The holidays bring cheer, goodwill, and drop in guests. You know the dance we all play, where we keep a secret stash of “emergency” gifts on hand for people who we are not necessarily expecting to exchange presents with.

When they unexpectedly stop by to leave their package, they seemingly also find their way inside for a visit. Simply offering them a coffee and a store bought cookie seems weak, so how about providing something more inventive, and impressive.

To do this, do a search for “last minute” appetisers and you will be greeted with numerous recipes that can be whipped up in under ten minutes. The fact that they involve so little effort, and time dedication makes me feel a bit cheeky even referring to them as recipes. Some of my standby items are dips with cut fresh vegetables. Honestly, that actually takes the same amount of time as making a cup of coffee, or tea. Not to mention it is probably one of the healthiest items they will be offered all season.

And if you hand over that emergency gift to them and them pop off to the kitchen you will gain a few extra moments to whip up your snack, and you avoid the response the individual makes to the present. Win, Win.