Some people keep a stash of cash for emergencies. I keep a stash of pantry and refrigerator staples for unexpected guests. With a can or two of clams in my pantry, and some cream cheese, mayo and sour cream in my fridge, I can whip up an "emergency" hors d’oeuvre in no time.

My favorite Hot Clam Dip comes together in a snap, and is delicious spread over crackers or served with pita, bagel or even rippled potato chips for dipping. The recipe gets a kick from some prepared horseradish, fresh garlic, Worcestershire and a dash or hot pepper sauce. Keep the ingredients on hand, because spur-of-the-moment entertaining is always the most fun!

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
• Hot pepper sauce, to taste
• 1 10.5-ounce can minced clams, drained
• Crackers, pita chips, bagel chips or rippled potato chips
  

Makes 12 hors d’oeuvre servings.