Party hors d’oeuvres are essential for entertaining with style and flair. However many people are unduly worried about the time it takes to make so many appetizers for their guests and worry that they won’t get it right. The good news is: party hors d’ oeuvres can be as complicated or as simple as time (or your budget!) allows.
So no matter what you call them: hors d’ oeuvres, canapés appetizers you can find dishes that suit you, your guests and your pocket.
Party hors d’ oeuvres don’t have to take a lot of time to make and while the job may be a bit finicky it doesn’t necessarily take a lot of skill or expertise to whip up a batch of tasty treats for your guests to enjoy before the main course. It’s quite likely that you’ll want to pay special attention to your main course but don’t forget that the hors d’ oeuvres you serve set the scene for the rest of the meal and can be a real talking point amongst your guests.
There is nothing worse than arriving at a dinner party hungry and realizing that the only thing on offer is drinks which you decide to leave alone because of your empty belly. Serving your guests well prepared and tasty hors d’ oeuvres is one way to keep your guests happy especially if the main meal is delayed for some reason and will allow them to enjoy their cocktails in comfort.
Luckily there are plenty of options available for even the most cash-strapped or hurried hostess. Examples of elegant hors d’ oeuvres you might want to consider include: caviar and Crème Fraiche on toasted bread rounds, cucumber slices with salmon mousse, mini phyllo shells filled with lemon zest chicken salad, mini pizza appetizer, radish canapes with salmon mousse, or shrimp and crab crostini.
These are popular and tasty but can be a bit pricey and may well be out of your budget especially if you are catering for a large number of guests. Fortunately a whole range of more affordable options is available even if your cash is limited. You will also save money if you start your hors d’oeuvres from scratch and don’t rely on store bought pastries and fillings.
