Quick and Easy Recipes for Appetizers, Party Foods, and Poolside Snacks

Gathering family and friends around the pool, having a party inside in the air-conditioning, just wanting some quick and easy snacks? This article has recipes to allow you to get snacks together without a lot of your time involved. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the party; the prep is easy! And the kids are not left out. There is a special recipe for them! Ham Filled Tomatoes, Tofu Taco Dip, Cheesy Salsa Dip, and Garlic Cannellini Bean Dip along with some chips and fresh veggies will make everyone happy.

PARTY APPETIZER FOR KIDS
Break graham crackers into squares so they are "kid-sized". Top with peanut butter. Sprinkle some miniature semisweet chocolate chips over the peanut butter. (Adult kids like these, too!)

Cookie Recipes For Kids

TINY HAM FILLED TOMATOES
1 pint cherry tomatoes
2 tbsp sour cream
1 can (4.5-oz) deviled ham
2 tbsp horseradish

Wash tomatoes, thinly slice off tops, remove some pulp and dry tomatoes with paper towels. In a small bowl combine the sour cream and horseradish; add the deviled ham. Stir mixture to blend well. Stuff the tomatoes with the ham mixture and refrigerate until serving time.

TOFU TACO DIP
1 box (10.5-oz) silken tofu, softened
1 pkg (1.25-oz) dry taco seasoning mix

Put both ingredients into the blender or food processor; mix until smooth. Chill prior to serving. Serve with corn chips or tortilla chips.

NOTE: Variations: Replace taco seasoning mix with dry Ranch Dressing Mix or Dry French Onion Soup Mix. Serve with chips and/or fresh veggies.

CHEESY SALSA DIP
1 lb Velveeta-style cheese, cubed
1 jar (8-oz) your favorite salsa
2 tbsp chopped cilantro

In a microwave-safe bowl, put the cubed cheese product and salsa. Microwave on high for about 5 minutes or until thoroughly heated and cheese is melted. Stir after 2 1/2 to 3 minutes. Add the cilantro; stir in to mix well. Serve dip with tortillas and/or corn chips.

GARLIC CANNELLINI BEAN DIP
1 can (15-oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 tbsp cider vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/3 tsp ground cumin
1/3 cup plain yogurt
1 tbsp minced fresh parsley
1 tbsp minced fresh cilantro

In a food processor combine the beans, vinegar, garlic, salt and cumin. Add the cover and process until smooth. Add the yogurt, parsley, and cilantro. Replace cover and process just until blended.

This dip is great with assorted crackers, pita chips, or fresh veggies.

Enjoy!

Quick and Easy Recipes for Appetizers, Party Foods, and Poolside Snacks

For more of Linda's quick and easy recipes visit her blog at http://grandmasquickfixrecipes.blogspot.com
For her diabetic information and recipes visit her at http://diabeticenjoyingfood.blogspot.com