Everyone has a favorite food or a go-to drink, so it can be challenging to please every guest at your party. Instead of preparing a large meal with fewer options, DIY appetizers and cocktails are the perfect way to make sure everyone gets what he or she wants.

• Kung Pao Crudité Tray
  Crudités are the ultimate appetizer—fresh veggies accompanied by a flavorful dip? There’s nothing better!

  Kung Pao Dipping Sauce:

  • 1 c. mayonnaise
  • ⅛ c. sriracha
  • ⅛ c. rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp. hoisin sauce
  • 2 tsp. brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp. soy sauce
  • 2 tsp. sesame seeds
  • 1 garlic clove, peeled and minced

  Crudité:

  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 3 baby bok choy, leaves removed
  • 6 radishes, halved
  • 6 scallions, trimmed
  • 6 baby red bell peppers, halved
  • 1 c. snap peas

  
  
  Print Recipe
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together kung pao dipping sauce ingredients until smooth. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
  2. To serve, arrange vegetables on a platter with the kung pao dipping sauce.
  Serves 8-10

  

• Cranberry Whiskey Sour
  What’s a party without a signature drink? Mix things up with this pretty and flavorful classic that has a seasonal twist!

  Ingredients:

  • ¼ c. sugar
  • ¼ c. water
  • 2 tbsp. fresh rosemary
  • 6 oz. whiskey
  • 3 oz. sour mix
  • 16 oz. cranberry juice
  • Cranberries, for garnish
  • Rosemary sprigs, for garnish

  
  
  Print Recipe
  1. In a small pot over medium heat, whisk together sugar, water, and rosemary. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, creating a syrup. Remove from heat, strain to remove the rosemary, and refrigerate.
  2. Fill a shaker with ice and pour in whiskey, sour mix, cranberry juice, and simple syrup. Shake, and pour into ice-filled glasses. Garnish with cranberries and rosemary before serving.
  Makes 4 cocktails

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