With the holidays rapidly approaching, I usually take some time to assess what’s on hand in the pantry and stock up on some easy go-to items. I call them my holiday helpers…snacks and quick meal staples that are super easy to prepare, healthy and delicious. Things like olives, artichoke hearts in oil, Italian tuna, bread sticks and, of course, pasta. I keep a variety of dry pasta available, both long and short noodles, Orzo and Arborio rice for quick pasta dishes. I also keep different flavors of Ravioli and Tortellini on hand in the refrigerator or freezer. My brand of choice is http://www.threebridges.com which is fresh, delicious, made with wholesome ingredients: antibiotic-free meats, rBST-free dairy products and no artificial ingredients or preservatives. They also carry a line of ready-made sauces that are by far the best tasting I’ve ever had. When you’ve have had a full day, then had to fit in some shopping after work, and still need to feed some hungry humans dinner when you finally make it home. It’s also a great arsenal to have on the ready for those unexpected friends and family that drop by.
Here is one of my secret weapons; an assortment of Hors d’oeuvres with Spinach and Cheese Tortellini skewers with pesto-lemon dipping sauce.
Tortellini Skewers
Prepare Tortellini as per package directions
Assemble the other skewer ingredients: Mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, cooked shrimp
You can improvise with your choice of ingredients: grilled veggies and/or chicken, etc
Alternate items on a skewer and arrange on a platter
For the sauce: Use 3/4 cup http://www.threebridges.com pesto sauce and squeeze the juice of one fresh lemon in to it. Stir and place in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh lemon.
