Gifts for co-workers are a tricky.

At holiday time, you’ve got to find the right gift that sends just the right message.

In my book, these are always winners:

1. Steak and wine pairings. Classy.
2. Gift-boxed steaks. Delicious! And beautifully packaged!
3. A selection of appetizers – you know, to serve at parties you’ll be invited to.

Gifts of fine foods speak volumes. They’ll appreciate your taste AND the message.

And THAT sets a nice tone for a fabulous 2015 at work!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com. 

The centerpiece of a great fall harvest party? The food!

Dishes that warm the soul and the palate are what celebrating the fall harvest is all about!

Here are some of my favorite foodie ideas to usher in the season:

1. Start with tantalizing appetizers. How about some applewood bacon and cheddar sliders? Or offer tasty basil pesto gorgonzola kisses, three cheese arancini, herb citrus scallops and lobster flatbread.

2. Whole Smoked Turkey. This is the main event. Delicious and showstoppingly beautiful, the aroma alone will have your guests drooling.

3. Sides with a twist. Try mashed potatoes with porcini mushrooms, carrots with maple glaze or lobster mac and cheese.

4. Finish up strong. Desserts that hail the season are winners like hand-dipped chocolate macaroons, spiced apple streusel tartlets or cognac pumpkin cake!

With a menu like this, no one will forget THIS fall harvest, for sure!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

When you’re watching some fantastic baseball, you’re bound to work up a pretty good hunger.

Why not make it easy on yourself and just create a variety of appetizers that will fill the bill?

When rooting on the Royals, why not grill up some beef tenderloin tips from some Kansas City folks. Hearty and tasty, they’ll satisfy any appetite.

Or how about some jumbo shrimp, bacon and cheddar sliders or baby brie bites?

This selection of hors d’oeuvre should get you going in the right direction. With so many to choose from, your guests’ appetites are sure to be satiated.

Play ball, friends!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.