Category: Appetizers

Cherry Bruschetta

I’ve talked before about how I love cherries and especially Tartarians. They’re plump, juicy dark cherries that are out of this world delicious. I’ll eat them straight out of the basket, on top of cottage cheese or mixed into a cake. Although I still need to try them on a savory dish like chicken or… Continue reading Cherry Bruschetta

Green Garlic Crostini

I’m a huge garlic fan. I use it in just about everything from spaghetti sauce to stews. I even roast it and spread it on toast. But last year I discovered something called green garlic. It’s a younger version of garlic which means it’s not quite as potent. But just because it’s not strong, doesn’t… Continue reading Green Garlic Crostini

Boursin-Stuffed Kumquats

Now that we’re getting into spring and summer, that means more time outside. And more time outside means more picnics and family barbecues. But then we come to the question about what to serve for those events. Fried chicken is a good choice as are burgers and fruit salads. But those are all main courses… Continue reading Boursin-Stuffed Kumquats

Barbecue Sausage and Cheese Platter

Once a year the families on my block host a progressive dinner party, which is when you have at least 3 courses and each course is served at a different person’s house. It’s a lot of fun because we all travel as a group up and down the block and get to hang out with… Continue reading Barbecue Sausage and Cheese Platter

BLT Bites

One of my favorite sandwiches growing up was the BLT. Actually it was the BT because I couldn’t stand lettuce. I loved them and ate them every chance I could. I think one of the reasons I was such a fan was because of the bacon. I love bacon. But then again, who doesn’t? That… Continue reading BLT Bites

Baked Blueberry Brie

Here’s the thing about the holidays, it seems from Thanksgiving to New Year’s every single weekend is booked. Between office parties and shopping and friendly get togethers, I never feel like I have enough time to do anything, including cook. I love to cook, though, especially for parties. So, I always find a way. Don’t… Continue reading Baked Blueberry Brie

Roasted Plum Chutney

This may seem like an odd recipe to be posting this time of year, but believe it or not, plums are still readily available at most grocery stores and farmer’s markets. As I’m sure you’ve noticed, I’m a huge stone fruit fan. So, as long as plums are still available, I’m going to keep buying… Continue reading Roasted Plum Chutney

Fire-Roasted Ricotta with Grilled Corn & Peppers

It’s America’s birthday on Monday which means the whole country will be celebrating with parties and fireworks. My street actually holds a block party every year to celebrate, complete with a chili cook-off, pie contest, plenty of watermelon and plenty of grilling. But we don’t just grill chicken, burgers and hot dogs. We grill fruits… Continue reading Fire-Roasted Ricotta with Grilled Corn & Peppers