5 Party Recipes for Dips, Drinks, Bites, and Dessert
From no-cooking appetizers and a no-fuss sangria recipe to recipes for caramelized sausage and banana ice cream with praline, the Party section offers recipes with options for serving multiple types of dishes at a party. Other recipes in this section include olive oil dip for bread, bean and corn salsa, mixed-fruit sangria, and banana ice cream tossed with almond praline. Recipes and other offerings in this section offer many options for sharing.
Why These Party Recipes Work
- No-Cook Appetizers: Olive oil bread dip and cowboy caviar are no-cook appetizers with creamy and crunchy textures.
- Warm Bite Food: Bacon-wrapped smokies provide a sweet and salty flavor contrast to cold drinks and appetizers.
- Batch Drink: Red sangria is a pre-mixed drink for multiple guests. It has fruit flavors.
- Sweet Course: Almond praline banana ice cream is a dessert option that adds sweetness and texture to the meal.
1. Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Bread Dip

This Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Dip for Bread is an easy-to-make appetizer recipe with great flavor. Offer this dip at parties and other social gatherings. Extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar are included in the recipe. Heartier types of bread pair well with this dip. Red pepper flakes and other ingredients, such as parmesan cheese and herbs, are added to this bread dip for flavor. This dip is appropriate for casual dinners and other occasions when you have visitors. It has more flavor than olive oil bread dips.
2. Traditional Red Sangria: Summer Cocktail with Various Fresh Fruits

This Easy Classic Red Sangria recipe is perfect for meal planning and serving guests. The recipe can be prepared ahead of time for up to several hours. This red wine and fruit recipe includes oranges and apples and is a good summer serving option for entertaining. Key ingredients include dry red wine, brandy, orange juice, and sugar to counteract other sour ingredients. Red wine quality will influence the taste of red wine coolers, so you may want to use a red wine that you enjoy drinking on its own. During preparation, muddling fruit with sugar releases juices and other liquids and flavors from the fruit to produce an appealing mixture. Possible mistakes during preparation include overmuddling the fruit, which can make the fruit mushy. Gently stir the mixture to combine ingredients without overmuddling the fruit. Serve cold and garnish with sliced fruit for color. Store leftovers. It is best when served within 24 hours, as the slices of fruit will become mushy over time.
3. Cowboy Caviar with Rotel: A New Spin on Ingredients for a Colorful Dip

Cowboy Caviar with Rotel is a colorful, tasty dip for parties and other casual weeknight meals. The black beans, corn, and other ingredients in this dip provide both crunchy and creamy textures and a slightly spicy taste. This dip is a healthy option and good alternative snack. It can be served with tortilla chips or used as a topping for grilled chicken. Variations of this dip recipe can be prepared to suit individual tastes. All diners are likely to enjoy this dip.
4. Crispy Brown Sugar Bacon Smokies: A Versatile Side Dish for Any Event

Crispy Brown Sugar Bacon Smokies are an appetizer made with bacon-wrapped sausages topped with brown sugar glaze. Crispy Brown Sugar Bacon Smokies are good for tailgating and other casual holiday gatherings. They are easy to make and very popular. Thick slices of bacon are wrapped around each smokie and baked until crispy. They are then glazed. Crispy Brown Sugar Bacon Smokies will be a hit with your guests.
5. Creamy Banana Ice Cream with Almond Praline

This banana ice cream recipe makes a tasty dessert with a creamy texture and other ingredients, such as almond praline pieces. Many of the creamy qualities of this dessert come from the banana. This dessert is a good choice for any occasion. Some steps in this recipe can be completed in advance, allowing you to make the dessert at your convenience.