Cuisine: appetizers

Curried Shrimp Croustades

I have a lot of catering “secrets” and won’t divulge many, but these Curried Shrimp Croustades I will part with.  It’s a wonderful recipe, that is incredibly easy, a huge crowd pleaser and you can make them in advance and freeze them.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 10 mins
  • Cook: 10 mins
  • Yields: Makes 48 pieces

Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Cheese Ball

I am not a big fan of serving a boring cheese platter at a party. It usually doesn't get eaten. I guarantee this cheese ball will be the hit of your next party. Cheese balls were all the rage in the 1970s, but this Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Cheese ball is an updated version of an old classic. So easy to make and the best part is that it has to be made ahead, so you can enjoy your party.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 15 mins

Bacon Wrapped Pickles

I know it sounds crazy, but if you love pickles, you will love these Bacon Wrapped Pickles. They are quick and easy to make and will surprise your guests! You can experiment with different dipping sauces. This one has a spicy ranch sauce, but I think some sort of spicy hot cheese sauce would also be good.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 5 mins
  • Cook: 20 mins
  • Yields: 6 Servings

Shrimp Toast

Shrimp toast or prawn toast is a Chinese dim sum dish. It’s simple finger food that makes a great hors d’oeurves for parties.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 20 mins
  • Cook: 5 mins
  • Yields: 6 - 8 Servings

Overnight Marinated Shrimp

Are you bored with the same old shrimp cocktail? This Overnight Marinated Shrimp is the answer. It's the perfect appetizer for entertaining that your guests will love!

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 20 mins
  • Yields: Makes 12 - 15 appetizer servings

Avocado Basil Hummus

This Avocado Basil Hummus is so absolutely delicious. The avocado and fresh basil really takes your ordinary hummus to a whole new level. Warning - it's addictive!

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 10 mins
  • Yields: Makes about 2¼ cups

Japanese Grilled Chicken Meatballs (Tsukune)

Tsukune is a Japanese chicken meatball which is basted in a sweet and salty glaze. The make a great appetizer or snack. These Japanese Grilled Chicken Meatballs are broiled and not actually grilled. They are easy to make and easy to eat!

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 10 mins
  • Cook: 30 mins
  • Yields: 4 - 6 Servings
Asparagus Wasabi Mayonnaise

Asparagus with Wasabi Mayonnaise

I remember first having this Asparagus with Wasabi Mayonnaise years ago at a party in Indiana on Lake Michigan. The combination of wasabi, mayo, soy sauce, lemon juice and a pinch of sugar is ambrosial. I don't even like wasabi!

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 10 mins
  • Cook: 5 mins

Lemon Marinated Tortellini, Basil & Tomato Skewers

These Lemon Marinated Tortellini, Basil & Tomato Skewers are very easy to make and perfect for a summer party.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 20 mins
  • Cook: 5 mins
  • Yields: Makes 20 skewers

Smoked Olives

My sister-in-law Rhonda brought us these smoked olives from the Suffolk Smokehouse and Deli in the UK. People go crazy for them. They go great with cocktails, beer, and wine.

By Leslie Blythe

  • Prep: 5 mins
  • Cook: 45 mins
  • Yields: Makes 3 cups