Top 10 List: Foods to Have on Hand for Impromptu Holiday Entertaining

1. Mixed Nuts – Have a can or two of deluxe mixed nuts (without peanuts) on hand. These can be warmed in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes (toasting releases flavor and aroma).
2. Marinated Olives – Pick up some at the deli counter or marinate yourself with good quality olive oil, lemon zest, cracked peppercorns and fresh rosemary. I like large green olives stuffed with pimentos, garlic, almonds and jalapenos.
3. Soft Cream Cheeses – A wheel of brie or camembert can be easily paired with crackers, crusty bread or fresh fruit. To add flair, wrap in puff pastry and bake at 400°F for about 25 minutes or top with sautéed fruit or a prepared chutney.
4. Fancy Crackers – Flavored crackers, bagel chips, pita crisps and flat breads can be eaten alone or served with dips, cold cuts and spreads.
5. Cold Cuts – Keep slices of ham, turkey, salami and other meats on hand to create an antipasto plate with a moments notice. Garnish with olives, artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes from the pantry. Leftovers make a great snack or weekday lunch.
6. Dip Mixes – Whip up a batch of dip in mere minutes with a dried dip mix and some sour cream, mayonnaise or yogurt. Choose bold and exotic flavors like lemon dill or wasabi ginger!
7. Prepared Spreads – Serve flavored hummus from the refrigerated section of the deli with precut veggies and pita crisps or use ready made pestos and relishes with cream cheese to create a savory spread.
8. Cookies – A tin of good quality assorted cookies in the pantry will satisfy your guests’ sweet tooth, especially the little ones.
9. Coffee, tea and hot chocolate – Brew a pot of fresh ground coffee or offer your guests a choice of traditional and flavored teas. Have premium hot chocolate (and marshmallows) on hand for the kids.
10. Chocolates – A stash of individually wrapped Belgian or Swiss chocolates is a sweet way to end any visit.