Contributed by Info Guru Aurora LaJambre

Pair the right cocktail foods with your drink of choice and your taste buds will thank you.

Made to be held in one hand, bite-sized portions mean you don’t have to put down your drink to sample the goods!

These merchants’ menu choices span the spectrum from sweet to savory and everything in between, depending on the kind of drinks you plan to serve.

Sphinx Ranch dates

A natural take on sweets

Maybe it’s only psychological, but sweet treats have a way of cleansing the palate so you’re ready to try the next colorful liquid concoction. But even at a cocktail party, people are looking for healthier snack options.Sphinx Ranch knows exactly how to bridge that gap with their oh-so-savory dates dipped in chocolate, rolled in coconut or stuffed with nuts. It’s the fruit that eats like a dessert!

And their party trays make it super simple. Just order, unwrap and serve.

Elegant hot appetizers

Lots of choices, very little work

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You could make these cocktail foods yourself, in between cleaning, getting ready and setting up the bar, or you could buy them frozen and ready to pop in the oven. Pick a combo that works with your party theme, from Cajun deliciousness like these Shrimp Purses to a Parisian Sampler. All you have to do is heat and enjoy… a wonderful way to enjoy your party as much as your guests do!

Quesadillas

For Small Dinner Parties

Quesadillas are best served hot off the pan so they work well for small parties. Make them up before hand and you’ll only need to heat them on the skillet for a few moments. Keep the filling simple if you plan to set out some dips. Serve fresh crab inside for a delicious surprise. Maryland blue crabmeat is both fresh and pasteurized. Mix it with pickled jalapenos and crisp between flour tortillas.

Bruschetta

Easy as Toast

Cheese, bread and gin – who could ask for anything more? Bruschetta is a guaranteed crowd pleaser at parties because the flavors compliment almost any drink you’re serving up, and its super simple to make. Bake your own crusty bread with the right kitchenware. There are multiple bread makers to choose from so you can prep the mix of cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, basil and mozzarella without worrying about rising dough. Wisconsin Made has a large assortment of cheeses to top that homemade bread.

Sliced sausages

A cocktail party favorite

Sometimes the simple is still the best. At least, that’s the case when it comes to The Swiss Colony beef sausages. Choose sausages with a kick like these jalapeno infused treats, or opt for a classic flavor to serve with sharp cheese and a spicy mustard dip. Assemble them on crisp mini tortillas or thinly sliced circles of brown bread. Or offer the elements separately and allow guests to build their own creations.

Spiced Nuts

A Handful of Yum

Spicy nuts bring out the bright flavors in gin and vodka drinks, without making you feel too full. They’re a perfect snack to set out in small bowls so people can help themselves throughout the night. Bulk Foods has a variety of nuts, from pecans and almonds to peanuts, as well as spices like Cayenne pepper. To spice them yourself toss the nuts in a bowl with a little olive oil and a few shakes of salt and pepper. Drizzle in some maple for a touch of sweetness and roast at 250 F for about 10 minutes.

Swordfish on Wonton Squares

Spice Things Up

The small portion size of cocktail foods creates an opportunity to play with bold flavors. Spicy mahi or swordfish on baked wonton squares gives a satisfying crunch between sips. Mix your favorite cooked seafood with a dash of soy sauce, sesame oil, scallions and chili pepper seeds. Chill and spread on the baked squares. Look for an assortment of delicious fish that will make the hors d’oeuvres at your next cocktail party a hit.