And the Oscar for best appetizer goes to…

The Oscars are a big deal in my house. It all stems from an ex-boyfriend who’s parents held an epic Oscar party every year; think fully catered with a wait staff passing drinks and appetizers in black ties. Everyone filled out their own ballot before the stars started appearing on the red carpet and being torn apart by Joan Rivers and her Fashion Police squad. The one attendee with the most correct picks at the end of the night got to walk away with an incredible prize.

Since my beautiful family is not in quite the same tax bracket as that lovely family, we do things a little differently at our house. We play Oscar Bingo and even the little guys get in on the fun and hope for the prize at the end of the night.

If you are continuing a similar tradition or looking to start a new one, we have some fun and easy recipes to make for your own festivities. You can whip these Oscar nominee inspired party bites and then settle in on the couch to see whether or not Leo will finally take home a prize and what zany antics Jennifer Lawrence will get into during the night.

Oscar Nominee Inspired Party Bites

Best Actress Oscar Nominee: Jennifer Lawrence

Miss Lawrence is an outspoken actress, not known to pass on her favorite foods, especially Chinese food which she’s been known to eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Her nominated portrayal of real-life character Joy Mangano of Hone Shopping fame, also happens to order a lot of Chinese, as a part of her home-shopping (mostly Made in China) sales empire. Give an ode to Joy and enjoy a Chinese-inspired appetizer with Crazy Cuizine Mandarin Orange Chicken Dippers this Oscar night!

1. Bake Crazy Cuizine Mandarin Chicken for 18 minutes in a 400 degree oven
2. Combine Orange Sauce, chopped garlic and Dijon mustard
3. Pop a toothpick in each chicken piece and then serve with sauce on the side and enjoy

Best Actor Oscar Nominee: Matt Damon

Matt Damon’s space age take on Cast Away saw his character depending on potatoes, rather than a volleyball for his survival on Mars. Here on Earth its much easier to elevate a simple bag of frozen French fries with a dusting of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of truffle oil. Celebrate your Oscar’s favorite Martian with a star-worthy plate of truffle fries.

1. Bake Ore Ida fries for 20 minutes in a 425 degree oven
2. Remove the fries from the oven and allow to cool for 2-3 minutes
3. Toss with Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder and truffle oil and enjoy

Best Picture Oscar Nominee: The Big Short

The Big Short portrays some of the industry’s best acting, and best looking (I’m looking at you, Ryan Gosling) , leading men as the guys who were best known for betting against the housing market during the 2000’s. They may be a little better known for their frequent trips to Nobu Sushi throughout the film! Bet on yourself and stay budget conscious this year by serving every sushi lover’s favorite side dish: edamame.

1. Microwave Birds Eye edamame beans on high for 3-4 minutes
2. Toss edamame with soy sauce, chopped garlic and rice vinegar
3. Serve with a side of soy sauce and enjoy!

So, gather your friends together, whip up a few inspired apps, get your ballots filled out and root for your favorites! See you on the red carpet!

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