Canapés are a must at any soiree, but they can be expensive in the shops. Instead of buying them, why not make your own with some of these delicious ideas from the iVillage community

For my birthday I'm planning to throw a cocktail n' canapés evening for about 20 friends. I'd love to hear your suggestions for hassle-free canapés. I don't want to spend all day in the kitchen preparing food. The plan is to serve cold canapés as far as possible, which can be prepared in advance and eaten as finger food.
ibugs

Smoked salmon tortilla pinwheels
by farris.terry
(Makes about 20-24)

Comments: Here's a recipe for one of my favourite canapés - it's easy, quirky and can be prepared in advance:

Ingredients
2 large tortilla wraps
200g (7oz) cream cheese
leaves from a round lettuce
200g (7oz) smoked salmon
fresh lemon juice
black pepper

Method

1. Spread the tortillas evenly with the cream cheese.
2. Cut the hard centre rib from the lettuce and discard. Lay the leaves in a single layer on top of the cheese, pressing lightly to flatten.
3. Lay the slices of smoked salmon on top of the lettuce in an even layer.
4. Squeeze over a little lemon juice and season with the black pepper.
5. Tuck an edge under and roll the tortilla as tightly as you can, trying to leave the lettuce and salmon in tact as you roll.
6. Wrap with cling film and place in the fridge to firm up.

To serve, using a sharp knife cut into 1cm (1/2") thick slices and arrange on a serving plate. You can use left over lettuce leaves as a base if you wish.

Golden Parmesan Slices
by celque

Comments: I have a recipe that's very easy and I absolutely love it. A friend's granny used to make these for parties and I've never forgotten them: Give it a try!

Method

1. Make a paste of Mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese - and don't be mean with the Parmesan.
2. Slice a baguette and spread the paste on the slices
3. Grill gently until golden.

Comments and method:
My mum makes mini Yorkshire puddings and puts a teaspoon of horseradish sauce in the middle with a small slivers of beef placed delicately on top. So simple and yet so tasty

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