Holiday Party Food Prep

For the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic until fragrant and softened.

For the Meat Sauce: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until fully browned.

For the Meat Sauce: Pour in the entire jar of marinara sauce. Stir to combine with the beef and onions, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let it simmer while you prepare other dishes.

For the Crab Salad: Using a vegetable chopper or a knife, finely chop the imitation crab meat.

For the Crab Salad: Chop the mini cucumbers. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped crab, chopped cucumbers, drained corn, and drained peas. (Note: Dressing not shown).

For the Jalapeño Poppers: Halve the jalapeños lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.

For the Jalapeño Poppers: In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and cooked, crumbled sausage or bacon until well combined.

For the Jalapeño Poppers: Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half and arrange them in a baking dish.

For the Beet & Potato Salad: Boil the beets and potatoes until tender. Allow them to cool, then peel and dice them.

For the Beet & Potato Salad: In a large bowl, combine the diced beets and potatoes with the chopped dill pickles, diced onion, and chopped fresh dill. Mix gently to combine.