Appetizers

One of the best things about a Mexican restaurant is the chips, salsa, and queso served with the margaritas. Why not make it at home?  In about 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch of Chunky Homemade Salsa and Creamy Rotel Queso for a Read More..

There are lots of guacamole recipes that claim to be ‘the best’, but this recipe uses fresh ingredients, is ridiculously easy, and is super flavorful, truly making it ‘The Best Guacamole’ recipe!  I think your family is gonna love it! Kick-off Cinco De Mayo with Read More..

Pretty, crisp, buttery homemade Southern cheese squares are an easy and tasty appetizer.  The same taste as the classic cheese straw, but made into a slice and bake roll. I like to serve these at most of my gatherings – especially for a Southern brunch Read More..

No Kentucky Derby party would be complete without a platter of little sandwiches.  These easy egg salad finger sandwiches are a delicious nibble that satisfies just about everyone. I like to serve the sandwiches as part of a beautiful Kentucky Derby cocktail party.  I’ve gotten Read More..

A vintage recipe that needs to make a comeback, Kentucky Derby Benedictine Spread is a delicious appetizer for any party.  It also makes a great filling for tea sandwiches. I like to serve this spread as a dip with crudites.  For a beautiful Kentucky Derby Read More..

A Mexican Picadita is a traditional dish consisting of a base of fried masa harina with savory toppings.  These picaditas are topped with a smokey Mexican tomato sauce, black beans, chorizo, onions, and cilantro.   They make a delicious appetizer or a light lunch.  Top with Read More..

These toasted ravioli are always a favorite.  Cheese ravioli is breaded in a flavorful, cheesy coating and baked until golden brown.  Serve them with your favorite tomato sauce for dipping. Fried foods seem too heavy for an appetizer.  Yet, I adore the crunchy, cheesy fried Read More..

A healthier take on everyone’s favorite amusement park or fair treat, these Easy Corn Dog Muffins make a quick, yet fun brunch, lunch, game day appetizer, or even a quick weeknight dinner. Who doesn’t love a corn dog?  There’s something gratifying about eating food off Read More..

Forget about those greasy, overcooked, rubbery shrimp that you remember from bad restaurants in your past. These Light And Crunchy Fried Shrimp are moist, tender, delectable, and crunchy without being heavy and greasy.  The key to light and crunchy shrimp is keeping the oil at Read More..

This candied bourbon bacon makes a delicious, crispy, crunchy addition to your breakfast table, but it is also a great appetizer to go along with cocktails in the evening. No worries about serving it to the kiddos.  The alcohol in the bourbon burns off leaving Read More..

It’s National Deviled Egg Day! And if any food should be celebrated, this would be at the top of the list.  But, is there any way to make a deviled egg even better?   Yep, you can bread and fry it.  These fried deviled eggs are Read More..

What better to munch on while watching your favorite team FINALLY back playing football, than this Game Day Reuben Dip.  It’s different, not expected, and yet incredibly delicious.  Savory, cheesy, meaty, and tangy all at the same time with the yummy flavors of your favorite Read More..

Pimento cheese is such a Southern staple and crazy delicious.  And since it’s also crazy easy, it’s a perfect addition to a Kentucky Derby party!  This tangy and creamy spread is always a hit. They don’t call it the pâté of the South for nothing. Read More..

This Southern-fried okra recipe uses nuggets of fresh okra that are dipped in a spicy buttermilk mixture, dredged in cornmeal, flour, and breadcrumbs, then fried until crisp and golden.  They’re addictive and you can’t stop popping them into your mouth.  There’s a reason Southern-fried okra Read More..

This Goat Cheese Caprese Bruschetta recipe is a perfect summer ‘go-to’ appetizer.  So fresh and healthy, it also makes a wonderful light lunch or brunch dish.  Serve this with a Fennel & Orange Salad, a Savory Roasted Garlic Palmiere, and an Italian Amaretti Peach for Read More..