Banh Mi Bites

Could there possibly be a better sandwich than the Banh Mi? Crispy pickled vegetables, spiced pork or chicken, chili sauce, cilantro, maybe pate or sriracha, all on a baguette roll; the list of ingredients is somewhat debatable but always delicious.  Such strong and fresh flavors are also perfect for an appetizer.  Here is a recipe for some cute little bites which pack a lot of flavor and will look festive on your platter.  They do have a few steps, so start them ahead of time, but none of it is complicated, and making the won ton cups couldn’t be easier or more satisfying! If you haven’t made them before, you will want to use them for all kinds of other fun little treats. Read More


Spicy little chicken wings

Good news– these drip free chicken wings can be consumed while wearing your best white clothes… or at a business lunch… or maybe out on a first date.  They are covered in a garlicky and spicy rub, which bakes into the wings for good flavor, but there is no sauce to run down to your elbow or stain your fancy new picnic napkins.  And despite their tidy demeanor, they are also tasty and juicy enough to be a hit at a block party or potluck.  All-in-all, a welcome addition to your appetizer repertoire.   Read More


Mango-ginger chicken lettuce wraps

Quick, easy, healthy and versatile– what’s not to love about that?  Diced and spiced chicken is cooked with garlic, ginger, onions and peppers, then tossed with mango and cilantro for a tasty lettuce wrap filling.  It is equally nice in a tortilla wrap, over rice or tossed in a salad.  Try it with coconut rice for an escapist Caribbean vibe… Read More



Easy peasy cheesy truffles

There is a lot of balancing that goes into planning a winning party appetizer menu.  It’s a challenge to come up with that perfect palate satisfying mix of flavors and textures plus an aesthetically pleasing presentation which is within your budget PLUS pulling it all together seamlessly— whew!  One handy trick is an arsenal of super easy but yummy and attractive recipes.  Then you can add one or two show stoppers ( or perhaps buy them) and there you are, the hostess with the mostest.

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Asian meatballs with pineapple and pea pods

Here is an appetizer recipe that will please just about everyone on your guest list.  Bursting with ginger, garlic, soy and cilantro, they are baked and then covered in a sweet and spicy sauce. They hold up well in a chafing dish and  are terrific when skewered with pineapple chunks and pea pods. If there happen to be any leftovers, they are delicious in a wrap for lunch the next day or over rice for dinner! Read More