The author of Christmas Cooking For Dummies presents practical advice for theme parties, menu suggestions, and a range of needs, as well as seventy-five recipes for hors d'oeuvres, finger foods, and snacks. Original. First impressions count, and nothing makes a better first impression on dinner guests than those delectable little nibbles that you set out before the main course. And you don't have to limit yourself to serving appetizers at the beginning of a meal. Appetizers are first and foremost about entertaining. Introduction. Part I: Appetizer Basics. Chapter 1: Who Needs Appetizers? You Do! Chapter 2: Serving Appetizers and Drinks. Chapter 3: Organizing Your Kitchen So That You're Always Ready for a Party. Chapter 4: Putting It Together: Menus. Part II: Easy Pleasers: Simple Recipes You Should Know. Chapter 5: Cheese, Nuts, Popcorn, and Nibbles. Chapter 6: Tried and True: Classic Appetizers. Chapter 7: Dips and Dippers. Part III: Special Touches: Recipes to Impress. Chapter 8: Bread-Based Bites. Chapter 9: The Heat Is On: Hot Hors d'Oeuvres. Chapter 10: International Flare. Part IV: Formal and Fabulous: Starters for Sit-Down Dinners and Special Occasions. Chapter 11: At the Table: Formal Plated Appetizers. Chapter 12: Puttin' on the Dog: Extravagant Appetizers. Part V: The Part of Tens. Chapter 13: Ten Tips for Planning an Appetizer Party. Chapter 14: Ten-Plus Great Mail-Order and Internet Sources. Index.