8 Holiday Dishes To Pass They Can’T Pass Up
Few things are certain in life, but we all know that invitations to holiday office parties and family gatherings with requests to bring food are inevitable. Not to worry: We’ve got you covered. Choose from this selection of appetizers, sides and desserts, and provide the wow factor at any bash.
Pull Apart Appetizer Ring
This yeasty-bread is coated in a mix of seeds—poppy, sesame, caraway and celery—in addition to black pepper. Serve this Pull Apart bread with a variety of spreadable cheeses like blue cheese or a cheese ball for a unique take on cheese and crackers.
Sweet and Tangy Cocktail Sausages
Cocktail sausages are always a winner, no matter the occasion. These Sweet and Tangy Cocktail Sausages spiced with coarse mustard and Spice Islands® Chili Powder are no exception. Cook ahead of time and keep warm in a small slow cooker for serving.
Peppered Parmesan Shortbread
Shortbread cookies usually take the form of a sweet treat. Surprise guests with this savory play on the cookie, brimming with Parmesan cheese, cayenne pepper, thyme and black pepper. Made ahead of time, these shortbread cookies are an ideal appetizer to bring to a gathering.
Turkey and Dressing Fluffins
Want to bring the flavors of turkey and dressing to an office party without having to cart an entire bird? Check out these Turkey and Dressing Fluffins. As a twist on the muffin, this yeast-based bread is heightened with poultry seasoning and combined with all the holiday favorites—turkey, celery and dried cranberries. Serve with a side of gravy for dunking purposes.
Cajun Macaroni and Cheese
This Cajun-take on macaroni and cheese brings flavors up a notch. A homemade Cajun spice blend made from seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper and more adds a pop of heat. Melted Monterey Jack cheese and sharp cheddar, in addition to chunks of andouille sausage, will satisfy even the deepest of hungers.
Gorgonzola Stuffed Baby Potatoes
Everyone will go nuts over these Gorgonzola Stuffed Baby Potatoes, which are akin to mini twice-baked potatoes. With a filling overflowing with chives, walnuts and a variety of cheeses, these can be pulled off as a side to the main meal or as hors d’oeuvres passed around straight from the oven.
Coconut Pecan Bourbon Cake
This dessert offers a little nugget of tastiness for everyone, whether it’s the toasted coconut in the cake, the pecans sprinkled on the top, or the hit of bourbon and orange juice glaze for a boost of flavor. This impressive cake is sure to please, visually and on the taste buds.
Gingerbread Biscotti
Biscotti, like this gingerbread variety, is a great option for a daytime work holiday gathering—the better to dunk the biscotti into coffee or tea. Plus, all the flavors of molasses, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves usher in the holiday spirit.
Andrea Lynn is a recipe developer and cookbook author, most recently of the culinary guidebook/cookbook, Queens: A Culinary Passport.
