Holiday Recipes

Whether you are hosting a festive party or just getting together with friends, these recipes will help make your celebrations extra special. From elegant appetizers to a Christmas cocktail, here are some recipes to add a touch of sophistication to your holiday gatherings. Let’s get started! By Kristi Spencer

Cranberry Salsa

The 5-Minute Festive Cranberry Jalapeno Salsa is the perfect party dish. Fresh cranberries, cilantro and a little jalapeno kick will bring rave reviews!

INGREDIENTS:

12 ounces fresh cranberries 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped 1/2 cup cilantro 4 green onions 2 tablespoons of lime juice Pinch of salt

INSTRUCTIONS:

Place all ingredients in a food processor and pulse until desired consistency. Chill in the fridge for a couple of hours to allow the salsa to blend. Serve with tortilla chips or over cream cheese with crackers.

White Christmas Sangria

The holidays are a time for family, friends and, most importantly, good cheer! This festive drink is sure to please any crowd with its beautiful Christmas colors and light, sweet flavor. The sugared rosemary garnish is an extra-special touch that will have everyone raising their glasses in holiday cheer.

INGREDIENTS:

1 green apple 1 red apple 1 heaping cup fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds 1 large sprig rosemary 1 bottle of medium sweet white wine (Reisling or Pinot Grigio work great) ½ cup white grape juice ¼ cup sugar 1 can club soda

Garnish Rosemary A few tablespoons of sugar

INSTRUCTIONS:

Chop apples into small pieces. Add apples and the rest of the ingredients to a pitcher. Stir until the sugar has dissolved. Put the pitcher in the fridge for an hour or so. While the sangria is chilling, make your rosemary garnish. Pour sugar into a shallow bowl. Lightly wet the rosemary, shake off excess water. Roll the sprigs in the sugar until they are coated. This will make your drink extra special and sparkly!