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Showing posts with the label appetizer

SANDRA'S SOURDOUGH SMASHED-AVOCADO BRUSCHETTA

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A little bit of heaven in every bite, and these snacks are so easy to prepare  with ingredients I generally have on hand... Yield: 8 slices as a side, or 16 as an appetizer Prep: 10 Mins. Bake: 10 Mins. INGREDIENTS Sourdough: Click here for recipe: sourdough baguette 1 (12") sourdough baguette 1 fresh garlic clove, halved crosswise (for rubbing on hot toasted bread) Spread: 1 smashed avocado Bruschetta: 1 (14.5-oz can) diced Italian seasoned tomatoes*, drained (then squeezed with hands, and chopped finer) 3 large fresh basil leaves, julienned 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon Mazola oil 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Garnish: Feta cheese crumbles METHOD Preheat the oven to 350F. In a small bowl, add the tomatoes, basil, balsamic vinegar, oil, and salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly and let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature. Smash the avocado in a separate small bowl; set aside. Cut baguette in half lengthwise, place on a baking sheet, and ...

SANDRA�S JALAPE�O-LIME JAM

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My vibrant Jalape�o-Lime Jam is flecked with tiny bits of peppers that adds a jewel-like flair to appetizers. Spread on a block of warmed cream cheese and serve with crackers, or as stated below with Smoked Wild Alaska Salmon... Yield: 7 (8 oz) half pints Prep: 20 Mins. Process: 10 Mins. INGREDIENTS 12 medium jalape�o peppers, with ribs and seeds, roughly chopped 1-1/2 cups cider vinegar, divided 1/2 cup bottled lime juice 6 cups granulated sugar 2 (3-oz pouches) of Liquid Pectin 1 TB cold unsalted butter 10 drops natural green food coloring 7 (8 oz.) sterile glass canning jars with lids and bands METHOD Prepare boiling water canner. Heat jars in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil. Wash lids in warm soapy water and set bands aside. Puree peppers in food processor or blender with 1 cup cider vinegar until smooth. Do not strain pur�e. Combine pur�e with remaining 1/2 cup cider vinegar, 1/2 cup lime juice and sugar in a large heavy-bottom pot. Bring to a boil over high heat....

Hot Hamburger Dip

An old familiar classic.  2 lb. ground beef or pork 1/2 med. onion, chopped 3 green onions, sliced 1/2 green pepper 1/2 red pepper 1 cup processed cheese 1 can cream of mushroom soup 1 can tomato soup 2 tsp. chili powder 1/2 tsp. garlic powder salt to taste Fry meat with onions and peppers.  Drain fat if desired.  Add remaining ingredients.  Simmer 20-30 min.  Serve with chips or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Savory Party Bread

I first remember my sister-in-law, Rose, making this delectable treat for us.  It's easy to throw together and utterly delicious with pools of melted cheese and bites of chewy sourdough.  Another bonus is it can be made ahead and refrigerated until it's time to bake and serve. 1 large round loaf unsliced sourdough bread 1 lb.(454g) mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese, sliced 1/2 c. butter or margarine, melted 1/2 cup finely sliced green onion 2-3 tsp. poppy seed Cut bread into 1" slices without cutting through to the bottom crust.  Turn the loaf 1/4 turn and carefully slice again, the other direction, so the whole loaf is cut into 1" squares.  Place on a large piece of foil, and gather the foil up around the loaf to help hold everything together.  Insert sliced cheese into every cut, both directions. Combine melted butter, onions and poppy seed.  Drizzle over bread. Wrap up completely in foil.  Place on a baking sheet.  Bake at 350�F for 15 min....

SANDRA'S BEST ALASKAN SALMON DIP/SPREAD

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A go-to appetizer that is a family favorite which you are able to use with salmon (as I did here), or sub the salmon for cooked halibut, dungeness or tanner crab, or minced clams... --for king crab which is richer here's the link for that recipe  https://sandrarecipeblogsite.blogspot.com/2017/07/sandras-famous-alaskan-king-crab-dip.html#.WYAQGoTyvDc... Yield: (1-1/2 cups) Prep: 10 mins. INGREDIENTS 1 cup (about 2 fillets) prepared cooked, regular or smoked salmon, flaked (no bones or skin) --do not use lox-- 1/4 cup whipped cream cheese 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1/2 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon worcestershire 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic 1/4 teaspoon granulated onion 1/2 teaspoon old bay seasoning 1/4 teaspoon seasoning salt 1/4 teaspoon ground paprika Pinch of ground cayenne Pinch of freshly ground black pepper Serving options: --crackers --whole wheat bread slices quartered --cucumber slices --celery stocks --toasted baguette slices Garnish options: --Green...

