Here’s an easy appetizer spread idea along with a simple iced tea/lemonade bar! Food is key in my humble opinion to ANY event, gathering, or even just a person popping in to your home to say hello. A glass of water, some nuts, a snack – anything! It doesn’t need to be fancy or cost a lot, it just needs to be thoughtful.
And now I will subject you to one of my more passionate soapboxes. Nothing bugs me more than being invited to a home where the host never checks in or offers a glass of water ( There I said it.. :/ it bugs ). A party or get together with out something to eat…is a fail. ( I’m getting bold here :/) There’s a new trend these days to have parties in weird hours of the day offering no “real” food, just over-priced desserts and sugary drinks, with you leaving the party at meal time so desperate for something savory you must immediately go out to eat. I think the thought is often a desire to save money or a desire to not make a big production, but with a little thought and planning it can be just as affordable and simple to serve a actual meal, or at least a spread that will feel like one!
My plea to the “in-between meal time” party throwers: put something of substance out there! Crackers, cheese, nuts, dried fruit, veggies, hummus, really anything healthy and filling! Another challenge to the “in-between meal time party throwers is: meals can truly be simple, affordable and delicious… Just make a meal, and throw the party at a meal time! Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner! I know I’ve been a little dramatic here, but in all seriousness, this can be so impactful and thoughtful for our guests. We have such a great opportunity to practically serve and care for one another by serving and sharing a meal together. For less than $30-40, you can throw a relatively easy pancake breakfast, simple quiche brunch, easy taco bar, chili dinner, baked potato bar, or a pasta bar night! You could also make a beautiful chinese chicken salad, fresh fruit, with iced tea, homemade cookies, cupcakes, or a big salad, a couple of pizzas or hot dogs, baked beans, potato salad, and a fresh green salad. All those meals can be done for $30-40 to serve 10-15 people! It’s not about money at all – its about the thought! For the same cost of all the snicky snacks, candy and desserts, a delish healthy meal could be provided with your guests leaving happy and full – able to go home – not scrambling to find the closest In-N-Out to 
feed your starving kids! Here’s to more breakfast, lunch and dinner parties, or at least a spread that resembles or replaces a traditional meal!
Products Used:
| Pitcher | Beverage Dispenser | Glass Bottles | Paper Straws |
