If you are anything like me, you want to enjoy cooking as much as you
want the people that are going to be eating it, to enjoy your dish.  
In order for me to enjoy it, it must be fairly effortless and still
taste wonderful.  Luckily, most of my family dishes that have 
survived the test of time take little time to prepare.  This is an
added bonus when you get called to bring something at the last minute!

Appetizers are great to bring on a moments notice to a family reunion, 
Christmas, Easter or Thanksgiving dinner (if your lucky enough not to 
have to have it at your house!), or a small party you might be throw-
ing yourself.  A whole table of appetizers is a great way to get out
of having a sit down dinner and still feel like the wonderful host or 
hostess you are!

Enjoy!  (And don't forget to sneak a few for yourself!) 

1 lb. ground beef
1/2 c. dry bread crumbs
1/3 c. chopped onion
1/4 c. milk
1 egg
1 T. parsley flakes
1 t. salt
1 t. pepper

Mix all together & shape into 1" balls.  Melt 1/4 c. shortening & brown
meatballs.  Remove meatballs & drain fat.

1 bottle (12 oz.) chili sauce
1 jar (10 oz.) grape jelly

Heat together in skillet, stirring constantly until jelly is melted. 
add meatballs & stir until completely coated.  Simmer uncovered for
30 minutes.

2 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/4 c. chopped green peppers
1/4 c. chopped onion
16 oz. can crushed pineapple, drained
1 T. seasoned salt

Mix throughly and chill at least an hour.
Serve with crackers.

2 3oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/2 c. sour cream
1/4 t. garlic salt
6 oz. shredded swiss cheese
2 T. chopped parsley
2-3 T. coarsley ground pepper

Beat cream cheese on med. speed until smooth, scraping bowl often,
1-2 minutes. (I have also done it by hand.)  Add sour cream and garlic
and continue beating until well mixed.  By hand, stir in cheese and
parsley.  Refrigerate at least 2 hours and shape into a ball or log.
Roll in pepper to completely coat.  Serve refrigerated and serve with
crackers.

My Mouth is Still Watering...I Want More!

Click above for more great appetizers!