I Throw Parties for a Living—This is My Favorite Trader Joe’s Frozen Appetizer
Liz Curtis and a spread of appetizers
Parade
Appetizers might be small, but that doesn’t mean they’re cheap. The little snacks have a way of adding up in a big way, whether you’re hosting a holiday cocktail party or building a charcuterie board for a nice dinner party with friends. To help you make your appetizer budget go a bit further we chatted with Liz Curtis, the founder of Table + Teaspoon, a party-planning and tablescaping company. She’s been throwing parties professionally for years, so she’s learned a thing or two about keeping soirées fun, delicious and on-budget. We recently connected with Curtis thanks to her collaboration with iconic chocolate company Ferrero Rocher and were so impressed by her smart and simple tips that we asked her to share them with us (and, in turn, all of you). Here are some of her top tips for fun, festive (and frugal) apps.
Related: How Many Apps Do You Need Per Person?
Courtesy Ferrero Rocher
The Best Budget Appetizer Tips (That Still Feel Luxe)
? Stop By Trader Joe’s or Costco. These fan-favorite stores have an enthusiastic following—and some great deals. Curtis loves one app in particular that’s sold at both places—mac and cheese bites. You can serve them as-is, of course, or you can dress them up like Curtis does.
“Cook the balls according to the instructions, then place a dollop of aioli (homemade or store-bought) on a porcelain single-serving spoon with the mac and cheese ball over it (this holds the ball in place and adds more flavor), drizzle lightly with honey, and garnish with a microgreen or sprout,” she says. “The result is an easy, inexpensive, delicious bite!”
? Lean into the carbs. “I always have a plethora of cracker and bread options to go with my cheese and charcuterie plates,” says Curtis. “This is an inexpensive way to make sure that people are full because they can carb-load in lieu of an entire meal if necessary.”
? Spread things out. Make your entire party feel luxe by dividing up expensive things, like nuts and candies, and placing them around your party. This party trick can also help remind guests to eat. “Assorted nuts and candies in bowls placed around your party is an effective way to make sure that people can nibble and elevate their blood sugar,” says Curtis. “The last thing you want are grumpy, hangry, or overserved guests!”
? Try a smaller version of the trendy seafood tower. Shellfish towers are popping up at restaurants all over the country and are always a fun and festive way to celebrate the holidays. To bring the trend home without way overspending, grab a pan and some ice. “Cover a paella pan or baking sheet with crushed ice and your favorite chilled seafood options with condiments laid out in small ramekins,” says Curtis.
? Popcorn’s not just for the movies. It’s easy to dress popcorn up for a party and it’s one of the most economical snacks out there. You don’t even have to make your own. “I love a popcorn station for a tighter budget,” says Curtis. “Buy Chinese takeout containers, and fill them with ready-made popcorn. For sweet, you can use kettle corn. For savory, use regular popcorn and sprinkle parmesan and truffle oil on top for easy elegance.”
? Yes you can have caviar on a beer budget. A tin of caviar is a great way to elevate any party and is especially fun for New Year’s Eve celebrations because it’s a natural pairing with Champagne. And with a little planning, you can turn caviar into a budget-friendly moment at your next gathering. “Rather than putting out a huge tin on the buffet table, I place a tray near the front door with a small tin of caviar, chips (Sea Salt Pop Chips work best), and Meyer lemon creme fraiche (or sour cream) next to a chilled bottle of vodka and shot glasses,” says Curtis. “Each guest gets one on their way into the party, which sets the tone for the evening!”
