Spanish Tapas Skewers Appetizers

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Running late to a potluck? There's no need to resort to pre-assembled veggie trays or plastic boxes of sugar cookies. Grocery store aisles hold plenty of ingredients that can be quickly thrown together into a dish worthy of any potluck table.

Skewers threaded with lots of little nibbles are perfect for a party where guests will be standing and mingling. Pick out an interesting wedge of cheese, some fresh or dried fruit, and a loaf of crusty bread. Some good-quality cured sausage or deli meat rounds things out. Once everything has been cut into bite-sized pieces, the skewers practically make themselves.

Small bites are another good option. Dried fruits can be stuffed with soft cheeses. Your favorite cracker can become a vehicle for everything from smoked salmon and sour cream to a slice of prosciutto and mozzarella. Keep the number of ingredients small and the assembly minimal to keep things easier on yourself once you arrive in your host's kitchen.

With simple dishes like these, quality of ingredients and presentation counts for a lot. Try to snag a pretty serving platter on your way out the door and then look for the best ingredients you can find at the store. Not only do fresh ingredients look better on the plate, but they're also tastier and more satisfying to eat.

Use a little creativity in the grocery store and it's surprising what comes together. No way you'll show up empty-handed to your next potluck.

SPANISH TAPAS SKEWERS

Makes 10-12 skewers

8 ounces manchego cheese

14 ounces dried figs or dates (approximately 24 fruits)

1/2 pound thinly-sliced cured ham, preferably Serrano

One package wooden skewers

Optional: extra-virgin olive oil and sea salt

Slice the cheese and the dried fruit into bite-sized pieces. Cut the slices of ham in half to create strips about 12 inches long and an inch wide. Thread the cheese and the fruits onto the skewers, weaving the strips of ham in between as you go.

Arrange on a platter with plates for serving. If desired, drizzle a little olive oil over each skewer and sprinkle with sea salt, or allow guests the option of doing this themselves. This can be messy, so make sure there are plenty of napkins to catch drips.

APRICOTS WITH BLEU CHEESE AND ALMONDS

Makes roughly 30 apricots

12 ounces dried apricots

4 ounces bleu cheese

1/2 pound whole almonds

Allow the bleu cheese to warm to room temperature, about 15 minutes. Using a spoon, scoop a marble-sized piece of cheese into the bowl of each apricot. Nestle an almond on top and press slightly to meld the layers.

Arrange on a platter and serve.

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