A Fiesta-Themed Poker Party

Are you in charge of refreshments for the next Poker Party? Tired of the typical chips and dip that tend to be the default snack at such events? Looking for something tasty yet simple and inexpensive to prepare that will wow your guests? Try Easy Cheesy Salsa Dip.

Ingredients:

One 8 oz block of Neufchatel cheese*, softened
16 oz jar of salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on your preference)
One 8 oz bag of Mexican blend shredded cheese*

Spread softened cream cheese into the bottom of small rectangular baking pan (Pyrex works great for this). Layer with salsa, then the shredded cheese. Bake at 350 degrees until cheese is melted and dip is bubbly. Serve with your favorite variety of crunchy corn tortilla chips.

*Regular cream cheese can be substituted for the Neufchatel. Also, if preferred, shredded cheddar can be substituted for the Mexican blend cheese.

This dip is also tasty paired with sour cream and/or fresh guacamole. And in keeping with the fiesta feel this snack provides, try adding chicken or steak taquitos or quesadillas, which can be prepared homemade or found in your local grocer's freezer section.

As for a sweet treat, try Simple Cinnamon Crisps.

Ingredients:

1 package of 12-inch flour tortillas
Cinnamon sugar blend

Lay tortilla flat on baking sheet and dampen slightly with warm water. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar blend. Cut into triangles with pizza cutter. Bake at 350 degrees until crisp and very slightly browned. Serve with caramel dip or drizzled slightly with chocolate.

Another great dessert idea is Cheater's Fried Ice Cream.

Ingredients:

Vanilla ice cream
Frosted Flakes cereal, crushed
Honey
Chocolate syrup
Whipped cream

Put two or three small scoops of ice cream in a bowl. Drizzle with honey. Top with crushed cereal. Add dollop of whipped cream. Lightly drizzle with chocolate syrup.

Try these party-pleasing recipes today. You won't be disappointed - and neither will your guests!