Selecting and Storing Fruit to Use In Summer Party Food Recipes (Twistson Snacks)

One thing we most look forward to in the summer is eating fresh seasonal foods, especially fruit. The colors, textures, and flavors of these juicy sweet goodies can make your summer party food recipes even better. But knowing how to select and store fruits properly can have some people scratching their heads.

While summer fruits can be eaten as is, used in salads, or to make smoothies, salsas, pies and tarts, their limited "shelf life" can be tricky. We pulled together a guide on selecting and storing these gems and have included some great party snack food recipes using fruit.

Let's take a look at the more popular, or common summer fruit choices. While most fruits are available year-round thanks to global shipping, when describing peak availability and freshness, summer fruits are those that are considered 'in season' from mid-June to late September.

Blackberries: Choose berries that are firm and plump, then store at room temperature or refrigerate in a single layer. These need to be used within a day or two. Wash when ready to eat.

Cherries: The stems should be flexible and green. The fruit should not have any splits, or any soft spots. They can keep at room temperature for several days, but will last longer when refrigerated. Do not remove the stems, as this will cause rapid deterioration.

Honeydew melon: Look for smooth green-ish skin and the absence of bruises. If the melon is not quite ripe, keep it in a paper bag at room temperature for 2-3 days. Once ripe, wrap in plastic and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Mangoes: Mangoes should have a yellow- red skin and should yield a bit when pressed. The smaller ones are typically better. Store mangoes at room temperature.

Peaches: These should have a noticeable sweet scent. Select peaches that have some give, but are not mushy or hard. Leave the soft or bruised ones alone. They can keep at room temperature for a few days or for longer in the refrigerator.

Strawberries: Pick strawberries that have a good red color and the green stems in place. The smaller ones tend to have much better flavor. Keep them refrigerated in a single layer for up to two days.

Watermelon: A ripe watermelon will give a bit to pressure at the stem end and will have a sweet scent. Store these at room temperature for 2-3 days, but refrigerate after cutting.

Here are some simple party food recipes using fruit:

Mango-Peach Salsa

2 peaches peeled & diced

1 mango peeled & diced

1/2 cup chopped red onion

1 jalapeno, seeded, finely chopped

1 tsp fresh lime juice

1 Tbs vegetable oil

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Salt and pepper

Toss peaches, mango, onions, jalapeno, lime juice, olive oil and cilantro together. Season with salt and pepper and refrigerate at least one hour before serving.

Chicken Salad with grapes

1 ? pound chicken tenders

5 cups water

1 ? cups chicken broth

1/3 cup plain yogurt

1/3 cup mayonnaise

1 Tbs Dijon Mustard

1 cup seedless grapes

1 Tbs dried tarragon

Salt and pepper

Boil chicken tenders in water and broth, then dice.

Cut grapes in halves or quarters according to preference

Combine mayonnaise and yogurt, Dijon mustard, tarragon, salt, and pepper.

Add chicken and grapes

Serve on croissants or rolls.

Pick fresh seasonal fruits and use them in some party food recipes this summer!

Source: http://www.twistsonsnacks.com/selecting-and-storing-fruit-to-use-in-summer-party-food-recipes/

We are the best source on the web for delicious, entertaining easy party food and recipes ideas. TwistsonSnacks are sponsored by John Wm. Macy's CheeseSticks. They're known for our award winning, twice-baked and hand rolled gourmet snacks.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Party Finger Foods - Easier on You and Your Guests (John Wm. Macy's CheeseSticks)

One of the strongest trends in food and eating this year is party finger foods. The bite-sized delights are fun and easy to prepare, and are a simple way for guests to enjoy a nibble. Forget the messy dips and sauces and no need to hassle with plates and forks.

There are those who track food trends and eating styles. IFT says 5 of the best-selling new foods this year were bite-sized or hand-held. So whether you determine your menu based on keeping up with trends, or you simply want easy party food, anything you can pop into your mouth in a bite or two should be on your list.

Let's be straight, we aren't suggesting a table full of cheese and crackers. There are a variety of quick appetizers that fit the bill. From baked goodies to rolled tidbits, think about the spectrum of hot and cold, colors that invite, and a range of ingredients including vegetables, meats and seafood, and pastries.

There are also larger dishes that can be shrunken to bite-sized without losing too much in translation.

First a few suggestions. Invest in mini muffin tins. You can create party finger foods that are the perfect size and easy to bake.

Try making mini bite-sized tacos using wonton wrappers, chopped shrimp, ground beef, or even veggie ground round, bake in the mini tins, then top with a small dollop of sour cream, salsa, or even guacamole.

Fill the tins with separated biscuit dough to create a cup, then fill with chopped veggies and cheese, or add sprinkles of bacon or pieces of diced chicken.

