Quentin Bacon

4 Fun (and Unusual) Snacks for Football Watchers

Appetizers that take less than 10 minutes to prepare.

by Melinda Page

Ancho-Cheddar Popcorn
"Start with a freshly popped bag of plain microwave popcorn," says Linnea Johansson, author of Perfect Parties: Tips and Advice From a New York Party Planner ($20, amazon.com). "Open the bag and, shaking between additions, add 3 tablespoons melted butter, 2 teaspoons ancho or some other mild chili powder, and ½ cup finely grated Cheddar. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve with extra napkins."
Ginger Snaps With Gorgonzola
A zesty, surprisingly tasty twist on cheese and crackers. The cookies are also great spread with Brie.
Dry Sausage With Whole-Grain Mustard
Slice a link into rounds and serve it with a small bowl of the mustard for dipping.
Sourdough Pretzels With Peanut Butter
Set out a dish of nibs, twists, or rods with a bowl of creamy peanut butter (and a knife) for spreading or dipping.