Appetizers for New Year's Eve Celebrations

Now that the turkey left-overs are getting tired - it's time to start thinking about New Year's Eve finger food!  Here's a delicious and healthy appetizer idea.  This recipe was first introduced to me at a friend's Christmas gathering and I have made it several times since then.  It's always festive looking and very easy to put together.  We are invited to a New Year's Eve Party and I'll be making this for sure.

Boccocini Kabobs

Make kabobs with mini boccocini cheese balls, fresh basil leaves and cherry tomatos on a toothpick or small wooden kabob stick.  Arrange mini kabobs on platter and drizzle with a Balsamic Vinegar Reduction.

Balsamic Vinegar Reduction:

2 Cups of a good quality Balsamic Vinegar ( i.e. Modena, Italy)

¼ Cup sugar

Pinch of salt

Over medium high heat bring to a rolling boil – stir until sugar is dissolved and continue to cook until reduced to 1/3 Cup or to desired consistency to drizzle.  Do not overcook as this thickens more as it cools and is very potent.  A little goes a long way.  This is delicious drizzled on fresh strawberries or watermelon as well!

Another favourite appetizer that I make often is this Sour Dough Bread dip recipe that I got many years ago from my SIL Angela.  Certainly a family favourite!

Sour Dough Bread Dip

2 Tins Flaked Ham

1 Small jar Hellman’s Mayonnaise

1 Container Sour Cream

1 Tbsp. Dill Weed

1 tsp. *Beau Monde (get this at the bulk food store – it’s a mixture of spices)

1 Tbsp. grated onion

Mix the above ingredients and pour into a hallowed out round sour dough loaf.  Serve with the remaining bread -  cubed. Raw veggies as dippers are also delicious.

HAPPY, HAPPY NEW YEAR'S EVE!  I am looking forward to 2012 with much joy and anticipation!