Quick and Easy Crowd pleasers: Try these foolproof secret weapon recipes for your next potluck

DIY BURRATA (TOAST) BAR Ingredients

Perfect for any season – simply replace the fruit with whatever is in season. 

Prosciutto, burrata, insert seasonal fruit of choice here, and glaze of your choice. Our favorite glaze is the old faithful fig, or cherry if you’re looking to try something new. If you already have apricot or mixed berry jelly in the fridge, feel free to swap those in as well. 

For fruit we like to stick in the melon or berry family: watermelon, honeydue, cantaloupe pair nicely with the salt of the prosciutto but a smaller strawberry or blueberries works just fine. 

While this can remain a carb-free starter, you can also include some pre-toasted ciabatta or baguette for extra points with your friends. Cut the bread in half, leave them intact along the side.. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil (or sub butter)l, salt, pepper, garlic powder (minced garlic for those not afraid to commit) on both halves, and stack them back together. Wrap in aluminum foil and toast for 15 minutes or until crispy. Cut into smaller slices before heading to the potluck. 

1. Buratta – place in the center of the tray – she is the main event here, let her shine!
2. Meat of choice, the more the merrier – feel free to add hard salami or additional hams, place around the sides
3. Add watermelon, pears, peaches, fig honeydew – whatever is in season
4. Drizzle or (place in ramekins) glazed balsamic, and add a few additional fruit jams along with it
5. Feel free to add a toasted baguette or your favorite GF cracker! 

QUICK TIP: Don’t forget your bread plates! Equip your guests with the tools to succeed – and not have them eating right off the platter. Stack a pile of appetizer plates and cocktail napkins next to your dish. Be sure to bring the right utensils if you’re bringing something that requires something special, in this case bringing pre-sliced bread, and a small spoon will minimize the clean up of your host. 

HAM (OR TURKEY) SLIDERS

These are the simplest yet most crowd satisfying sliders. If you haven’t seen them on your social media feed yet, I’m sure you will soon. Truly addicting, perfect for a game day snack, or any block party or gathering in any season. Feel free to replace the meat with turkey or pulled chicken. Don’t miss out on trying these super easy ham and cheese sliders that will be the most popular app at the party. 

INGREDIENTS

• ¾ cup melted butter (honestly sometimes we use more, but assess once they’re drenched if you’re set)
• 1 ½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
• ½ tablespoon garlic powder 
• 24 mini Hawaiian rolls
• 1 pound thinly sliced cooked deli ham
• 1 pound thinly sliced Swiss cheese, (you can sub American if you have it, or cheddar if you’re subbing turkey for the ham)

QUICK TIP: When hosting don’t forget to go that extra mile and ensure you are aware of all guests’ dietary restrictions! Ham can be especially tricky so double check the needs of your attendees. 

GO TIME:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, and dried onion in a bowl.
3. Place bottom pieces in a layer in the prepared baking dish. Next, layer ham & cheese of choice. Cover with the tops and pour the butter mixture on top of the buns. 
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until tops begin to brown.