Last year (as in, late 2009), I briefly considered adding a theme to my very small, very casual New Year’s Eve party. Because that seemed – after much thought – like overkill, I decided to save my theme idea for later. And now, finally, I’ve found the right time to use my brilliant theme.

Next Sunday, we’re having some friends over for a Chinese New Year-themed Superbowl party! This year’s Chinese New Year is on the 3rd, just a few days before the big game. So, what do you think? Weird? Or . . . awesome!? Wait – don’t decide until you see the menu!

Chinese New Year & Superbowl Menu

• Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies – I know. Not exactly what comes to mind when you think of Chinese food. But they were so good at Christmas that I can’t resist making them again!
• Baked Crab Rangoon – I have been just waiting for a chance to try out this recipe. Crab rangoon is my favorite part of Chinese food!
• Crackers with Chunky Cheese Dip – Again, not necessarily a traditional Chinese dish. But it also was a big hit at Christmas and it will use some of the green onions I need for one of the main dishes. I’ll share the recipe below!
• Garlic Mustard Grilled Beef Skewers – This is for my husband who, for as long as I’ve known him, has refused to eat Chinese food.
• General Tso’s Chicken or this other General Tso’s Chicken
• Oreo Delight – I’m pretty sure we’ll need more than a little fortune cookie to balance out the salt intake of this menu. Although, really, I don’t need an excuse to try out this amazing-looking Oreo dessert!

I got the recipe for my Chunky Cheese Dip from the church cookbook Mark’s mom gave me before we were married. His aunt entered the recipe, and I remember eating at least my fair share of it every time she served it at her house. She called it “Lumpy Dip,” but I actually think that sounds kind of gross. Then again, maybe I should rethink using the word “chunky” in the title. I’m pretty sure this is commonly called “Neiman Marcus Dip,” but that sounds weird, too. Hmmm . . . feel free to offer any ideas for a better name for this appetizer!

Chunky Cheese Dip

2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
8 slices bacon, fried and crumbled
6 green onions, chopped
1 cup mayonnaise

Mix all ingredients together; it’s really as simple as that. But here are a few tips. First, shred the cheese instead of buying the pre-shredded stuff. (I’m not saying I do this. I’m just telling you what I know is best.) Second, cut the uncooked bacon into small pieces. It will fry up faster and be easier to chop into even smaller pieces for the dip. Lastly, make sure you don’t use Miracle Whip. That would be bad.

Serve with Wheat Thins or other sturdy crackers. Make sure to get your serving before putting it out, because the bowl will be empty before the end of your party!

Now, I realize that Chinese food may not be your cup of tea (green tea?) when it comes to a Superbowl party. So, here are a few suggestions for your normal traditional Superbowl party.

• Chili – Healthy, easy and perfect for a crowd. And, it just so happens that this recipe did win a chili cook-off in Nashville this past weekend. (Thanks to Christine’s cooking!)
• Chicken Enchilada Soup – This might be a nice alternative to chili. It’s still spicy, still healthy, but another option for those [weird] people who don’t like chili. (Just kidding, Christine!)
• Chicken Nachos – What goes with football better than nachos?
• Southwest Corn Dip – This is delicious, and it makes a TON.
• Tortilla Rolls & Seven-Layer Dip – Two of my favorite appetizers . . . and now I’m feeling the urge to make these, even though they don’t fit my theme!
• S’mores Brownies – There’s really no bad time for S’mores brownies. Just trust me on this one.

Are you hosting or attending a Superbowl party? What’s on the menu?

Image by Scott Waldron. This post will be linked to Mouthwatering Monday, Tasty Tuesday, Tuesdays at the Table, Tempt My Tummy Tuesday, 33 Shades of Green, Foodie Friday, Friday Firsts and Food on Fridays.