Sandwich & Cracker Spreads

Some people are simply born to entertain – not on stage, not on film, but at home. They make it look so easy, they’re so relaxed!

The trick may be a little up-front effort. So with potlucks, parties and impromptu gatherings filling the year-end calendar, arm yourself with quick, make-ahead spreads that can serve double duty.

Turn an every-day sandwich into something special. Just schmear good bread with one of the spreads, add sliced deli meat and cheese, a leafy green or some sprouts, salt and pepper. Luscious.

Or assemble a cracker plate so impressive your friends will wonder if you’ve slaved in the kitchen. Just fill small ramekins with these spreads and arrange on a platter with crackers and dried fruit. Beautiful.

SUN-DRIED TOMATO SPREAD

Hands-on time: 10 minutes
Time-to-table: 2 – 3 hours
Makes 1 cup

8 sun-dried tomato halves (about 1/4 cup)
1 roasted red pepper, drained (from a jar)
1/2 cup walnuts (toasted if you like)
1 clove shallot
1-1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon olive oil
Kosher salt to taste

Purée all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Refrigerate for 2 – 3 hours for flavors to meld.

NUTRITION ESTIMATE Per Tablespoon: 36Cal; 3g Tot Fat; 0g Sat Fat; 2g Carb; 0g Fiber; 95mg Sodium; 0mg Cholesterol; Weight Watchers 1 point

Kitchen Parade is written by second-generation food columnist Alanna Kellogg and features fresh, seasonal dishes for every-day healthful eating and occasional indulgences. Send a favorite make-ahead sandwich or cracker spread recipe to e-mail.

CRANBERRY ORANGE SPREAD

Hands-on time: 10 minutes Time-to-table: 2 – 3 hours Makes 1½ cups (when made with cheese)

4 ounces goat cheese (or substitute cream cheese, can eliminate if using only for sandwich spread)
1/2 cup canned whole cranberry sauce
2 tablespoons finely diced onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Zest from an orange
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 – 2 teaspoons horseradish

Combine all ingredients. Refrigerate for 2 – 3 hours for flavors to meld.

NUTRITION ESTIMATE Per Tablespoon 39Cal; 2g Tot Fat; 1g Sat Fat; 2g Carb; 0g Fiber; 41mg Sodium; 4mg Cholesterol; Weight Watchers 1 point