Be ready for a holiday crowd

Although cookie swaps are always popular, it seems that every time I offer to bring something to a gathering, the hostess asks for an appetizer. I have a couple of tried and true standards but am always looking for something new. A fun and easy way to have lots of appetizers on hand is to host an "App Swap" and, no, you won't find these apps on your phone.

Send invitations through e-vite or by mail, and ask your guests to let you know what they plan to bring when they respond. This way you will have a wider variety. All of the guests are asked to bring a favorite recipe that's been tripled or quadrupled. Each portion should serve eight to 12 and be well wrapped or in a food storage container. Everyone will leave with as many apps as they brought. Hopefully, there will be fun and laughter as everyone "swaps." Be sure everyone includes a card on each app with directions on how to store and serve.

Plan for a party

As a host, you can set up an antipasto platter and offer beverages such as wine or soft drinks. Create an antipasto platter with a couple of cheeses and some salami, some marinated vegetables, olives and hot peppers and serve with crackers, breadsticks and crusty bread. I also like to arrange a platter that includes a few of the appetizers brought to swap. On the night of the swap, I think it's easiest to serve appetizers that don't need to be heated, but that's a personal choice.

In your invitation, list suggestions such as cheese balls, snack mixes, chicken wings, spicy empanadas, chile con queso or other dips that can be prepared ahead. This time of year it's easy to purchase decorated containers or top food storage containers with a bow. Suggest that whoever brings cheese balls also include crackers so the appetizer is ready to serve.

Ask your guests to bring copies of their recipe for everyone or have recipe cards available for anyone who wants to copy a recipe. You can also create a simple cookbook after the first of the year when it's not so busy.

Pat Sinclair is author of "Baking Basics and Beyond." Reach her at patcooksandbakes.blogspot.com.