Snacks Give Good Pleasure

I want to share a secret to having a party by yourself; for yourself. I call it Snack Tray. You won’t need booze or even music - just a variety of stuff on a paper plate. A Snack Tray utilizes whatever you have in the frig and pantry. I purposely do not shop for this delightful noontime treat or sunset appetizer arrangement. I will pull out Ritz Crackers; light cream cheese; black olives. I then make canapés for myself and Lady Shania K. Bellissimo, SKD (my dog). The treats will always be even in number due to my recognizable OCD. Two, four, six, eight. Who do we appreciate? Ja’Nee! On another occasion, out comes the box of Triscuits; morsels of cheddar cheese; and green olives. Or it could be a day when I crave Wheat Thins; sliced ham and a dab of sweet mustard. The plate is always pretty, and I use a placemat and napkin. I feel like Queen-for-a Day and it cost me next to nothing.

My favorite Snack Tray items are the club sandwiches my mom made for our family picnics. These are a little more extravagant, but I’m certain you’ll have everything you need right under your nose. On white bread you will spread the following layers: margarine; regular cream cheese; canned deviled ham, and peanut butter. Top with another slice of white bread; leave crusts on; and cut into quarters. Voila… a meal! Of course we’re not going to give a second thought to cholesterol, as the sandwiches are always served with a jar of artichokes in oil.

I love a good Snack Tray because it makes me feel like a kid again. It’s quick and easy, and I have a selection of goodies right in the kitchen. My Grandma Dau served afternoon snacks when I visited her in Chadron, Nebraska. Grandma would pull out cold cuts; crackers; cheese; leftover vegetable medley, and make a meal that would equal Rachael Ray or Emeril Lagasse. We would sit at her small dining table and enjoy these “yum yums” as she would call them. This was topped off with Little Debbie’s and cold coffee. Those were the days! No chicken wraps; quesadillas; hot pockets; stuffed tater tots. If there comes a time you can’t afford a fast food frenzy, and you don’t want to spend an additional $4.00 on a gallon of gas, think Snack Tray instead.

Must run as I’m off to raid the cabinets! I’m thinking potato crisps; tuna; celery; and crunchy peanut butter. Even the dog is wagging her tail - she knows what’s coming and it’s going to be good. It’s our little secret.