SANDRA'S HOT ALASKAN MOOSE TACO DIP and MINI-BISCUIT APPETIZER

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I created this recipe after being inspired by several variations that I've had in the past. Here's my 'Alaska Spin' on this delightful appetizer -------- You are able to make it to your exact spiciness level versus my medium version ~ simply substitute milder salsa for a lighter dip or hotter salsa for a dip with more zest... Yields: 6 to 8 servings Prep: 15 Mins. Bake 23-25 Mins. INGREDIENTS Dip: 1 lb extra-lean moose burger 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic 1/4 teaspoon granulated onion 1 pkg. dry cheesy taco seasoning mix 2 cups medium salsa (from Costco) 1 cup Mexican-blend shredded cheese 1 cup shredded medium cheddar cheese 1 (4 oz. pkg.) cream cheese, cubed at room temperature --2 green onions (both white and green parts), sliced Atop dip/mini-biscuits: 1 pkg. Grand Biscuits, quartered and formed into balls 1 tablespoon melted butter 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic 1 teaspoon dry cilantro Paprika METHOD: Preheat oven to 350 degrees, while placing rack on lower 2/3...

SANDRA'S OVEN-ROASTED TOMATO BRUSCHETTA

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The mouth-watering scents while roasting are second to none, which provides for a super flavorful appetizer served hot, room temperature or cold... Yields: (Appx. 1-1/2 cups) Serves: 10-12 (i.e., 2/person) Prep: 5 Mins. Roast: 1-1/2 Hrs. INGREDIENTS Sandra's Homemade French Bread Recipe [Click here...] 2 (14.5-oz cans) organic stewed tomatoes, drained 3/4 cup finely chopped red onion 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1/2 teaspoon ground) 1/4 cup olive oil 2 teaspoons granulated garlic 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Finishing addition: --1-1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar, to finish topping --Shredded Parmesan, for serving garnish -- Prepared toasted baguette slices (See 'Tip' below)             [Click here for Sandra's Homemade French Bread recipe ] METHOD Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line baking sheet with parchment paper; spray with cooking spray. Place drained tomatoes ...

SANDRA'S ALASKAN SWEET-N-TANGY MEATBALLS

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Moist and tender meatballs simmered in a delectable, sweet and tangy sauce. ~~~ You may also choose to serve these scrumptious meatballs with a meal as a side or over prepared steamed rice! Servings: (4 to 6) Prep: 15 Mins. Cook: 20 Mins. INGREDIENTS 1 large egg, beaten 1 cup barbecue sauce (I used Sweet Baby Ray's), divided 1 lb. lean ground moose (or venison, elk, caribou, beef, poultry) 3 tablespoons minced yellow onion 3 tablespoons peeled (Yes, peeled) and minced red bell pepper 1/4 cup panko 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt (I used Johnny's) 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 (8 oz can) pineapple tidbits (or crushed) in juice, undrained 1/4 cup water For a meal (serve with): --2 cups of rice, prepared according to package directions METHOD In a medium bowl, beat the egg. Add 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (reserving remaining 3/4 cup), ground meat, minced onion and bell pepper, panko, seasoning salt, and pepper; gently mixing just until blended. Using a...

SANDRA'S LAYERED FRUITY OATMEAL BARS

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Luscious fruity goodness in every bite! If you're at all like me, you won't be able to stop with only one bar... Servings: (24 bars) Prep Time: 15 Mins. Cooking Time: 28 to 30 Mins. INGREDIENTS: Dough: � cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature � cup firmly packed brown sugar 1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom � teaspoon ground ginger � teaspoon fine-grain salt 3 cups old-fashioned oats (for more crunchier bars), --Or, quick cooking oats (for chewier bars) 1 cup raisins Filling: 1-1/4 cup jarred meatless mincemeat with apples and raisins (I use Nonesuch, not the 'dry' pkg'd type) PREPARATION: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a glass 9�x11� baking dish; set aside. In large stand mixer bowl, beat together butter and sugars until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla; beat well. In medium bowl, sift through a sieve the flour, baki...

