6 stress-free no-fuss appetizers

by Anthony Thomas
(Ontario)

We love outdoor entertaining in the summer, and fireside entertaining in the winter. These are our go-to fave's.

1. Wrap fruit or veggies in thin prosciutto or ham. Good choices are blanched asparagus, melon, papaya, mango, kiwi.

2. Make instant canapes via a variety of crackers and dips. You can make in a flash, or set out like an appy buffet and everyone can help themselves. Great dips include cream cheese, hummus, eggplant dip, seafood salad.

3. Quesadillas can be made very quickly. Insides can include shredded cheese, grilled veggies, cooked chicken or shrimp, sausage. Toast both sides in a dry ceramic (non stick) skillet. Serve in wedges with salsa and sour cream.

4. Wrap a whole circle of brie in prepared pastry dough and bake. Serve with crackers and veggies. Apple jelly is a nice garnish.

5. If you like smoked fish pate, then combine room temp cream cheese with a tin of smoked fish and serve on crackers.

6. Toss mixed nuts with curry powder or chili powder and roast at 375F for 5 minutes. Serve warm. Delicious.

And the best stress-relieving part? Spending time with family and friends.