Appetizers: 
Here are some ideas for easy to prepare appetizers that will provide a stunning array of delicious nibbles.

Meatballs In Cranberry-Orange Sauce  -  Make-Ahead Beef & Artichoke Appetizers  - 

Meatballs In Cranberry-Orange Sauce
(as seen on the Holiday TV ads)
Total preparation and cooking time:  20 minutes
Makes 8 servings

  • 1 package (18 ounce) fully-cooked frozen meatballs
  • 1 can (16 ounce) whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup prepared mild picante sauce
  • 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh ginger
  • dash ground allspice

In a large non-stick skillet, combine all ingredients except meatballs.   Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low.  Simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes, stirring and slightly pressing to crush whole berries.  Add meatballs to skillet; continue to cook until meatballs are heated through, stirring occasionally.

Make-Ahead Beef & Artichoke Appetizers
total preparation and cooking time:  30 minutes
Makes 24 appetizers (serving size: 1 skewer)

  • 1 pound sliced 1/8-inch thick Deli roast beef
  • 1/4 cup prepared fat-free Italian dressing
  • 14 ounces quartered, drained Artichoke hearts
  • 1 basket, cut in half cherry tomatoes
  • 6 ounce can, small, pitted, drained ripe olives (optional)
  • 1/4 cup prepared fat-free Italian dressing
 
  1. Place deli roast beef in utility dish; add 1/4 cup dressing, turning to coat.
  2. In large bowl, combine artichoke hearts, tomatoes, olives, if desired, and remaining dressing; toss to coat.
  3. Remove beef from dressing (one slice at a time); roll up tightly from wide end.   Cut into 3/4-inch wide pinwheels.
  4. To assemble, alternately thread two beef pinwheels, two artichoke pieces, two tomato halves and two olives, if desired, on each of twenty-four 6-inch bamboo skewers.   Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until serving time.