Sharing delicious recipes from our kitchen

Tag: starters

Marinated Cheese ~ Nakladany Hermilin

Marinated Cheese ~ Nakladany Hermilin

Creamy and smooth with an almost velvet-like texture, this marinated or “pickled” cheese is a favorite appetizer found in most any local restaurant in the Czech Republic.  Garlic, onion, herbs, and a some hot peppers give this treat an amazing depth of flavor.  Served with some 

Hot Artichoke & Parmesan Dip

Hot Artichoke & Parmesan Dip

Greek yogurt helps deliver a smooth creamy texture and a bit of tang to this artichoke and Parmesan dip. Hot and gooey, this molten cheese dip is perfect as an appetizer for any occasion. Delicious with crackers, cocktail bread, or try it on one of my 

Loaded Tots

Loaded Tots

Crispy tater tots are smothered with Queso, covered with giardiniera, and topped with fresh scallions to create an explosion of textures and flavors in this amazing dish. This interesting spin on traditional nachos is the perfect treat to enjoy with friends over a cold brew, 

My Favorite Fall Salad

My Favorite Fall Salad

Warm toasted walnuts, Craisins, feta cheese, and red onion on a bed of crisp mixed greens give this salad a festive feeling of fall. Tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette dressing, this dish is satisfying for a light lunch or perfect as the starter for your holiday meal. 

Best of Summer: Appetizers

Best of Summer: Appetizers

Snacks, appetizers, pu pu’s, tapas, or starters. No matter what you call them, we are all crazy about them. As a first course or a meal, these little gems are always a hit. So next on our list, we are looking at the summers most 

Grilled Crostini with Olive Tapenade

Grilled Crostini with Olive Tapenade

If you are looking for an easy appetizer idea, that is something other than ordinary, this spicy olive tapenade is perfect.  This tangy southern French paste is wonderful enjoyed on toasted bread, served as a dip, or used for a sandwich spread. The combination of 

Cucumber Cups with Mushroom Relish

Cucumber Cups with Mushroom Relish

An interesting combination of flavors and textures make these mushroom filled cucumbers a tantalizing treat.  Served as an appetizer or a salad, these visually stunning cups are certain to amaze anyone at your dinner table.

Roasted Garlic Hummus

Roasted Garlic Hummus

In my life I have worn many different hats in my struggle for the legal tender. There was one chapter that I particularly enjoyed which required extensive travel overseas. I was working for a sportswear company that produced garments in every corner of the world. My job 

Holy Guacamole!

Holy Guacamole!

I pride myself on finding creative things to prepare with items that I find on sale.  I also focus on buying fruits and vegetables that are in season. For example, planning a dish that requires lots of fresh tomatoes in the dead of winter usually results