There are probably more parties held this time of year than any other, and most hosts like to serve a variety of appetizers at those get togethers. While some youngsters prefer simple snacks, like chips and pretzels, there are a few appetizers that appeal to young and old alike. For example, I’ve found that these Toasted Ravioli and French Pizza Rounds are always a hit.
Toasted ravioli has been a longtime favorite with our grandchildren, ever since their families started taking them to “The Hill” in St. Louis for special dinners. While this Italian appetizer originated in St. Louis, it has become popular across the country. Now you can even buy bags of frozen toasted ravioli in most supermarkets, which makes it easy to whip up some right at home. Serve it with some marinara sauce on the side for dipping and you’re ready to enjoy.
Pizza is, of course, another beloved Italian dish. I’ve yet to see anyone ever turn down a slice, but it’s not always easy to prepare enough to for a large crowd at parties. It’s much easier, though, to make and serve these French Pizza Rounds, which don’t require the hassle of preparing your own dough.
The two appetizers complement each other, so I often serve both. You, too, may want to make them this year for your Christmas or New Year’s Eve party. Merry Christmas!
TOASTED RAVIOLI
2 tablespoons milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup dry Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
1/2 (27.5-ounce) package frozen sausage- or cheese-filled ravioli, thawed
Vegetable oil
Grated Parmesan cheese
Spaghetti or pizza sauce
Combine milk and egg in a small bowl. Place breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl or on a sheet of waxed paper. Dip ravioli in milk mixture and coat with breadcrumbs.
Pour oil to a depth of 2 inches in a Dutch oven; heat to 350 degrees. Fry ravioli, a few at a time, 1 minute on each side, or until golden. Drain on paper towels.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce. Makes about 2 dozen appetizers
Note: I use a whole bag of frozen ravioli and double the rest of the recipe, except for the bread crumbs, which I more than doubled.
FRENCH PIZZA ROUNDS
1 loaf of French bread, sliced into about 1/2-inch rounds
1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 - 3/4 pound browned pork sausage, drained
Small package sliced pepperoni
1/2 cup shredded Mozzarella
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or colby cheese
Combine tomato sauce and spices and then add sugar and browned, drained pork sausage. Spread by tablespoons over tops of French bread rounds. Top with a slice of pepperoni. Sprinkle with cheese. Put under a broiler for a few minutes, just until cheese melts. Serve warm or right out of the oven.
Note: You can use your favorite cheese topping. I like the Four Cheese Italian best, and I use the 8-ounce package so there’s plenty of melted cheese to make them delicious.
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