Quick-Fix Food to the Rescue : Informal Buffet Is a Boon to Harried Holiday Entertainers

The ease of an informal buffet, highlighted by quick-fix convenience foods, comes to the rescue of weary holiday entertainers this New Year’s Eve.

Rather than spend time with lengthy food preparation, opt instead for simple variations of traditional buffet items, taking advantage of pre-packaged foods such as mini cheese balls to serve made-at-home dishes like this Hot Crab Dip.

The dip can be made in a hurry with frozen crabmeat and a few other staples. Offer a choice of raw vegetable dippers and the buffet is on its way.

HOT CRAB DIP

2 tablespoons butter or margarine

2 tablespoons flour

1 cup milk

1 (8-ounce) package sharp cold pack Cheddar cheese

1/4 cup chopped green onion

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon parsley flakes

1 (6-ounce) package frozen crabmeat, thawed, drained and flaked

Melt butter in medium saucepan. Add flour and mix well. Gradually add milk and cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened. Add cheese and stir until melted. Blend in green onion, Worcestershire, parsley and crabmeat. Heat just until bubbly. Makes 2 1/2 cups.