Here is a Holiday Cheese Ball that I've never heard anybody not like...and they can't really guess the ingredients, but it's YUMMY...

2 pkg (8 oz) cream cheese
1 can (3-4 oz) crushed pineapple drained
2 cups chopped pecans
1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper
2 T. finely chopped onion
1 T seasoned salt.
In bowl beat cheese till smooth. Gradually stir in pineapple 1 cup of the pecans, green pepper, onion and salt. Shape into a ball, roll in remaining pecans and wrap in saran or foil. Chill overnight, and place on plate with crackers such as Club or wheat thins or triscuits.
Very easy, can do ahead, and just hope you all enjoy it as much as we do!

Oven-Roasted veggies: use carrots cut in big chunks, parsnips, redskin potato, onion. Drizzle with olive oil. If you want more distinct flavors, use a marinade or dressing (like Italian) on cut-up veggies before baking time. After they are browned, sprinkle on fresh parsley, or any seasonings that you wish. I like the McCormick's "salt-free" mixed herbs. Or, Lemon Pepper is good, but note that it probably has salt.

Why not make a pasta salad. I do one that has everything you would put in an Italian Sandwich. Pasta is substitued for the bread. Put a 1/4 cup of olive oil and salt and pepper, mix to coat. Ver

Black Bean Dip: (All amounts are to your taste and preference): 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 or more small cans of corn, sometimes I omit the corn; 1/2-1 Cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/2-1 Cup chopped green onion, white and green parts; 1-2 cans diced green chili--depends on what part of the country you're in, but I usually freeze my own chili, or if I'm out of frozen, I use Ortega brand canned, one mild, one medium, depends on your taste, hot if you like; one med fresh tomato, diced; Sprinkle about 1 tsp garlic powder over everything, salt to taste. Mix well, refrigerate or not before serving. Serve with corn chips.

I just realized I really behind the times but thought maybe it isn't too late
I drag race and many weekends we have cookouts after the races- I agree there
is always too many deserts. I have made green bean casserole and put into crock pot
we end up feeding about 150-200 people. this went so fast and all commented on how
nice it was to have something hot and stayed hot.
I've made meatballs pre cooked added tomato sauce- tomato paste and a little brown sugar.
got some rolls and another item hot to eat.
Hope all goes well