The first months of the new year offer occasions to gather with family and friends without the pressures of preparing big holiday meals. In other words, it’s party time! As winter progresses, it brings several snacking opportunities, with the Super Bowl, the Academy Awards and March Madness. When planning your party, aim above the bag of chips, and consider the following ideas from our staff:

The caramelized onion dip from the Deli, spread onto a Rustica baguette (cut into small disks and toasted in the oven), is wonderful. Top it off by adding a sliced grape on top. Sweet and savory, fatty-rich and fresh! — Ian O.

Avocados are a classic snack food for a reason — guacamole is delicious. Find everything you need for a big boisterous bowl of it in our Produce department: silky ripe avocados, zesty limes, cilantro, jalapeños and garlic. Serve with yellow or blue Whole Grain Milling tortilla chips. They’re sturdy, tasty and locally-made from high-lysine, non-GMO corn and with non-hydrogenated oil — so much better than the rest. — Hannah B.

From the co-op’s Deli, look for prepared chili and pizzas freshly made with local ingredients. Serve to guests in small cups and mini-slices for optimum snacking. Our three-bean vegan chili is especially hearty and thick; you’ll enjoy the spice and sustenance. — Allison

Swing by the co-op’s Meat & Seafood department for prepared bites that require only some simple baking time in the oven: sausage-stuffed mushrooms, jalapeño poppers, bacon-wrapped scallops. — Chris D.

So, call up a few friends, put on some tunes and enjoy appetizers and locally produced snacks from the co-op when you’re hosting a get-together.