Summer is winding down and Labor Day weekend is fast approaching. However, there’s still time to enjoy a few more outdoor barbecues or picnics before the weather forces us back inside for our fun with family and friends.
Whether its potluck or snacks you’re planning to serve at your party, you may find it surprising how useful wontons can be. We tend to think of them as strictly for Chinese fare; however, they also come in handy for a number of appetizers or snacks.
Here are two recipes that use wontons. The first, Wonton Turkey-Cheese Cups, makes a great appetizer, and the second, Crispy Parmesan Chips, provides an easy-to-make, tasty snack.
Either or both would be a delicious addition to any get-together or Labor Day celebration!
WONTON TURKEY-CHEESE CUPS
48 wonton wrappers
1 1/4 pounds lean ground turkey
2 cups (8-ounces) shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
1 cup fat-free ranch salad dressing
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped ripe olives
Press wonton wrappers into miniature muffin cups coated with cooking spray. Keep wrappers covered with a damp paper towel until ready to bake. Bake at 375 degrees for 5 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool for about 2 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks.
In a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray, cook the turkey over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. In a large bowl, combine the turkey, cheese, ranch dressing, onions and olives. Spoon by rounded tablespoonsful into wonton cups.
Place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 5-6 minutes or until heated through. Serve warm. Makes 4 dozen.
Note: Ground beef can be used instead of turkey, if desired.
CRISPY PARMESAN CHIPS
30 wonton wrappers
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried basil, crushed
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Using a sharp knife, cut wonton wrappers diagonally in half to form 60 triangles. Coat a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange one-third of the triangles on baking sheet.
Stir together oil, garlic and basil. Lightly brush wonton triangles with some of the oil mixture; sprinkle with some of the cheese. Bake 8 minutes or until golden. Cool completely. Repeat with remaining wonton triangles, oil mixture and cheese. Makes 60 chips.
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