If you do plan to go the cracker route, think of something interesting for a topper. If you use cheese, spread some hot or sweet jelly on top or a dried apricot or date. Use smoked salmon, a bit of cream cheese and a caper. Little mini meals make great, quick appetizers.

Presentation is always a key to success. Select beautiful platters that look great as the party finger food are snapped up. Garnish the plates with flowers, herbs, or other fun items. You can easily spread the dishes around the room for people to nibble wherever they are. Be sure to keep napkins nearby, but that's all you'll need!

Finger foods and bite-sized nibbles are a fun easy party food. Easy to eat, fun to make, and right on trend.

John Wm. Macy's CheeseSticks are one of the best snack food companies. They provide the perfect crunch like Cheese Appetizers, Cheese Crisps, SweetSticks and other healthy snacks.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Do you know how to make a delicious vegetarian appetizer for your weekend party? (Adrian Johnson Jr.)

This weekend you would be having a small party at your place and you also invited your best friend. But this has also made you a little tensed, as your best friend is now vegetarian. Your mother being a seasoned cook, shares with you her delicious vegetarian appetizer recipe; it is stuffed mushrooms.

How do you prepare this vegetarian appetizer?

You are aware that your friend loves mushrooms. This delicious appetizer has been very popular in the various parties that your mother had arranged in her home. The basic ingredients needed to prepare stuffed mushrooms are:
Whole mushrooms: 12
Any type of vegetable oil: 1 tbs
Finely chopped garlic: 1 tbs
Fresh Parmesan cheese: ? cup
Ground pepper: ? teaspoon
Onion powder: ? teaspoon
Ground cayenne pepper: ? teaspoon

Below is the preparation process to make stuffed mushrooms appetizer.

Before you start preparing the delicious appetizer you have to clean the mushrooms properly with a damp towel. Do not directly wash the mushrooms with water, as their texture would get softened and the whole taste of the appetizer would be spoilt.
Once cleaned, break and remove the stems of the mushrooms. Now chop the stem portion of the mushrooms finely, discarding any rough ends.
Prepare a baking tray and spray it lightly with cooking oil. Then preheat the oven to around 350 F.

In a skillet heat oil till heat reaches medium temperature. Now in the heated skillet add the finely chopped garlic and the chopped mushroom stem portions. Your mother told you that at this stage, your kitchen would now be filled with aroma of this delicious appetizer when the mushrooms are being fried. You should take care and prevent the garlic from burning. Otherwise, the burnt garlic would add bitterness to the appetizer and your hard work would go in vain.

Once the mushrooms have been properly fried and the moisture has been removed from them you can leave them to cool off to room temperature.
Now in a clean glass bowl, add the fried mushroom and garlic mixture. In the same mixture add the other ingredients, which would make the appetizer delicious. These are parmesan cheese, black and cayenne pepper and onion powder. Blend all the ingredients well and the stuffing mixture should have a thick consistency.
Now with a small spoon, add the mushroom stuffing gently to the crown of the mushrooms.
Place the stuffed mushrooms gently on the baking tray. You do not want to break the mushrooms and destroy the presentation of this delicious appetizer.
In the preheated oven, the stuffed mushroom appetizer is baked for around twenty minutes.
The stuffed mushrooms are cooked until the cheese has melted.
That is how you prepare this vegetarian appetizer for your friend. At the end of the day, this will become a hit food and you promise to your guests, that you would make more of these stuffed mushrooms on the next party. For preparing easy appetizers(also called nemme forretter by the Danish chefs) like a pro, you should take advantage from some of the best Isabellas ideas and recipes.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Two Great Appetizer Recipes for your Next Summer Dinner Party (John Wm. Macy's CheeseSticks)

Summer is the perfect time for cookouts and dinner events. It is important to create appetizers and meals that are light and delicious. With these two great appetizer recipes, Avocado Salsa and Buffalo Chicken Dip, guests will be impressed by all your hard work. Little do they know that both appetizers will take you less than an hour to make!
Avocado Salsa: The Perfect Summertime Appetizer
In search of recipes for appetizers that are simple and delicious? Try this wonderful Avocado salsa paired with John Wm. Macy's CheeseCrisps. This delightful appetizer is perfect for a summer time dinner party or a light snack. The combination of fresh herbs and lime juice gives this traditional appetizer a new kick.
Ingredients:
2 ripe plum tomatoes
2 Ripe Avocados
? Cup Onions
1 lime
1 Tsp. Fresh Basil
Salt
John Wm. Macy's CheeseCrisps
Instructions:
1. Dice the tomatoes avocados and onions into small pieces
2. Cut the lime in half and squeeze out the juice of both sides, combining it with the other diced ingredients
3. Rinse and dry the fresh basil. Chop into small pieces combining with the other ingredients
4. Add salt to taste.
5. Server with John Wm. Macy's CheeseCrisps
This great appetizer recipe is quick and easy and a personal summer time favorite. The use of fresh vegetables and herbs in the salsa creates the perfect solution to a hot summer day. It is perfect paired with cheese crisps, because the crackers are light and offer a complimentary texture.
This easy appetizer recipe can be transformed into a hearty recipe by adding a few ingredients. Consider adding a variety of different vegetables and beans, such as corn, jalapenos or black beans. Placed on top of grilled salmon or added to a salad, this simple appetizer is transformed into a gourmet meal. Whatever the choice, guest or family members will be impressed with this delightful summer appetizer.

