Have a Lucky New Year

Potluck Party Tips

Let's go back in time, remember the fun and cozy New Year's Eve potluck? Not a bad idea given the state of the economy. Sharing the work and expenses is a valid option vis à vis splurging over a Benjamin Franklin at a bar for mediocre fare and limited cocktails. If you decide to stay in to ring in the New Year, here are some tips and techniques for throwing a successful, affordable holiday potluck.

Hosting the Party
If you are thinking about hosting or organizing the potluck, here are a few things to bear in mind:

Assign a category of food to each RSVP. While having 10 types of pie looks festive, there is a huge possibility of missing elements of the meal. Make sure that the meal spans all courses including appetizers, salads, sides, entrees, and desserts.

In the ever-changing world of cuisine, people's preferences can be quite different. Have a variety of foods including those sensitive to the needs of both vegans and vegetarians.

Be certain that the venue is equipped with enough materials and space to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Dangerous bacteria forms when dishes are not kept at the proper temperature, which can cause all of your guests to get food poisoning.

Cook the main dish at the venue, as it may be a hassle (not to mention a mess) to transport a whole turkey or ham. Look for deals at your local grocery stores; most offer a free or discounted ham or turkey after you spend a certain amount.

Dish It Up
Sensible and savvy menu options?

Appetizers:

A big bowl of homemade hummus with toasted pitas and marinated olives as a garnish is not only healthy, but also delicious and filling.

A Mexican style layered dip with refried beans, tomatoes, sour cream, jalepeños and grated cheese will surely add a little spice to your holiday fête. Guacamole and queso dip are also other easy alternatives.

An assortment of cheeses with crackers is an oldie everyone enjoys, plus it's perfect with spirits of the season.

A fruit salads, crudités or stuffed tomatoes are healthy and colorful alternatives to overloading on carbs this holiday season.

Sides:

Casseroles are always a crowd pleaser, warm and wholesome for the holidays. Green Bean remains the choice casserole, but switch it up by adding some interesting ground sirloin, turkey or chicken.

Pasta is a sure shot for vegans and vegetarians to relish. Boil pasta, dice veggies, dress, and toss.

A simple Greek salad with cubes of fresh tomato, cucumber, feta and onion can be refreshing and enjoyable. Pair with a homemade vinaigrette on the side. Don't forget a dash of oregano! A creamier version is made with simple Greek yogurt, fresh crushed garlic, dill and paprika.

Entrées:

Chili con carne is delectable dish that warms you up from the winter chill.

A pasta bake is a sure fire way to comfort your guests as well as their palates.

Make the potluck extra lucky for the New Year according to Polish tradition with a dish of sauerkraut.

Desserts:

It seems that most guests are interested in bringing the sweets. A variety of desserts will make a great sampler after dinner (or before if your sweet tooth is numbed with alcohol). Favorites are cheesecake topped with fruit, fresh pies, and assorted colorful cookies. The chocolate category must be covered by penalty of...we'll tell you later! Basically anything with sugar will be a winner.

BYOB

The most expensive part of a holiday party can be the booze, therefore split the cost by making the party BYOB: Bring Your Own Booze. If coordinated efficiently, the bar should have an array of booze from hard alcohol, to wine, and beer. Save by purchasing from a wholesale giant like Costco or Sam's Club. Discounts on wine and beer are substantial compared to local liquor stores, and hard alcohol ranges from half gallons to gallons for a price around $20-30. Most importantly, don't forget the champagne to toast in the New Year. Cheers!

— Written by Christina Licata

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