New Year's Eve Party Appetizer

Looking for something a bit different this year for your New Year's Eve party menu? Here are some tips to help this year's party be your best ever. The key to planning a party menu is variety. When it comes to party appetizers think of and serve from the following four categories: hot, cold, crunchy, and creamy. Another great tip is to add a fresh vegetable tray and a fresh fruit tray. You can whip up an elegant fruit dip in no time. However, my favorite party appetizer has always been a cheese ball. A cheese ball is something which is delightfully simple and versatile, with the only drawback being the potential for holding up a buffet line. Instead of making one or two giant cheese balls or logs, create miniature cheese bites. Serve these delicious tidbits with fresh vegetables, crackers, or toast. These tasty treats will help keep your buffet line moving and your guests coming back for more.

New Year's Eve Party Ham & Cheese Bites
Makes about 6 dozen.
2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese or neufchatel cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 package (8 ounces) shredded cheese of your choice
2 tablespoons finely chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup ham of your choice, finely chopped (I like to use leftovers)
1 cup pecans, finely chopped (peanuts or walnuts also work here)

In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Stir in the next seven ingredients, combine thoroughly. Shape into 1/2" balls, then roll in the pecans. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour. Serve with fresh vegetables, crackers, or toast.