Mango Surprise! Potluck or Party Lifesaver for Busy People...

Potlucks, Parties, Bridge Clubs and/or gatherings of any kind can be lots of fun BUT...

They can also a pain for busy people who are totally tied up in their careers, especially if they are expected to bring a dish to add to the festivities.

Here is a quick and simple solution which will not only save you loads of time but also make a pleasant impact on the other guests. Take note, all you non-chefs and all-thumbs single male (or female, for that matter) “can-not-cook” types…

I call it my Quick and Easy Mango Surprise... it is so simple and spontaneous you will save oodles of time and you will love the compliments you get! Believe it or not, folks will even ask you for the recipe?

Note: You can even do the set up at the party… picking up the ingredients on the way, with a quick stop off at the local supermarket…

Take a fancy plate or platter* and add the following...

One or Two (or more depending on the number of guests) Blocks of Philly Cream Cheese arranged in a clever pattern...

Then spoon onto the cream cheese  a generous topping of Mango Chutney also found in the gourmet or even the jams and jelly section of most supermarkets. I like the brand called Major Grey's from England because it seems to always have the right consistency for dipping and is not too runny. Thus, it makes a good presentation. To add a little extra pizzazz, you may add sprinkles such as toasted Sesame Seeds or even fancy Bakers Sprinkles used on cakes and cookies. The Chutney is already sweet thus tart or crunchy may work best as the crowning touch.

Then, surround this fine display with a variety of snack crackers such as wheat thins, Ritz, etc. or even fancier snack crackers from other countries found in the gourmet or cookie aisle in your local supermarket. Use a variety of sizes colors and shapes to add interest visual dynamics to your spread.

Time slaving over a hot stove. Zero

Rave reviews... Plenty! (you'll see)

Time saved over worrying about what to bring... Priceless!

*To make it even more carefree, although somewhat less stylish, you may even use those throw-away type seasonal party plates found at Target, Wall Mart or the Chef’s Supply houses. This means no clean-up and no need to wait or worry about getting your nice plate or platter back.

Another trick is to collect, in advance, elegant old platters or plates at yard sales and use those. Even a very nice $2.00 plate is not a great loss if it does not get returned.