It has been a really cold Winter so far and Winter hasn't even started yet.  A friend told me that she heard this is going to be the snowiest winter in years and I can't even begin to guess what the Jerusalem snow storm is supposed to tell us.  The lesson I am choosing to glean is to start planning some fun nights in.

Even without snow, when it starts to get really cold, people just want to cuddle up in their pajamas and stay warm.  That doesn't mean the fun has to stop, instead, it is time to host a game night!!  Get the kids or your friends together and enjoy your winter at home.  You have to work a bit to prepare some fun food, but we will keep it easy so you don't miss out on any of the action.

Snack type foods are the best for game nights, in my opinion, but they need to be substantial and still include some veggies.

I always keep frozen spinach around to make last minute veggie sides like these Spinach Tidbits.  You should have all the ingredients and they are easy to make and even more easy to eat.

Tortilla chips with salsa and guacamole are a staple game night food.  If you can swing it, dress it up a bit with this recipe for Pomegranate Guacamole, great with carrots and celery to dip too.

I try to keep things healthy, so if I am going to go for a breaded, hot melty cheese stick at least I can make it at home and bake it instead of frying.  It is easier and lower in fat.  Perfect to dip in some hot marinara sauce too.  Get the recipe for Baked Mozzarella Sticks

I love all baked veggie chips, this time of year, I keep Winter squashed on hand so that these Acorn Squash Chips are perfect.  You can even toast the seeds for an extra snack out of the same food.

If you have had enough savory foods, let's move on to the sweet stuff.  Got to love this Maple Almond Popcorn with its sugary coating.

Make your fruit more fun to eat, let people assemble their own or make them ahead.  Everyone loves food on a stick especially if you give them something to dip it in, Fruit Skewers with Yogurt Dip.

No family night is complete without s'mores.  If you are lucky enough to have a fireplace, go ahead and make the original, if not, try these S'Mores Pop Tarts.

You can bet your friends and family will stay warm and cozy and create memories and fun together all Winter long.

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