A cupcake tasting at a Super Bowl gathering? Probably not. A salsa tasting? Absolutely.
Put out a jarred tomato version (pick a scorcher), a freshly chopped raw tomato-onion-chile-cilantro mix, plus one based on tomatillos and smoky chipotle (see recipe). And do more than dip chips.
Tacos: Set out guacamole, chopped fresh cilantro and piping hot sautéed chicken or beef strips, plus warm tortillas.
Quesadillas: A half-hour before kickoff, fold flour tortillas in half, tuck Jack cheese slices inside and arrange the folded packets on a baking sheet. To serve, heat cheese-filled tortillas in a 400-degree oven just until cheese begins to melt. Serve immediately.
Tostadas: Arrange crisp-fried corn tortilla rounds on a baking sheet. Spread a tablespoon of canned refried beans atop each, sprinkle with shredded cheese. Heat in a 400-degree oven until cheese begins to melt. Serve.
CHICAGO TRIBUNE
