Feature Friday: Holiday Entertaining Made Easy with Mushrooms

Enjoy all the season has to offer, and surprise your guests with a tasty mushroom appetizer.

With holiday season in full swing, have you thought about what appetizers to serve at your next get together? Why not fresh Canadian mushrooms? Fresh mushrooms are easy to prepare, flavourful, elegant, and are sure to keep your guests entertained before dinner.

Mushroom Fondue
Fondue is back. Especially the melted Swiss cheese version served with fresh mushrooms, whole or halved. Skewer and dip mushrooms (whites and browns are delicious) into your favourite cheese fondue mixture. Serve with dry white wine and let the conversation begin.

Mushroom Bruschetta
Need something that you can prepare ahead? Combine 2 cups chopped assorted mushrooms with minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, fresh basil, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and pepper to taste. Refrigerate several hours or overnight. Spoon onto lightly toasted slices of fresh bread. Sprinkle with grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Broil until mushrooms are cooked and cheese melts.

Mushroom Dippers
Use fresh whole or thick sliced mushrooms for dipping instead of crackers or chips. They’re nutritious, great for the calorie conscious and delicious.

Mushroom Kebabs
Thread mushrooms onto several bamboo skewers; brush with oil and broil, turning often. Remove mushrooms from skewers onto platter. Serve hot, with a ranch style dressing for dipping. Tasty and simple.

No matter what recipe you use, your guests will be not only entertained but also amazed by the versatility of the mushroom.

posted by Brittany