{Party Tip Tuesday} Whenever Possible, Make it, Don’t Fake it.
Hi blog friends! It’s time for us to all admit something. When you go to a party and it’s time to make your way to the food table, we all immediately transform into food critics on the spot. At least a little bit in our own minds. I do it. You do it. We should all say it together! “I’m Colleen and I’m a food judger at parties.” (Sorry to any of my friends reading this.) One thing that party hosts can do to get high marks in your critic-friends’ minds is to have your food all be homemade and fresh. I instantly recognize the extra effort my friends have put in when I see home-prepared food. Store bought party trays are okay, especially when you’re in a hurry, but I find that homemade is always the better choice when throwing or attending a party. For example, let’s talk about a staple food item found at most parties or family events – the veggie tray. It doesn’t have to be boring or store-bought (and most often, it shouldn’t!).
Buying all the veggies separate and preparing your own tray gives you a few advantages;
1. It’s super fresh. You won’t find any slimy celery sticks or dry carrots on your tray. No one wants to eat those anyway and you end up just wasting food and money.
2. You get more variety (and color!). Pick unique, seasonal veggies that are not usually found in the standard store-bought trays. Plus, on those pre-made trays, there’s always one food that nobody wants to eat. I’m thinking radishes. Who wants to eat radishes?!
3. Presentation, presentation, presentation! Need I say more? There are a lot of great ways to prepare and serve your food that take a step outside of the box. Here’s 10 Creative Vegetable Trays that guests of all ages will be sure to appreciate during holiday gatherings or everyday occasions.
Also, in sticking with the fresh ingredient theme, skip the ranch dressing or dip in a tub. Opt for making your own veggie dip with fresh spices and ingredients. We found this yummy recipe for Lemon-Garlic Chickpea Dip – perfect for your next Spring party!
Enjoy!
- Colleen
Thank You Colleen, You did a fantastic job finding these. Great Job!
Nice tray!
I always eat the radishes though, I love them!