The holiday season is in full swing. For some people, the social demands are many. Even if you lead a simple & quiet life, invitations to participate in gatherings that involve bringing food can be alarming. At the parties you do choose to attend, of course, you want your dish to cause a stir.
Time being even more at a premium as the year comes to an end, I thought I would make a few suggestions that are a little different than what I have been offering so far this year. Sometimes, all it takes is an ingredient that is not being used by your friends and family. The one I have had a good reaction with is Achiote, a condiment made from annatto seed powder – the paste is affordable and fun to use. Another way to be different is in the presentation. In my community, there is rosemary growing everywhere. Once I remove the leaves, I like to use the sticks as skewers.
Other holiday food demands come in the form of more formal sit down meals. I, personally, welcome something other than the standard turkey or ham. The additional plus of serving fish or shellfish is the cooking time: Quick! I have made a couple of the dishes very light as a change from the more traditional holiday fare.
The recipes are recommended as appetizers or main dishes but of course they are interchangeable. The recipes are still sized for two but all of them will double, triple, etc. with no problem.
Recipes:
Appetizers
Main Dishes
