Product Spotlight – Robert Rothschild Farm
(The following recipes & photos are courtesy of Robert Rothschild Farm)
Caramelized Onion Dip
Description
This dip features savory balsamic caramelized onion notes with hints of fresh parsley!
Ingredients
1 cup Sour cream
3 Tbsp. Robert Rothschild Farm Balsamic Caramelized Onion Spread ($6.99/11 oz.)
1 tsp. Parsley, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
In a medium size bowl, mix together the sour cream, Balsamic Caramelized Onion Spread, parsley, salt, and pepper. Spoon into a serving dish and serve with kettle cooked potato chips.
Hot Pepper Peach Cheese Ball
Description
The Hot Pepper Peach Preserves dresses up a classic cheese ball with delicious sweet heat!
Ingredients
16 oz. Cream cheese softened
1/2 cup Robert Rothschild Farm Hot Pepper Peach Preserves ($6.99/12.4 oz.)
2 Tbsp. Onion, minced
2 cups Monterey Jack cheese finely shredded, divided
Instructions
Combine the cream cheese, preserves, onion, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Shape into a ball with lightly greased hands. Roll in the remaining cheese and chill until serving. Just before serving, top with Hot Pepper Peach Preserves. Serve with crackers or toasted bread, as desired.
Spinach Hors d’oeuvre
Ingredients
1 box Filo Shells
1 jar Robert Rothschild Farm Artichoke Spinach Dip ($7.99/10.3 oz.)
Cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
Fresh basil
Instructions
Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F. Fill filo shell with Artichoke Spinach Dip. Bake for 8 minutes. Top with cherry tomato slice and fresh basil. Serve immediately.
IN A HURRY? If you’re looking for even quicker recipes than those above, The Rothschild Dips/Spreads can be eaten straight from the jar with no added ingredients…they are “simply” delicious!
Stop in and see all the Robert Rothschild products, as well as other exclusive brands to make your next party a foodie extravaganza!
The Happy Eggplant Gourmet Food & Kitchen Shoppe 