The fact that the Chicago Bears blew it in the playoffs last year turned the Big Game into a drag, but the party that surrounded it was anything but. Not just because drinks were overflowing, but because our hostess threw a Super Bowl bash to remember. It was the perfect combination of tailgate foods and eye-catching decorations.

By following some tips I picked up from her party, you too can create a cheap Super Bowl party worth remembering.

Recipes

Food will be the highlight of the party. Here are some quick, easy and cheap ideas to satisfy your guests. Quick Fix: If the grub disappears well before halftime, have everyone chip in for pizza.

Guacamole

Not just for fiestas but for football, too!

Ingredients:

3 avocados 1 tomato, diced 1 small onion, minced 1 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped 2 Tbsp. lime juice 1 clove garlic, mashed (or Tsp chopped garlic from jar) Salt to taste

Directions: Cut avocados, scoop and mash the flesh. Add the rest of your ingredients. Goes great with your favorite chips!

(www.mex-recipes.com)

Tangy Cocktail Franks

Fast finger food for everyone to enjoy!

Ingredients:

1 jar (12 oz) currant jelly (or citrus marmalade)

2/3 cup chili sauce

2 Tsp. mustard

2 Tbsp. lemon juice

1 lb cocktail franks or regular hot dogs cut in 1-inch slices

1 can sliced pineapple, drained, quartered

Dash ground cayenne pepper, to taste

Directions: In a medium saucepan combine currant jelly, chili sauce, mustard and lemon juice. Add the hot dogs or cocktail franks, pineapple and ground pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker and keep on low for serving. Serve with toothpicks.

(www.southernfood.about.com)

Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes

Quick cakes that will class up any party!

Ingredients:

1 can pineapple rings

1 can of Maraschino Cherries

1 box of yellow cake mix

1 shot dark rum (optional)

Muffin pan

Directions: Spray muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray. Place one pineapple ring in each muffin slot. Place one cherry in the middle of each pineapple ring. Next, prepare cake batter according to directions but replace the water or oil with the remaining pineapple juice from the can, and rum (if you are using it). Bake according to the directions on the box, remove from pan when cooled, and voila!

Stay tuned next week for decorating ideas that will turn your living room from drab to fab all on a student friendly budget.

> Comments