Healthy Summer Dips

My 4-year-old loves hummus! I feel like screaming it from the rooftops. (But, I’ll settle for announcing it in cyberspace.) Like most kids she doesn’t exactly embrace new foods, but the “smooshy” substance that sat on my plate during a rare lunch out last month intrigued her and she asked to try it. I obliged and to my surprise (make that utter shock) she announced that it was “YUMMY!” After that meal I went out and bought several containers of hummus (infused with different flavors including artichoke, lemon and smoked peppers). However, at $3 for just a few ounces I … Continue reading

More Delicious Party Dips: Fiesta Dip and Cheesy Gorgonzola Dip

If you are struggling to find the perfect dish to take to an office party, potluck or family get together you’re in luck. For the past week I have been scouring my recipe boxes in search of the perfect contributions to the huge bash my friends are hosting on Sunday in honor of the Green Bay Packers making it to the NFC Championship game. In two days the Green and Gold will slaughter the New York Giants while we gorge on Spicy Sloppy Joes, Crunchy Cole Slaw, Crab Dip, and dozens of other tasty dishes. When the party is over … Continue reading

Two Hearty Crab Dips

Regis Philbin has made a point to plug the NFL match up between the Green Bay Packers and the New York Giants at the start of his syndicated talk show EVERYDAY this week. Which makes me feel less guilty about posting the recipes I am making for the NFC Championship game viewing party I’m attending on Sunday. Living in Wisconsin–where some businesses are planning to close early just so their employees can watch the game at home—-it’s hard not to get caught up in all the hoopla. But, even if you are not hosting an AFC or NFC Championship party … Continue reading

Easy New Year’s Eve Appetizers

Last December I went to a New Year’s Eve party at a friend’s house, but instead of serving traditional prime rib, she went all out making dozens (yes, dozens) of unique appetizers. She had a few hearty ones that were rich and delicious, but she also made sure to put out a few lighter options too. I loved them all, and the best part was that I didn’t feel guilty trying a little of everything. Creating a New Year’s Eve buffet with an array of appetizers gives your guests the chance to sample a variety of dishes, like these: SHRIMP … Continue reading

New Year’s Eve Surf and Turf

Forget about turkey, ham or prime rib. When it comes to splurging on New Year’s Eve, “Surf and Turf” selections should be at the top of the list. The seafood and meat combo doesn’t have to be extremely expensive or extravagant, as long as it packs a punch in the flavor department. The follow simple recipes will help you ring in the New Year in style: SEAFOOD SHELLS Ingredients: 1 package Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry Shells 6 tablespoons butter, divided 1/2 pound medium shrimp, shelled and deveined 1/2 pound scallops 1/2 cup crab meat 1/4 cup diced red pepper 1/4 … Continue reading

Graduation Party Recipes

With graduation party season well underway, you may be looking for a recipe that is easy to prepare, can feed an army of people, and more importantly, looks and tastes great. The following recipes are ideal for graduation parties or family potlucks, which call for eye and palette pleasing dishes: CRAB STUFFED MUSHROOMS Ingredients: 1 16-ounce container of large mushrooms 1 (7-ounce) can lump crabmeat, drained 3 green onions with tops, finely chopped 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 3/4 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup crushed croutons Paprika … Continue reading

What to do with Leftover Super Bowl Snacks

Sunday’s Super Bowl was one for the history books. It’s not every year that viewers are treated to a nail biter that’s actually worth watching, but this year’s match-up between Arizona and Pittsburgh delivered. Ironically, the action of the field kept some from devouring my friend’s Super Bowl spread. Last night she called complaining about major leftovers. My suggestion: Put the snacks to good use in recipes that can be served as part of weeknight meals. You can use up leftover chicken to make a spicy Buffalo Chicken Wing Dip and boring baked potatoes can transformed into Kicked Up Potato … Continue reading

Sizzling Hot Super Bowl Ribs and Other Tasty Game Day Treats

The countdown to the big game is on and even if you can’t make it to Tampa in time for kick off you can still make it a Super Bowl to remember by whipping up the following mouthwatering recipes: SIZZLING HOT SUPER BOWL RIBS Ingredients: Baby back ribs Your favorite rib rub BBQ sauce Fresh lemon juice Olive oil Directions: Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Place ribs on heavy-duty foil. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze fresh lemon juice on top of ribs. Sprinkle generously both sides of ribs with your favorite rib rub or with a mixture of salt, … Continue reading

Kicked Up Super Bowl Recipes

Are you are hosting a Super Bowl party tomorrow? If so, then why not ditch the pizza for a something a little spicier. The following easy to prepare recipes are ideal for feeding large groups. Plus, since these dishes are such a cinch to make, you can enjoy the game with your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen all evening. KICKED UP BAKED BEANS Ingredients: 4 cups dry navy beans 1 tablespoon salt 3 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons molasses 3 strips bacon (cut into small pieces) 1 chopped onion 2 tablespoons mustard 1/2 cup of your favorite … Continue reading

Simple Super Bowl Sides

A week from now millions will gather around their big screen and fill their faces while cheering on the combatants of Super Bowl XLIII – the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Arizona Cardinals. The big game kicks off on February 1st and if you don’t already know what you will be serving up to your super hungry Super Bowl guests, you might consider the following super simple recipes: FETA AND ARTICHOKE DIP Ingredients: 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained, chopped 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled 1 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped 1 … Continue reading