Easy to prepare snacks when having friends or family over

The long summer evenings are finally here and what more reason do you need to have friends or family around that the bright, hopefully sunny, evenings?

When it comes to having guests over, there’s often a need to entertain. While some people cook and others have BBQs, snacks are almost a must.

Yes, you can buy pre-made munchies from most supermarkets and convenience stores these days but with a little bit of effort you can be the host or hostess with the mostest and have your guests wishing you threw more get-togethers.

Here’s a few simple snack ideas you can put together relatively easy…

Savoury Snacks:

1. Caprese Skewers: Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls and fresh basil onto toothpicks. Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
2. Guacamole and Chips: Serve homemade or store-bought guacamole with a variety of tortilla chips.
3. Cheese and Charcuterie Board: Arrange an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, crackers, olives and nuts on a large platter.
4. Veggie Platter with Hummus: Slice up an assortment of colourful veggies (carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes) and serve with a variety of hummus flavours.
5. Mini Quesadillas: Fill small tortillas with cheese and your choice of fillings (e.g., chicken, black beans, peppers), then grill and cut into wedges.
6. Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Serve this warm, cheesy dip with bread slices or pita chips.

Sweet Snacks:

1. Fruit Platter: Arrange a variety of fresh fruits such as berries, melon, grapes and pineapple for a refreshing and colourful snack.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Melt some chocolate and serve with dippable items like strawberries, banana slices, marshmallows and pretzels.
3. Mini Cupcakes or Brownies: Easy to eat and always a hit, you can make these yourself or pick them up from a bakery or store.
4. Trail Mix: Create your own mix with nuts, dried fruits, chocolate chips and pretzels.

Having a snack while chilling with friends is one of life's simplest pleasures

Mixed Options:

1. Bruschetta: Toast slices of baguette and top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil and a sprinkle of salt.
2. Stuffed Mini Peppers: Fill mini bell peppers with cream cheese or a cheese spread and garnish with herbs.
3. Deviled Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs halved and filled with a seasoned yolk mixture.
4. Antipasto Skewers: Thread items like salami, cheese cubes, olives, cherry tomatoes and artichoke hearts onto skewers.

Quick Assembly:

1. Pita and Dip Trio: Offer a variety of dips like tzatziki, baba ghanoush and roasted red pepper dip with pita wedges or Doritos.
2. Popcorn: Season popcorn with different flavors like cheddar, caramel or a spicy mix.
3. Pretzel Bites with Mustard: Warm pretzel bites served with a variety of mustards or cheese sauce for dipping.
4. Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: Wrap slices of cantaloupe or honeydew with thin slices of prosciutto for a sweet and savory treat.

Drinks:

• Lemonade or Iced Tea: Have a couple of non-alcoholic options that are refreshing and easy to serve.
• Cocktail Station: Set up a simple cocktail station with ingredients for popular drinks like margaritas, mojitos, or sangria.
• Sparkling Water: Offer flavoured sparkling waters for a light and refreshing option.

These snacks are not only easy to prepare but also provide a good variety to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.

Most importantly, have fun with your friends.

Follow MyHome.ie on WhatsApp for all the latest property news and advice.