A Winter Party in "1-2-3"

No doubt we've all had our share of holiday hoopla by the time January rolls around. From Thanksgiving to New Year's, our schedules are packed with parties and filled with festivities.

But, then it hits - the winter doldrums. Yes, we can all appreciate a break, but after a few weeks, if you're like me, I'm in need of a small soiree! Some sips, some nibbles and the chance to unwind with friends and family.

Enter the "1-2-3" Winter Party. Hosting beverages and light fare can be, literally, as easy as 1-2-3. What follows is a sampling of some of my favorite appetizers, each with only 3 ingredients. 

BACON WRAPPED DATES
24 large dates
+ 12 slices of bacon, cut in half lengthwise (24 strips, one for each date)
+ 1/3 cup of goat cheese (log or crumbles)

Slit the dates and remove the pits, if not already pitted. Stuff each date with cheese and wrap with a bacon strip. Secure with a toothpick as needed. Bake for 20 minutes at 375 degrees. Finish briefly under the broiler to further crisp the bacon, if desired.

STRAWBERRY BRIE BRUSCHETTA
1 small baguette
+ 1 pint of strawberries
+ 1 small wheel of brie (8 oz)

Slice the baguette and top each with a slice of brie. Toast in the oven on high heat or under the broiler until browned. Remove from the oven, top with sliced strawberries and serve.

CHOCOLATE RASPBERRY CUPS
1 box of phyllo cups or chocolate dessert cups
+ 1 tub of Philly Ready-To-Eat Cheesecake filling (in the dairy section)
+ 1 pint of raspberries

Scoop the cheesecake filling into a plastic baggie. Snip the corner with scissors for a make-shift pastry bag and pipe the filling into each cup. Top each cup with a raspberry.

SMOKY LINKS
1lb of mini smoked sausauge links (cocktail weiners)
+ 1 cup of barbecue sauce
+ 1/4 cup of orange marmalade or cherry preserves

Stir together the sauce and preserves, add to the sausages, heat and serve.


More "1-2-3" appetizers and cocktail recipes will be coming throughout the winter months to keep you inspired.

Cheers!