Everyone loves a good party, but if you’re the host, preparing the food can wear you out before your guests arrive. Freeze drying party food ahead of time is a great way to throw a memorable gathering – that you’ll actually have the energy to enjoy. You can freeze dry food far in advance and just rehydrate on the big day.

The best party food can be eaten with one hand and in one bite. Dips and mini versions of favorites such as sliders and quiche are always big hits. The best strategy is to get everything made at least a week ahead so you can devote the remaining days to cleaning up and arranging your party space. The day of the party, all you have to do is rehydrate and arrange food on platters.

Because freeze drying only removes water, everything will taste as fresh and delicious as the day you made it.

Mini Meatballs, Crab Cakes and Quiche

One-bite versions of sliders, meatballs, mini crab cakes and crust-less mini quiche provide delicious protein anchors for other appetizers. Place cooked or uncooked meatballs, mini burgers or crab cakes and quiche on trays and freeze dry. Store in airtight containers or Mylar bags until you’re ready to use. To reconstitute, just add water. If you’ve freeze dried your snacks uncooked, once you rehydrate they’ll be ready to bake or grill.

Dips and Spreads

Spinach and artichoke dip, tapanade, queso and bean dips are all popular party foods that are easy to serve with bread. To freeze dry dips and spreads, spread a layer on the tray and freeze dry. Store in airtight containers or Mylar bags until you’re ready to use. To reconstitute, just add small amounts of warm water until it reaches the original consistency.

One of the easiest party snacks is guacamole. With a Harvest Right Freeze Dryer you can freeze dry your favorite avocados and simply break them into pieces and mix with water. As the avocados rehydrate they turn into a beautiful and delicious guacamole dip. Just open a bag of your favorite chips and enjoy!

On the day of the party, slice fresh bread and put out crackers for dipping. By freeze drying party food ahead of time, you’ll avoid the exhaustion and last-minute panic that traditionally comes with hosting a get together.