By tamara
This weekend, Ray Lewis will play the last game of his football career – the Super Bowl. No matter the outcome, it is sure to be a great game with an emotional conclusion. Although I spent my high school years in San Francisco and cheered on Steve Young, I have to admit that I would love to see Lewis leave on a high note. It’s pretty impressive to have an NFL career that has spanned 17 years, so I think he’s earned the right to go out with a win. The weird thing is that a few years ago, I probably could have cared less about watching the game, let alone who was playing in it. My focus was on feeding the crowd gathered at my house. This year, however, I look forward to yelling at the television alongside my husband and sons, while throwing back some incredible munchies and a few libations. Since my attention will be divided between the living room and the kitchen, my menu will need to be simple. If you also have a crowd to feed, but don’t want to miss any of the action, consider adding a few of these delicious creations to your Super Bowl spread.
1. Individual 7-Layer Dip
No Super Bowl party would be complete without some dip and chips. Unfortunately, placing dip in a large bowl makes it easy for people to double-dip (no thank you!) and it soon looks like a hot mess. Instead, get some clear Dixie cups and make individual proportions. Your guests can take it with them anywhere without it sliding off a plate and you won’t have to chastise anyone for double-dipping.
2. Nacho Potato Skins
Forget the traditional potato skins with cheese and bacon. Kick things up a notch by combining two guy favorites, nachos and potatoes! The recipe is super simple and you can toss on any toppings you would find on your Nacho Bell Grande, like black olives, onions and salsa. Olé!
3. Crab Wontons
If you can’t afford to add crab legs to your menu, these little puff pastries will fit the bill. It literally takes less than 20 minutes to make and bake these, and even less time to watch them disappear. My family can eat four or five batches of these yummy delights, so be sure to have some extra on hand. I guarantee they’ll score a touchdown with your friends and family, too.
4. Mini Chicken & Waffles
If you have ever visited Atlanta, you know you can’t pass up the chance for some chicken and waffles made by Gladys Knight. This recipe downsizes her original recipe and adds a little flair by adding a peach-horseradish maple syrup drizzle over the top. It’s an unexpected appetizer that any Southerner would be thrilled to find on the menu.
5. Sweet Chili Wings
No Super Bowl menu is complete without some chicken wings. Although you could add the regular buffalo-style wings or even some fried wings, I prefer to change things up with these sweet and spicy grilled wings. Sticky and sweet, they are ready to eat in under an hour.
6. Cookie Dough Eggrolls
My favorite part of the buffet is the dessert section. Most parties will have cookies, cupcakes and pie, but these warm and gooey chocolate chip eggrolls are amazing! Your guests will be begging for the recipe and seconds! If you want to keep with the football motif, pop on a few football truffles for decoration; they are delicious and simple to make. Do you have a favorite Super Bowl recipe? Share it with us on Facebook or Twitter!