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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Mushroom-and-Goat-Cheese Purses

Credit: 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

Credit: 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.

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Spinach Dip

Credit: 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.

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Smoky Black-Bean Salsa

Credit: 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.

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Pigs in Blankets

Credit: 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.

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Aged-Cheddar and Beer Dip

Credit: 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.

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Dates and Blue Cheese

Credit: 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.

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Crudites with Miso-Yogurt Dip

Credit: 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.