Puttin’ on the Ritz with Albertson’s

A group of OC bloggers were treated to a red-carpet holiday event at Albertson’s in Brea this week.  Heidi Diller, Corporate Nutritionist, first demonstrated how to make some super easy centerpieces by floating cranberries in water, add a tealight candle and a touch of greenery and viola!

A warm and delicious cup of hot chocolate is a wonderful way to welcome guests to your home.  The hot chocolate was prepared using Abuelita chocolate and kept warm in a slow cooker. Guests can rim their cups with ground peppermint or chocolate and garnish them with an array of delectable sweets such as mint patties, heath bars, marshmallows, and whipped cream.

Next we moved to a table where Heidi prepared two quick appetizers:  Brie topped with honey, warmed in the oven, and topped with walnuts and a Pumpkin Hummus (recipe follows).  All the ingredients are available at your local Albertson’s store.

Pumpkin Hummus

1 15 -ounce can of pumpkin

2 T. tahini

1 garlic clove, chopped

1 T. fresh parsley, chopped

½ t. salt

1 t. olive oil

½ t. ground cumin

1 T. lemon juice

Combine ingredients until smooth and creamy. If hummus is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time until desired consistency. Spoon into serving bowl, and sprinkle with desired topping like cinnamon, red pepper, or more parsley. Here toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) were sprinkled on top which adds a nice crunch.

But wait, Heidi also showed us three easy dishes to make using rotisserie chicken, two desserts, and several homemade gifts from the kitchen.  I’ll share these in my next post.  Until then…. invite some friends over and enjoy a batch of hot chocolate with all the trimmings!