How to Make an Easy Appetizer on a Budget

Have you ever accidentally invited a crowd over without having time to run to the grocery store? Worse, yet...have you scheduled a cocktail party and found yourself with an overextended budget? I have found myself in the latter situation and came up with a great recipe that can be mixed and matched to fit any wallet. Here is my take on a crowd-pleasing appetizer called Easy Veggie Appetizer. It's a great starter for any and all occasions and costs next to nothing.

Ingredients (6 servings)
1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
1 or 2 purple onions, thinly sliced
2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced (choose your favorite - I like any of the heirloom variety)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup white wine vinegar

Instructions

- Combine vegetable oil, sugar, salt, pepper, dill and vinegar.

- Arrange cucumber, onion and tomato on a pretty platter; drizzle with vinegar dressing

mixture. Cover lightly and chill for 45 to 60 minutes before serving.

- Garnish if desired. (fresh dill sprigs are what I use)

This recipe can be altered in so many ways, but I have found this is a good combination for most people. I sometimes will also add shiitake mushrooms just because they are so hearty. However, if you ever use any type of mushroom be sure and not drizzle until you are ready to serve, because they will absorb liquid and lose their firmness. Have fun and mix it up.