Cuisine: Hors d'oeuvres
Cantaloupe, Mint & Mozzarella
Instead of serving typical Caprese skewers at your summer party, try these Cantaloupe, Mint & Mozzarella. The mint pairs beautifully with the sweet cantaloupe and salty mozzarella.
- Prep: 15 mins
- Yields: Makes 25 skewers
Artichoke Parmesan Fritters with Labneh
These Artichoke Parmesan Fritters with Labneh are delicious. They are almost like potato latkes, but with artichokes, lemon and Parmesan. Labneh is Greek yogurt that’s been strained. It’s strained to remove most of its whey, resulting in a thicker consistency. Once strained, you add lemon zest and juice and chopped fresh dill.
Fried Lemon Slices
My husband and I were at Eatly in Los Angeles a few weeks ago. We ordered calamari and it came with these incredible Fried Lemon Slices. They were delicious dipped in Aioli. My daughter Grace tested them out on Mother's Day.
- Prep: 5 mins
- Cook: 5 mins
- Yields: 6 Servings
Thai Deviled Eggs
We went to a party for a friend you just became an American citizen. She is from Thailand and I was told to bring an hors d'oeuvres. Deviled eggs are very American, but I decided to add some Thai chili sauce to make these Thai Deviled Eggs. I love making variations to this traditional recipe.
- Prep: 10 mins
- Yields: 6 Servings
Crunchy Chickpeas 3 Ways
To me, snacks are all about texture and crunch. This is a very healthy, yet satisfying snack. You could slip these in among the chicken wings at your party. I have done in 3 ways. Please note that the chickpeas I used were very small and cooked much faster than 40 minutes. Watch them carefully after 30 minutes in the oven.
- Prep: 15 mins
- Cook: 45 mins
- Yields: 8 Servings
Crunchy Salt & Vinegar Chickpeas
My family has always been obsessed with anything salt and vinegar flavored. These Crunchy Salt & Vinegar Chickpeas are easy to make and so good, you might want to double the recipe.
- Prep: 5 mins
- Cook: 40 mins
Turkish Style Hummus
I make a lot of hummus for the kids at school. I don't think people realize how easy it is to make. I was talking with some friends (and you know who you are!) about Turkish Hummus which doesn't use tahini. This Turkish Style Hummus recipe uses Greek yogurt and plenty of fresh garlic and paprika for a tangy bite. The key to making great hummus is to peel the chickpeas. I have always known this, but never actually peeled the beans. I decided to make it properly and I have to say it does make a difference. If you want to come over, I will give you a glass of wine and you can peel my chickpeas, while I make dinner, of course!
- Prep: 20 mins
- Yields: 6 Servings
Rosemary Cashews
Here is a savory cocktail nibble that would satisfy a French host's needs. These Rosemary Cashews were inspired by the bar nuts served at Union Square Cafe in New York City, which is one of Ina Garten's favorite restaurants in the world. The cashews are best served warm, but you can prepare the rosemary mixture in advance.
- Prep: 5 mins
- Cook: 5 mins
- Yields: 8 Servings
Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Lemon-Chive Dipping Sauce
After eating these Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Lemon-Chive Dipping Sauce, you wonder why on earth you didn't like Brussels Sprouts as a kid! This is a snack without the guilt. You're welcome!
- Prep: 5 mins
- Cook: 20 mins
- Yields: 4 - 6 Servings
Pimiento Cheese
I grew up in the midwest and one of my favorite things was Kraft Pimento Spread in a little jar that you could use for a juice glass. I loved it with Cheez-its. Yes, I know "very classy", but it's delicious and I still like it! Anyway, I decided to make "real" Pimiento Cheese spread. It's mostly popular in the south. It has a hint of spiciness. This spread is perfect for parties served as an appetizer with crackers or spread it on a sandwich, burger, etc...
- Prep: 5 mins
- Yields: Makes about 1½ cups