Anonymous wrote:DCUM will provably consider this “trashy”, but my grandmother (who made huge, homemade banquets), would make the Rotel queso, and it was alwys a big hit. As a bonus, it doesn’t have to be served at a specific temperature, and isn’t especially sensitive to spoilage.

That's because nothing in it is actually food.

That said, it's delicious.

DCUM will provably consider this “trashy”, but my grandmother (who made huge, homemade banquets), would make the Rotel queso, and it was alwys a big hit. As a bonus, it doesn’t have to be served at a specific temperature, and isn’t especially sensitive to spoilage.

Caprese salad or skewers

Baked artichoke dip with crackers. This would hold up fine to a short trip in the car.

It’s sort of an app/dessert item but cannoli chips and cannoli dip are always popular

Anonymous wrote:I’ve always wanted to try the Christmas tree pull apart breads. https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a50528/pull-apart-christmas-tree-recipe/

In this vein I'm going to try the puff pastry with pesto Christmas tree. My crowd is small and has simple tastes, in other words there isn't anyone I'm trying to impress.

https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/8316336/cheese-twist-christmas-tree/

I’ve always wanted to try the Christmas tree pull apart breads. https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a50528/pull-apart-christmas-tree-recipe/

Bacon wrapped dates

These aren’t particularly Christmas themed but you can arrange them in a Christmas tree shape and use red and green salsa for dipping. I’ve made them in advance before and sliced at the last minute.

https://www.pauladeen.com/recipe/santa-fe-wraps/

Need options for something that can be made in advance and travel easily a short distance. Thanks!