Friday, December 11, 2009

A Must Have for Simple Entertaining



I can't believe that I am sharing this secret. But I feel I must because plain old cream cheese has saved me on more than one occasion. For unexpected guests or a late night snack, with a block of cream cheese on hand, you can make virtually anything right from your own pantry. AND, it won't look like you just threw it together!

For super easy snacks, just add one softened block of your favorite cream cheese to one of the following essentials that are buried in the back of your cupboard and nuke in the microwave until heated through for about 2 minutes!

Shrimp, Tuna or Salmon: Add a can of drained tuna, a spash of lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and about a teaspoon of dried dill and you have a wonderful spread for crackers. Serve warm or cold...it's super yummy!

Red Peppers and/or Marinated Artichokes: Drain and chop a jar of your favorite peppers in oil or italian artichokes (I use both!). Add 1/2 cup of mayonaise and mix all ingredients with a spoon until blended. For extra zing, add about 1/2 cup of your favorite grated parmeasean or romano cheese. Microwave or heat in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes until bubbly...FABULOUS!

Salsa, Chili, or Refried Beans: Add any of these three to a brick of cream cheese and you have a quick and satifying snack ready in just minutes! Microwave or heat in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes until bubbly. Top with shredded cheddar or monteray jack cheese for a nice final touch! Serve with homemade tortilla chips made from scratch...you know you have some in your fridge!

What is your favorite secret recipe? Please share your comments or submit your recipe for all to see! Happy Sharing!
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1 comments:

  1. I can attest to this. I keep a block of cream cheese, a chunk of cheddar cheese, a can of Hormel no bean chili and a bag of fritoes on hand at all times. WHY? because you never know when there's gonna be a party!!

    I LOVE CREAM CHEESE!
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