Light and Delicious
Cherry Tomato Basil Bites
This recipe is as healthy as it is easy to whip up. Gather 20 grape tomato halves, 20 fresh basil leaves and 20 small pieces of mozzarella cheese. "Using a toothpick, spear the tomato, basil and mozzarella," explains Stephanie Merchant, health and lifestyle coach. Whisk together 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 1/4 cup olive oil, then drizzle on top.
Shrimp and Avocado Ceviche
"Ceviche is a great option," says Marley Majcher, owner of The Party Goddess! catering and event company. Boil 1/4 cup salt with 2 quarts water. Add 1 pound large peeled, raw shrimp, tailless. Remove from heat. Let set for three minutes. Drain. Rough chop shrimp. Add the juice of 2 lemons, 2 limes and 2 oranges; 1 cup peeled, diced cucumber; 1/2 cup chopped red onion; 2 chopped Serrano chilies. Chill at least one hour. Before serving, add 1 cup diced tomatoes, 1 cubed avocado, 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro and 1/4 cup olive oil.
Cucumber Cream Cheese Rolls
These cucumber rolls deliver a burst of savory flavors and textures in one bite. Start out by peeling 8 lengthwise slices of cucumber, 1/8-inch thick. Next, spread a teaspoon of light cream cheese across each cucumber slice; top with shredded carrots and raisins to taste. "Roll up the cucumber, keeping the filling carefully inside," Merchant says. Secure with a toothpick and serve chilled.
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Roasted, Seasoned Almonds
Like cheese and wine, nuts are a must at any cocktail party. Instead of throwing a purchased can of nuts on the table, add a little personality to your selection. Try tossing almonds in olive oil, for example. Spread the nuts on a lined baking sheet and sprinkle smoked paprika, cumin, thyme and fresh garlic over them. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.
Basic Bruschetta
Bruschetta is a favorite heartier cocktail party dish. Combine the following ingredients, all chopped, and let chill: 1 cup basil, 3 tomatoes, 1 small onion. Slice a baguette and drizzle olive oil on either side. Sprinkle lightly with salt. Grill or toast in the oven, then top with the tomato mixture. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh Parmesan cheese on top.
Chili-Lime Deviled Eggs
These chili-lime deviled eggs are an easy and healthy twist on a favorite standard. Prepare 8 hard-boiled eggs; let them cool, then cut each one in half. Remove the yolks and place in a bowl with 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons lime juice, 2 minced Thai chilies, 1 teaspoon cumin, 2 tablespoons chopped tomatoes, 3 teaspoons chopped cilantro and 2 tablespoons minced green peppers. Mix well and add salt and pepper to taste. Place the yolk mixture into a piping bag. Pipe into egg halves before guests arrive.
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