When entertaining , especially during the holidays , I like to have just as much fun as my guests . I find that calling in a “ little help ” from favorite local sources and using recipes that are easy to make , or can be made ahead , allows me to enjoy the festivities too .
COCKTAIL SKEWERS Skewers are an easy appetizer that can be made ahead of time and are simple to scale up or down to match your guest list . I change up the ingredients almost every time , but love including a piece of fruit as a sweet bite to counter the savory . This time I used salami , artichokes , mozzarella , red pepper , parsley , olives and blackberries . A quick balsamic glaze adds even more flavor . Place balsamic vinegar in a small pot and simmer until it thickens . Drizzle over skewers before serving .
LOBSTER ROLLS The Lobster Salad from Clean Catch Fish Market is perfect for a quick and delicious appetizer . I frequent the store not only for the seafood salads , dinners and made-to-order poke bowls , but also for the high-quality fish .