Graduation Party Food Ideas

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef, preferably lean; turkey can be used instead.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, or your favorite melting cheese.
• 1 cup diced bell peppers, mix of colors for presentation.
• 1 small onion, diced; yellow or red onions work well.
• 1 package taco seasoning, or homemade mix.
• 1 package tortilla chips, thicker chips recommended.
• 1 cup guacamole, store-bought or homemade.
• 1 cup salsa, variety with some heat recommended.
• 4 cups mixed greens, such as spinach, arugula, and romaine.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved.
• 1 cucumber, sliced into thin rounds.
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; goat cheese is an option.
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette, or homemade dressing.
• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced.
• 2 cups blueberries, rinsed and dried.
• 1 cup whipped cream, homemade recommended.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar, adjust to taste.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
• 1 cup sour cream, or Greek yogurt.
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened.
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix.
• 1 cup chopped veggies (carrots, celery, bell peppers), cut into sticks.

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onions and bell peppers to skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in taco seasoning, following package instructions. Set aside to let flavors meld.
4. On a large serving platter, layer tortilla chips, topping with the beef mixture evenly.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese generously over top and place under broiler for 2-3 minutes until melted.
6. Serve immediately with guacamole and salsa on the side.
7. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently.
8. In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, blueberries, sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing gently.
9. Let mixture sit for about 15 minutes to develop juices. Top with whipped cream before serving.
10. Blend together sour cream, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning until smooth. Transfer to serving bowl and arrange veggies around dip.

Notes