Holiday Appetizers
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Amy Elizer
"We can serve it up in a fun glass, and this can be a fun appetizer."
Chuck Denney
Nothing says ‘Happy Holidays” like that old traditional Christmas favorite - shrimp Ceviche. “Sah-veech” Well, who says you can’t create new traditions in the kitchen? At least that’s the view of Amy Elizer, Ut Extension agent in Madison County and one of Santa’s prized elves when it comes to holiday foods.
Amy Elizer
"The thing about a dish like this is you can tweak it a little bit to meet your taste buds, so to speak."
Chuck Denney
Amy gave this cooking demonstration recently in Jackson.
Amy Elizer
"So it looks complicated, but it's really not."
Chuck Denney
On her plate - holiday appetizers that are tasty and attractive, yet easy to make.
Amy Ellizer
“I think the thing for the hostess whether you’re going or whether they’re coming to your house is to have things that are easy to do. They’re simple, and if they’re healthful, that’s nice but not necessary.”
Chuck Denney
Amy says it's 2007 and time to get beyond Chex Mix, peanut brillte, and Heaven forbid, fruit cake. We need real appetizers.
Amy Elizer
"I like using real Mozzarella because it's low in fat naturally and has a great flavor."
Chuck Denney
Here’s one of her creations - pesto coins, made with cheese and nuts. Another big hit with the audience – sun-dried tomato cheesecake. Just a little bite here is loaded with flavor. Sausage bundles are made with meat, onions and pastry. Almost all these appetizers can be made, then put in the freezer, and heated up later – a perfect solution to hectic holiday cooking. Ellizer says, when it comes to cooking, Santa likes those who try something new.
Amy Elizer
“We need to try new things and be willing. It’s not an investment in our whole life. It’s just a bite of something. That’s what I tell, especially young kids I’m working with, just try it. You might like it.”
Chuck Denney
Not only is it fun to cook during the holidays, but tasty food also makes for a thoughtful and inexpensive gift.
Amy Elizer
"It's simple. We've all got to eat, so we know that's going to get used. It's not a gift that will just sit on a shelf somewhere."
Chuck Denney
Good eatin' is as much a part of Christmas as presents, trees and caroling. And with a little planning and creativity, we can be festive and fed.
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NOTE: You can find great holiday recipies at the UT Extension office in your county.
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