Ham Roll-ups

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These are great little appetizers. That great thing is that really have no carbs in them or at least very little. One pound of sliced lunch meat ham. Small dill pickles or large ones quartered lengthwise. Cream cheese So how easy this can be?!? Peel off the ham slices one at a time and dry them with a paper towel. Spread the ham with softened cream cheese. Put a slice of the quartered pickle on one end and roll it up. Insert toothpicks into the rolled ham and slice between them. Viola! Ham Roll-ups! Enjoy! These are a great hours d'ouvre to bring to.a party. At least you won't feel guilty about eating these.

Sweet Potato Wedges

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Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed (peeled, optional) 1 stick plus 2 tbsp butter 1� tsp cinnamon tsp salt tsp pepper 3 tbsp brown sugar Preparation method: Preheat oven to 200� C(400� F). Cut the sweet potatoes lengthwise into wedges. Then ,put wedges in a large mixing bowl.In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter.When the butter melt-down , remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, pepper,salt and brown sugar.Add to the potato wedges and toss to coat.Spread the potatoes in an even layer on a baking sheet. Roast the potatoes for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.Remove from the oven to a serving dish and serve.

SANDRA'S ADDICTING MUSHROOM and JALAPENO POPPERS with BACON

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A perfectly addicting 2-for-1 side dish/appetizer  you're able to serve  hot out of the oven  or at room temperature. Don't wait for game day to enjoy all such deliciousness... Prep: 20 Mins. Bake: 30 Mins. Yields: (14 Mushrooms-7 Halved Jalapeno Poppers, with 1 jalapeno half being chopped to add to filling) INGREDIENTS 14 medium fresh button mushrooms, stems removed; reserve stems 4 large (4" long) fresh jalapenos, stems removed, including half of the ribs and seeds after cutting in 1/2 lengthwise --(Remove more or less ribs/seeds to your desired level of spiciness) 2 strips center-cut bacon, sliced into 1/2" pieces 1 teaspoon granulated garlic 1 (8 oz. tub) cream cheese, at room temperature 1/2 cup medium shredded cheddar cheese 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese 2 green onions (both green and white parts), finely sliced 1 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1 tablespoon dry Italian seasoned bread crumbs METHOD Preheat oven to 350 degre...

SANDRA�S OVEN-BAKED ALASKA DUNGENESS CRAB �N ARTICHOKE DIP

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An epic recipe that�s truly addicting, and lets the dungeness crab be the shining star... Serves: (10 to 12) Prep:10 Mins. Bake: 30 Mins. INGREDIENTS Dip: 1 (8 oz. pkg.) cream cheese, room temperature 1 cup grated medium cheddar cheese 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 3 green onions (green parts only), finely chopped Dash of cayenne pepper 1-1/2 teaspoons old bay seasoning 1-1/2 cups cooked dungeness crab meat, drain any liquid, if present --(About 1 shucked dungeness crab) 1 (7 oz. jar) quartered artichoke hearts in water, drained, and roughly chopped --[Please do not use marinated artichokes, as they have too strong of a flavor profile for this dish] For scooping: --Butter crackers (I used Club), or toasted French bread slices METHOD Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9� round (or square) ovenproof baking dish, and set aside. In a medium bowl, add cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice,...

Outrageous Warm Chicken Nacho Dip

A warm, yummy, cheesy dip perfect for taking in a slow cooker to a potluck.  Serve with tortilla chips.  I doubled the recipe. 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers (such as RO*TEL�), drained   1 (1 pound) loaf processed cheese food (such as Velveeta�), cubed   2 large cooked skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, shredded   1/3 cup sour cream   1/4 cup diced green onion   1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix   2 tablespoons minced jalapeno pepper, or to taste (optional)   1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained   Directions: Place the diced tomatoes, processed cheese, chicken meat, sour cream, green onion, taco seasoning, and jalapeno pepper...

Shrimp and Cream Cheese Spread

This simple recipe is a long-time Clark family classic. We've never made it without our homemade chili sauce, but I assume that you could make do with a commercial version, if pressed. 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened 1 to 1/2 cup chili sauce (this is a key source of the spread's flavor, and homemade chili sauce is by far the best; I haven't actually measured the exact amount, but there should be enough for there to be a thin layer over the cream cheese) 1 hard boiled egg, chopped 1 4-ounce can tiny shrimp, drained and crumbled 1/2 to 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional) Crackers (we usually use Ritz crackers or Wheat Thins) Spread softened cream cheese on a flat platter, approximately 9 inches in diameter. Top with chili sauce and sprinkle with chopped, hard boiled egg and broken shrimp. Add parsley, if desired. Chill. Serve spread on crackers.

Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple Bites

Easy, easy appetizer. The salty, chewiness of the bacon makes a good combination with the sweetness of the pineapple and the brown sugar. 1 whole pineapple, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks (the original recipe called for canned pineapple, so that is an option, but fresh pineapple is so much better; actually, I used pre-cut fresh pineapple from Costco) 1 pound thin-sliced bacon, cut in half 3 to 4 tablespoons dark brown sugar Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Wrap each chunk of pineapple in a half strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Place on a wire baking rack or lined cookie sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes. Remove and sprinkle with brown sugar. Preheat broiler. Place the pan under the broiler for a few minutes. Keep your eyes on the pineapple bites so they don't burn. Let cool slightly and serve. Makes 25 pineapple bites.

Petite Lasagnas

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I made these for our "Super bowl party". Tyler loves lasagna but I really don't like making it. This was a great substitute. I was leary of the wontons, but it really worked out. Kenny liked it that I let them bake for awhile so the tops of the wontons got crunchy. And...I am lazy and I didn't make the sauce from scratch, I just used bottled pasta sauce. But this give you an idea of you can work with. There are additional pictures of how to put them together here . (makes 12) 12 oz raw ground turkey (I used a pound of hamburger, it doesn't matter) � tsp salt, divided � tsp pepper 1 cup chopped onion � cup chopped mushrooms 14.5 oz can crushed tomatoes, or tomato sauce 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 tsp dried oregano, divided � tsp dried basil 1 � cups part skim ricotta cheese 24 small square wonton wrappers (the kind near the tofu in the refrigerated section of the produce dept) 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Preheat oven to 375�F. Heat a lar...

Sweet & Sour Meatballs

My sister Emily made these the other day for a family party, and everyone loved them, especially the kids. Many family members went back for seconds. Of course, what I also like about this dish is that it couldn't be easier--pre-cooked meatballs and a quick sauce. And these meatballs can be served as an appetizer or over rice for a main dish. 1 cup chili sauce 1 cup grape jelly 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 6-pound bag of Kirkland pre-cooked meatballs (I prefer to NOT get the Italian flavored meatballs but it won't make that big of a difference) Put all ingredients in a crockpot and cook on high for about 4 hours. Stir meatballs several times during the cooking process.

DELICIOUSLY DECADENT LOBSTER ARTICHOKE DIP

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What is not to love about the deliriously perfect pairing of artichoke and lobster? File this wonderful recipe away for that 'rainy day'. 16oz. cream cheese~softened 2 cups mayonnaise 12oz. frozen canned lobster-thawed & drained 1 (14oz) can artichoke hearts-drained & chopped 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese 2/3 cup chopped sweet onion Blend the cream cheese and mayonnaise in large bowl until smooth. Shred the lobster with your fingers, discarding any cartilage. Add the lobster, artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese and onion to the mayonnaise mixture, mixing well. Spoon into a 2-quart baking dish, bake at 375 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes or until bubbly and heated through. Serve with crackers and fresh veggies. Yield: 14 to 16 servings COOKS NOTE: You may substitute 12oz. imitation crab meat or canned crab meat, drained, for the frozen canned lobster. While frozen lobster is expensive, it really makes this dish outstanding. "I never met a lobster I didn't love!...

Stuffed Mushrooms

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16 oz  whole mushrooms (not the sliced ones) 1  8 oz package cream cheese 1 T finely chopped green onion 3 T crumbled bacon freshly cracked pepper Grated Cheddar Cheese 1. Wash your mushrooms and remove the stems.  2. Chop up a green onion into tiny, tiny pieces. Add 1 T of the green onion to your cream cheese.   3. Add your 3 T of bacon. Throw in a tiny bit of freshly cracked pepper. Mix it all around to combine.   4. Place your mushrooms on a sprayed cookie sheet. Fill the insides with your cream cheese mixture.   5. Bake at 400 for 15 -20 minutes. Top with cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese the last four minutes of baking. Eat nice and hot from the oven. They cool down very quickly and aren't quite as tasty eaten cold.