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Our Easiest Party Foods

Our Easiest Party Foods

February 13, 2011

These tasty recipes take the stress out of entertaining so that you can spend more time enjoying the party with your guests.

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1 of 24

Mushroom-and-Goat-Cheese Purses

Johnny Miller

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Frozen phyllo dough from the store makes putting these purses together a cinch. You can even saute the mushroom filling in advance.

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2 of 24

Avocado Bar

Johnny Miller

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Think of this as an update on the taco bar: Lay out a platter of seasoned, lime-doused avocado halves and bowls of toppings, and let guests help themselves.

3 of 24

Spinach Dip

John von Pamer

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Lighten up everyone's favorite baked dip by using ricotta instead of the usual cream cheese or sour cream and adding plenty of greens.

4 of 24

Smoky Black-Bean Salsa

Chelsea Cavanaugh

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Liven up a can of black beans with chiles in adobo, lime juice, red onion, and fresh cilantro, then serve with your favorite sweet potato chips. The black-and-orange color pairing makes the chips and dip especially apt for Halloween.

5 of 24

Pigs in Blankets

Nicole Franzen

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It's impossible for these puff pastry-wrapped sausages to not be a hit. They're the first to disappear at every party, every time.

6 of 24

Aged-Cheddar and Beer Dip

Ryan Liebe

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Lager adds depth of flavor to this rich, crowd-pleasing dip made with a trifecta of cheeses -- cheddar, Gruyere, and cream cheese. Serve with pretzel rods and celery stalks.

7 of 24

Dates and Blue Cheese

Sharon Radisch

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You only need four ingredients for this addictive sweet-and-salty finger food -- dates, Gorgonzola piccante, toasted sliced almonds, honey.

8 of 24

Crudites with Miso-Yogurt Dip

Chelsea Cavanaugh

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Umami-packed miso adds intrigue to this creamy dip made with tangy Greek yogurt. Sprinkle with toasted black and white sesame seeds and serve alongside a medley of colorful vegetables.