Royals Slider Bar

After 29 years, the Kansas City Royals are finally back in the World Series! I (Barb) was in high school the last time this happened, and I can still remember how excited the entire city was. Kids were lined up 6 deep at the pay phones, trying to get their parents to let them out of school early to go to the parade. Everyone was wearing blue. George Brett was every kid's hero. And seeing the excitement on George's face as this year's team made it past the Wildcard game and through the Division playoffs has brought tears to my eyes. Since this isn't a sports blog, Deb and I tossed around a few ideas to celebrate our beloved boys in blue making it to the World Series. What better way to tailgate at the K (assuming we don't win the next 3 in San Francisco), or watch the game with friends, than with a Slider Bar! 

Think of it… sliders are fun and easy to eat. Most of the prep can be done ahead of time. That means you get to watch the game instead of working in the kitchen. Instead of pre-assembling the sliders (they could get a little soggy), a slider bar lets everyone make something to suit their taste. Start out with some great bread choices. Go a little beyond the basic dinner roll to make it fun. Try pretzel rolls, sourdough, or even pumpernickel. Make smaller patties with hamburger, ground turkey, Italian sausage (pork or chicken), or some Parmesan Chicken Cutlets. If you want some vegetarian options, try grilled baby bella mushrooms, or some breaded zucchini or eggplant rounds. Have a variety of sliced or shredded cheese (it's worth the time to get one of the pre-made party trays here), and some great toppings. Top it off with a few condiments, and you have an easy evening ahead of you. Round out your slider bar with a couple of easy side dishes, and you are good to go!

Here are our choices! 

What else would you add (besides a Royals win)?

Barbara Gulin is the brains behind Meals by the Week, and she's a regular contributor to It's me, DebCB. Take a moment to check out her meal planning site. It's guaranteed to save you time and money while putting healthy meals on the table for your entire family.