Holiday parties are an ideal excuse to invite over friends, get dressed up and eat yummy food. I love to play host because it gives me a chance to show off my culinary skills and provide healthy options, while experimenting with recipes.

Last year, my honey baked ham was a hit, but my homemade biscuits and a doughy appetizer were not. Thankfully, the guests were forgiving. This year, I’m really going to play it simple to save money and calories, and prevent the stress.

Cheese, Crackers and Other Appetizers

Everyone loves cheese, crackers and dips. Why over complicate things when people will be just as happy with simple solutions? Pick up a variety of Mini Babybels, unwrap them, slice into quarters and place on a wooden cutting board with whole grain crackers. Add my favorite cheese compliment, fig jam, to spread on the crackers. You can also provide your guests with a salty alternative from the olive bar at your local grocery store or peel seasonal clementines and serve as individual wedges.

If you want to get creative, grab some prosciutto, asparagus and Laughing Cow wedges. Spread the wedges on pieces of prosciutto and wrap around the lightly steamed asparagus.

Finger Foods

Stick to small finger foods like mini sandwiches or things that can be easily eaten off of a wooden stick (skewer or tooth pick).

Try making cheesy wheels or veggie spring rolls for finger friendly wraps. All you really need are Laughing Cow wedges and tortillas. Get creative and add what you have on hand if you are trying to save money. Turkey, ham or all veggie – take your pick. Add toppings sparingly, roll up the tortillas and cut into bite size pieces.

Another simple and affordable way to serve meat at a party is with skewers. Chicken thighs are cheaper than breasts and are easy to cut up into pieces.  Try marinating in Italian dressing or a Thai satay. Set oven to broil and cook 3 inches from heat for 10-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes, until chicken is no longer pink in center. Make sure the skewers are soaked in water before you place them in the oven.

Delegate

Ask guests to bring dessert or favorite drink of choice to alleviate costs and unnecessary stress. Most guests ask what they can bring so be prepared to have an answer.

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