Easy Peasy Holiday Appetizers & Sides
It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving has already come and gone! Next up are all the holiday celebrations of December and I’m starting to plan some appetizers and sides that I can throw together quickly for parties and get togethers. I picked 2 appetizers and 2 sides dishes that have simple and straightforward steps. These dishes are not only quick to make and truly delicious, but will allow you to hit up the “10 Items or Less” lane at the grocery store and spend that extra time with your loved ones. (P.S. Even your littlest loved ones can help out with these recipes!)
Stuffed Long Hot Peppers (Appetizer)
The credit here goes to fellow foodie, Rebecca Braun. When she first described this appy to us, it was all we could do not to drool. And let me tell you…they did NOT disappoint. All the Thanksgiving-goers raved about them. We used some long hots (you can cut them in half), but also used shishito peppers so there was a milder option, too. After washing the peppers, slice them down the middle and remove the seeds and ribs. Stuff with provolone cheese and then wrap with prosciutto slices. Drizzle or brush with Extra Virgin Olive Oil and bake in a 425 degree oven for about 15 minutes or so, until the prosciutto is crisped and the peppers have softened. Mangia!
Stuffed Mushrooms (Appetizer)
This was a compilation of many different recipes that I researched, but I think it hit the mark. Remove all the stems and clean the mushrooms thoroughly with a damp paper towel. In a separate bowl, combine Italian seasoned bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, dried parsley or Italian seasoning, minced garlic, shredded mozzarella and melted butter and mix thoroughly to make the stuffing. Stuff each mushroom and place them on a greased baking sheet. Drizzle with Extra Virgin Olive Oil or melted butter and bake in a 375 degree oven until golden brown. Super delish!
Roasted Asparagus (Side)
This is the simplest, and most delicious, vegetable dish. Clean and trim the asparagus. Line a cooking sheet with foil and spray with a mister or Pam. Use a brush to apply Extra Virgin Olive Oil generously on the stalks. Sprikle with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Finally, sprinkle with parmesan cheese and bake in a high heat oven (425/450 degrees) for about 10 minutes, or until asparagus is done to your liking. A surefire hit!
Roasted Potatoes (Side)
When in Tuscany a couple summers ago, we learned the beauty of using simple ingredients to create a delectable dish. You can choose any type of potato that you like; I prefer new or baby potatoes because I find they crisp up nicely, while leaving the inside creamy and smooth. Slice each cleaned and scrubbed potato in half, if using small potatoes, or just be sure you keep them less than inch if using larger ones. Place in a large gallon sized ziplock bag and drizzle in Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Add kosher salt and ground black pepper, and shake the bag vigorously until all potatoes are coated. Spread them on greased cookie sheet and add chopped, fresh rosemary. Bake at 400 degrees until potatoes are browned on the outside. Yum!!!!
What are some of your go-to, easy holiday dishes? Please share in the comments section! Happy Holidays!!
