5 Party Appetizers That Won't Break the Bank

It's party season! We're turning our focus to entertaining and all that it entails. So I thought that today we could back up and look back at the beginning of a meal: appetizers.

Whether you're hosting a graduation get-together, a wedding reception, or a simple brunch for friends appetizers are a big consideration. When I planned my mom's 60th birthday bash I learned quickly that the costs add up. Fast.

So, in an effort not to break the bank, my sisters and I did some appetizer research like you wouldn't believe. We planned a menu that consists of simple bites that we'd really like to eat: nothing fussy, nothing too pricey.

And I thought I'd share a few of our ideas with you here today. From a simple dip to incredible olives, these bites will keep guests occupied, delighted, and satiated while standing around enjoying each others' company. And isn't that what any good party is all about, anyway?

Herb-Marinated Feta and Olives - Epicurious
Zucchini Toasts - Sprouted Kitchen
Hank's Tomatillo Avocado Dip - The Hungry Texan
Cheese Straws - Saveur
White Bean Hummus - Orangette

What are your favorite crowd-pleasing yet economical appetizers?

Related: Crusty Bites: 10 Appetizers Served on Toast

(Image: Megan Gordon)

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What Good Meals to Bring to a New Mom? 10 Recipe Ideas

We have good friends who are expecting their first baby any second now, and it's had me thinking about what we should make to bring over when the day comes. I've had a few close friends have their first children this year, but unfortunately we haven't lived in the same city, so I'm thrilled to have the chance to help out this time around.

Of course the question is always the same: what to make? I feel like "new mom" food and "bereavement" food often fall into the casserole camp, and it makes a lot of sense: you want to have something around that will be satisfying, easy to heat up, and will last a few days. But I imagine casseroles get pretty old after awhile, so I set out to do some research on dishes that would fit most of those criteria but promise something a bit more interesting (with a few casserole-type dishes thrown in for good measure, of course). I imagine a big hearty salad or lentil soup would be most welcome as would meatballs to snack on throughout the day or chili to reheat later in the evening.

I'd love to know: what are you favorite foods to bring to new moms? Or for all of you moms out there, what did you most appreciate receiving?

10 Recipe Suggestions:
Turkey Lentil Meatballs (pictured) - Megan Gordon for The Kitchn
Green Chile Enchiladas - Simple Recipes
Spinach and Feta Pie - Elle's New England Kitchen
Vegetarian Quinoa Chili - Two Peas and Their Pod
Mom's Baked Fried Chicken and Gravy - Epicurious
Spicy Pork and Soba Noodles - Real Simple
Layered Salad - The Pioneer Woman
French Lentil Soup - Honest Fare
Whole Wheat Tortilla Pie with Chicken - Dinner A Love Story
Lasagne with Sausage and Kale - Martha Stewart

Related: Meals For New Moms: Make Lunch!

(Image: Megan Gordon)

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What Are Some Good Recipes for a Potluck Cocktail Party? Good Questions

Q: I am going to a potluck cocktail party and need suggestions on some recipes. The cocktail party host will be making mini meatballs and others will be bringing cocktail foods as well. Need some ideas for some yummy and healthy cocktail foods.

Sent by Mara

Editor: Readers, what are your favorite nibbles and recipes for cocktail parties?

Next question?

Related: Cocktail Party Strategy: Make a Lot of Few Dishes

(Image: Megan Gordon - Party Tip: Keep a House Cocktail Journal)

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