Buffalo Chicken Dip: The Versatile Party Snack Food

Looking for the perfect versatile party snack recipe? Buffalo Chicken Dip has it all. It can be perfect for those who like a little spice in their appetizers or can be transformed into delicious tacos. The best part about this appetizer is the combination of cheese and chicken. Topping this quick and easy appetizer with John Wm Macy's CheeseCrips adds the perfect crunch to every bite.

Ingredients:

3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 jar ranch dressing
1/2 cup of mild wing sauce
8 ounces softened cream cheese
1 small package shredded cheddar cheese
1 box John Wm Macy's Cheddar & Asiago CheeseCrisps

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. Boil chicken, then shred and chop
3. Mix dressing and sauce
4. Place CheeseCrips in a bag and gently crush with mallet or hammer
5. Spread cream cheese in 9x13 oven dish
6. Combine chicken with sauce/dressing mixture
7. Spread chicken sauce mixture evenly over cream cheese
8. Lightly sprinkle cheddar cheese and CheeseCrisps on tops
9. Bake for about 20 minutes

For this tasty party snack recipe, serve it with your favorite chips or crackers. If you would like to kick up the spice a little try using a medium wing sauce instead of mild. If you are looking for a healthier alternative replace the cream cheese with Neufchatel cheese and the ranch dressing with light ranch dressing. Also, instead of using your favorite chips or crackers for dipping, use a variety of vegetables.

This easy and quick appetizer can be made into a main meal by using more chicken in larger chunks and served with rice or over a bed of lettuce. It could also be transformed into delicious tacos, by rolling the ingredients into a tortilla. The bottom line is this is a party snack recipe that can't go wrong.

John Wm. Macy's Cheesesticks is a snack food company provides party snack food and recipes. We also provide gourmet snacks and baked snacks include crunchy and delicious flavors of CheeseSticks, Cheese Crisps and Sweet Sticks.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

dPlanning Party Snack Food with a Theme (John Wm. Macy's CheeseSticks)

Throwing a party can be a lot of work. But planning for an event can be simpler if you select a theme for your party snack food Often a party table will be set with dips, bite-sized nibbles, cheese snacks, and veggie trays. While this is fine, having some rhyme or reason to the food makes choosing your party snack recipes easier; it also creates a bit of fun.

Choosing a Theme for the Party

Pulling together a larger theme - one for the party itself, not just the food - takes a bit more effort, but some favorites that aren't too much of a challenge are "around the world" or even a specific country. Think of the fun you'll have decorating for a location party, how much fun your guests will have feeling like they're on a mini vacation, and what a treat it will be to select party snack recipes while learning about a particular country!

Color party themes are another go-to idea. Black and white parties are common, but it's difficult to find foods that match that concept. Throwing a Blue party wouldn't be a great idea either, can you think of many blue party snack foods? An orange party, however, would allow for serving any appetizers that have carrots, or cheese, or yes, oranges. Some easy party snack recipes that come to mind are cheese balls, carrots with a delicious cream cheese dip or an orange spice cake for desert!

Choosing a Theme for the Food

The theme could be food related, such as using some of the same ingredients throughout the spread. It could also be color related, especially to celebrate a holiday or certain season. It's easy to come up with red and green foods for Christmas or red, white, and blue foods for the Fourth of July. If you are not feeling very creative for the day, just turn to the internet where you can find great holiday related party snack recipes. The small amount of effort there makes a big impact on the eyes.

If it is a struggle to find a theme you are comfortable with, look at what decorations may be stored around the house. An old flower arrangement could be transformed into a center piece for a spring dinner event or an old Birthday wrapping paper could be easily transformed into a personalized table cloth. Many appetizer recipes can be made with a few ingredients that are also stored in the pantry.

So whether you're throwing a "Hot and Spicy" party, or a meat lover's extravaganza, having a theme for the food, and even the d?cor makes it easy and fun for all of the guests. They will leave the party feeling inspired and full with all of the wonderful party snack food you prepared!

John Wm. Macy's Cheesesticks is a snack food company provides party snack food and recipes. We also provide gourmet snacks and baked snacks include crunchy and delicious flavors of CheeseSticks, Cheese Crisps and Sweet Sticks.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad