Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Easy Last Minute Holiday Ideas


OK, so the Christmas countdown begins and we're all racing to the finish line. The last minute Holiday rush can have us all feeling frazzled, but there's still time to whip up something with a "Wow" factor. Here are some ideas that are low on effort but high on impact!

Savory Shrimp Spread
This recipe was given to me by a neighbor years ago and it's been my go to dish ever since. With just a few ingredients, it's quick to fix and is sure to be a hit with the holiday crowd and a party pleaser any time of year. Get ready for recipe requests!

Ingredients:
(1) 8oz brick of cream cheese softened
(1) stick of butter softened
(2) 4oz cans of tiny shrimp (rinsed & drained)
(1) medium to large onion finely chopped

Blend cream cheese and butter.
With a fork throughly mix in onion & shrimp.
Serve with assorted crackers, bagel crisps etc.
Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

*This makes a lot and will easy serve a crowd of 20,
for smaller gatherings cut the recipe in half.
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Pretty Palmiers
My french Mother-in-law used to buy these at a local french bakery. Named "Palmiers" as they resemble the top of a palm tree, I love the crispy texture, not too sweet taste and delicate look. I'm getting pretty brave with baking lately and actually decided to tackle these this year. I could not believe how easy they were to make! No mixing, no measuring... just roll, sprinkle, cut and bake!

I found the recipe HERE

Be sure to click on the easy to follow how to video at the top of the page.
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Icy Votives
Aren't these gorgeous? Used in multiples as a centerpiece or set about the house, these little frosty numbers will definitely add some cool to the party! If you've got 24 hours, plastic cups, some petals, greens, and votive candles you can do this. Go natural with a few poinsettia blossoms, a sprig of greenery and fresh berries. Or dig into your stash of Christmas decor and fake it. Either way this sure makes and elegant impression!

You can find the simple instructions here at Better Homes and Gardens
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Wishing you all a Christmas that's Merry and Bright and filled with...




4 comments:

Elen Grey said...

The Icy Votives! Oh, my.

Wishing you all the joy and wonder of the season. It's been a pleasure reading your tweets and posts this year.

Elen

Feast on the Cheap said...

Such pretty votives! And palmiers are my all time faves - my mom whips up a savory-style pinwheel with prosciutto, parmesan and honey mustard. I special request them at every single family event...

Happy holidays to the hippest hostesses we know!

Anonymous said...

What great recipes and ideas... love the presentation of each! Happy New Year!!!

Sandy at Ooh La Frou Frou said...

All I have to say is YUM and GORGEOUS! The best recipes are the tried and true ones and they are the recipes that I love to collect!! And those votives are amazing -- thanks for sharing, sweetie. Best wishes for a fabulous new year to one of my tweeter besties!