There's nothing worse than hosting a special-occasion soiree, only to spend most of the party heating, assembling or passing the appetizers you prepared. This time, ring in the New Year right - these make-ahead party foods will ensure that, come midnight, you have a glass of champagne and not a serving platter in your hand.For a healthier option that's not a crudite tray, assemble an antipasti platter that stars plenty of marinated veggies and make-ahead dips.
Prosciutto-wrapped melon really couldn't be easier and, while you're wrapping, skewered bacon-wrapped water chestnuts are great baked, then served at room temperature.
Give the traditional bowl of party nuts a homemade touch with chile-lime cashews or fried herbed almonds.
Make the filling for goat cheese-stuffed mushrooms the night before, then put them out first at your party - they won't last long!
Use thawed frozen puff pastry to make a savory caramelized onion tart.
And if it's not a party without shrimp cocktail, make a shrimp cocktail with three dipping sauces; the sauces can be made at least a day ahead.
From: Allie | 12/29/10 at 4:44 pm
That picture is gorgeous! I've actually never seen honey dew proscitto but I think of I'd love it better than canteloupe.