Imagine impressing your guests with a gorgeous, gourmet-looking appetizer that takes less time to prepare than scrolling through social media! These Last Minute Holiday Appetizers are your ultimate culinary lifesaver, transforming simple ingredients into an elegant spread that looks like you've been planning for weeks. Whether you're hosting a spontaneous gathering or need a quick dish for a festive party, this recipe will make you look like a professional chef with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Various
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package of assorted crackers
- 1 cup cheese spread
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup salami, sliced
- 1/2 cup grapes or berries
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and arrange a clean workspace with a large serving platter or cutting board.
- If cheese spread is cold, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften, making it easier to spread.
- Carefully slice olives into thin, uniform rounds, ensuring they are well-drained to prevent excess moisture on the crackers.
- Thinly slice salami into bite-sized pieces, creating delicate and even cuts that will layer nicely on crackers.
- Wash grapes or berries thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Arrange crackers in an attractive pattern on the serving platter, creating a base for the appetizer.
- Using a small spatula or butter knife, spread a thin layer of cheese spread on each cracker.
- Top each cheese-spread cracker with a slice of salami, folding or cutting as needed to fit neatly.
- Garnish with olive slices and fresh grapes or berries for color and additional flavor.
- Chill the platter for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and cheese to set slightly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your quick and elegant holiday appetizer.
Tips
- • Temperature matters: Let your cheese spread soften at room temperature for smooth, easy spreading • Use a sharp knife for uniform slicing of salami and olives to ensure a professional presentation • Pat ingredients dry to prevent soggy crackers and maintain crisp textures • Choose a variety of cracker shapes and sizes for visual interest • Arrange ingredients strategically, creating color and height variations on your platter • Prepare ingredients just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess • Consider using seasonal berries or garnishes for an extra festive touch • Keep a small kitchen towel nearby for quick clean-ups and neat plating • Chill the platter briefly to help cheese set and flavors meld together • Have fun and don't stress - presentation is about creativity, not perfection!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
