Zeina Tawfik 
The countdown for the Oscars has officially begun with only a few hours to go to the 86th Academy Awards. If you're throwing an Oscars viewing party, then here are eight snacks that can easily be done and served to your family and friends. They're all simple snack ideas, so I guarantee you that minimum time and effort will be needed. However, I would recommend focusing on the presentation and the little details, so set up a mini-buffet including food and beverages and be ready to enjoy a star-studded Oscars night.
1. Popcorn
Popcorn is one the easiest snacks that you can prepare for family and friends gathering at your place. You can either make some by using microwave popcorn bags, or you can make it on the stove-top. Serve several bowls with more than one flavor, for example, buttered popcorn and caramel popcorn.
2. Fruits Platter
On a tray or a large plate, slice some seasonal fruits and arrange them nicely. Near the platter, place a small container of toothpicks, in addition to small bowls filled with chocolate sauce or whipping cream for dipping.
3. Vegetables Platter
Slice some cucumbers, carrots, capsicums and arrange them neatly on a tray or a large plate in addition to cherry tomatoes. Use labneh or hummus for dipping, and don't forget to place the toothpicks container.
4. Mini Pizza
You don't actually have to prepare the crust at home, because it's quite a hassle if you don't have the time to do it. Use the ready made pizza crust which can be found in supermarkets, place the mini pizza crusts on a cooking tray that's sprayed with oil, top them off with tomato sauce, along with sliced olives, and shredded mozzarella cheese. You can add pepperoni or mushrooms according to your preference, and then put the tray into the oven until cooked.
5. Tortilla Chips
Tortilla chips bags are found in supermarkets, so get a couple and pour them into a large bowl. Prepare some guacamole or salsa for dipping and serve in small bowls next to it.
6. Mini Sandwiches
Prepare an assortment of mini sandwiches, fill the bread rolls with cold cuts, hot dogs, or even tuna. Add condiments to add flavor to the filling, such as mayonnaise with the tuna and ketchup with the hot dogs.
7. Marshmallows
Marshmallows can be used to make delicious S'mores at home. You can also make marshmallow pops, by placing a wooden skewer in each marshmallow, then dip it in chocolate/caramel sauce until completely covered, and then top it off with sprinkles.
8. Cupcakes
The quickest way to prepare cupcakes if you're in a hurry, is to use a ready-made mix. When your cupcakes batch is done, top it off with homemade chocolate frosting.
