by Theo Chester

Created on: November 17, 2009   Last Updated: January 01, 2010

Appetizers are the socialites of the food world. There's nothing better than serving small bites to your guests, giving them time to mingle, meet, and greet others. Food tends to always put people at ease. A clever assortment of appetizers will also provide guests with a comfortable atmosphere and a topic for conversation.

These little bites can add glamour to any soiree. Casual events can also be built on the strength of appetizers that are served. Following a theme, balancing flavors, and providing variety are the basic criteria for selecting appetizers to serve. Keep in mind the tastes of your guests, while being sensitive to their food preferences. Think about the vegetarians and consider those who have food allergies, when you are creating your menu.

It's important to always remember that people are said to eat with their eyes. Your presentation is almost as important as the food you serve. Keep your appetizers colorful, don't overdo one color range. The look of your platters gets a big visual boost when you incorporate edible garnishes. Decorate your platters with other finger foods, such as tiny tomatoes, radishes, sliced cucumbers, chips, etc for added interest. Fruits, nuts, and cheeses can be incorporated with other appetizers or make an ample and stunning spread for starters. Add some interesting breads, and you'll have more than enough to keep your guests nibbling and happy.

Here's an appetizer recipe that has been a big hit at my parties for many years. A friend of mine was kind enough to share it with me when I was desperate for a quick and easy appetizer to serve. Not only is it a simple recipe to follow, it can be made ahead of time, and it freezes very well.

SPINACH PIE:

Preheat Oven to 350F

Ingredients:

3/4 lb. Sliced Swiss Cheese

3 - 10 oz. Packages of Frozen Spinach, defrosted, drain and squeeze out as much water as possible

1 cup Crumbled Feta Cheese

1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

3 Eggs - Lightly Beaten

1 Large Onion - Finely Chopped

Black Pepper - To Taste

Paprika - As Garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Spray 2 -10"- Pie Plates With Pam

Cover the bottom and the sides of the pie plates with Swiss cheese - this is the crust

In a large mixing bowl, mix spinach, feta, Parmesan, eggs, onion and pepper

Divide evenly into pie plates

Place pie plates on a cookie sheet

Bake in 350F oven for 30 minutes

Remove from oven, sprinkle with paprika (optional)

Let cool before slicing

Cut into thin wedges or squares

Each pie should serve 8 ample sized appetizers or cut into small squares for 16-20 servings.

Learn more about this author, Theo Chester.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.