Five ways to add something new to a party

Published 5:00 pm Saturday, December 10, 2011

Having a hard time coming up with ideas for your party? Here are five suggestions from HyVee registered dietitian Jen Haugen that could help carry the day.

Fruit salsa. This is just another flexible versian of salsa that includes fresh fruits in a different way. Find something suitable to use with the dip that might have a sweeter taste. However, don’t forget that there are several kinds of salsas with an endless variations of things to dip.

Dips. Many will tell you, trying to eat healthy during this time of year is tough, but not impossible and you start with the dip. Use greek yogurt for a base and add things like Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning packs or some veggie cream cheese for a different take. And don’t just stick to the usual array of vegetables. Try several different kinds of vegetables and use some color.

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Appetizers. There is so much you can use for an appetizer, but try wanton cups and use different kids of fillers: Maybe some chicken sausage or turkey/chicken salads. Simply put the wantans in a cupcake/muffin cup, cook until crisp and fill.

Drinks. You can’t have a party without beverages. Make sure you have an assortment of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. For more variety, invite guests to bring a bottle of wine.

Try at least one new recipe. This is pretty self-explanatory, but such a simple change could exhalt rave revues on your party. Try it at least once before the party, however, just to make sure it will work.