Excited for the New Year

I know a lot of people get excited about the New Year. There are resolutions to be made and eventually abandoned, and the chance to turn over a new leaf and begin life with fresh zeal and a new outlook. These are definitely good things to be excited about. But as for me, I'm mostly excited about the food. Big surprise, huh - that seems to be my favorite part of just about any holiday.

There are two things in particular that I look forward to on New Year's Eve, and we'll be making and devouring them tomorrow just like we have been for years. I'll go ahead and post the recipes here now, though I'll be putting them up on my food blog later, after I make them and take pictures. Don't worry, you're not missing out on much by not seeing the pictures yet - it's not very photogenic food. But it's so good!!!

Traveling Tacos (sort of a layered taco dip, I don't have exact amounts for this one)

Combine refried beans with salsa. Spread in a pan. The pan and amounts depend on how much you want. For our little family, we do an 8-inch pan. Layer on top of the bean mixture: guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese, sliced olives, chopped tomatoes, and shredded lettuce. Chill for a few hours, and serve with tortilla chips.


Hearty Cheese Dip (This supposedly feeds 20, so we usually cut it in half and it serves the two of us and the kids quite nicely)

1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground sausage
16 oz. jar picante sauce
8 oz. jar diced tomatoes with green chilies
28 oz. can refried beans
4 oz. chopped olives
3 lbs. Mexican Velveeta

Brown meat; drain. In a large pot, melt cheese, stirring every few minutes. Add picante sauce and tomatoes to melted cheese. Stir well. Cook for five minutes on medium high heat. Add remaining ingredients to cheese mixture; stir well and cook another 10 minutes. Serve with tortilla chips.


I'm going to thoroughly enjoy the munching tomorrow night! These yummy dips are worth staying up until midnight for!