Graduation Party Snacks

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

28 May 2009 11:41 AM

Get ready for the pomp and circumstance, the caps and gowns, tassels, diplomas and cheesy grins. Students around the world are gathering to mark a major milestone this weekend--graduation! Whether your child is graduating from kindergarten or high school, you'll likely be commemorating the event with some type of celebration that involves food.

For those of you who are leaving the hard labor to caterers or restaurant staff, consider the following simple snacks that can turn an ordinary commencement reception into an affair to remember:

BLACK BEAN AND CORN SALSA

Ingredients:

1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)

1 can whole kernel corn (drained)

1 small jar salsa

1/4 cup cilantro

2 medium diced tomatoes

1 small diced onion

2 tablespoons lime juice

Directions:

Mix together and serve with tortilla chips.

CORNED BEEF CHEESE BALL

Ingredients:

2 (8-ounce) package cream cheese (softened)

1 package deli corned beef

1 bunch green onions

2 tablespoons garlic powder

Directions:

Combine all ingredients.

Place in plastic wrap and form into a ball.

Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.

Serve with crackers.

HOMEMADE HUMMUS

Ingredients:

2 cans chick peas, drained

1/3 cup tahini

1/4 cup lemon juice

1 teaspoon salt

2 cloves garlic

2 scallions, roughly chopped

1/4 cup olive oil, plus a little extra for drizzling on top

1 pinch paprika

2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

Directions:

Place first 7 ingredients in a food processor.

Blend until smooth.

Transfer mixture to a serving bowl.

Drizzle olive oil over the hummus.

Sprinkle with paprika and parsley.

Serve with warm pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

SPINACH ARTICHOKE DIP

Ingredients:

2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened

1 cup mayonnaise

2 scallions, finely chopped

1 teaspoon garlic, minced

1 (14-ounce) can quartered artichoke hearts

1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained

1 cup grated Asiago cheese

1 cup sun dried tomato, chopped

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Grease a 2-quart baking dish.

In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, scallions and garlic. Stir in artichoke hearts, spinach, tomatoes and cheese.

Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the cheese begins to brown slightly.

Serve warm with crackers, pita bread, or tortilla chips.

Related Articles:

Graduation Party Recipes

Graduation Day Desserts

Gourmet Appetizers

Simple Snacks to Take on the Road

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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