Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Tis the season for entertaining, and just in time for the New Year's celebrations, many of our readers have requested a reprint of the recipe for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi. Since we aim to please, following is the copycat recipe we posted earlier for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi:

Many people argue that Red Lobster makes THE absolute best shrimp scampi recipe this side of the Atlantic, and after many shrimp scampi taste tests from various restaurants, we had to agree, and subsequently published a Red Lobster garlic shrimp scampi recipe in an earlier post.

But now many of our time-pressured, kitchen-phobic readers have written to us requesting options for an easy shrimp scampi recipe, so we did our research again and came up with this copycat recipe for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi.

This easy shrimp scampi recipe can be accompanied by pasta if serving as a main meal instead of a shrimp appetizer.

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

1 cup White Wine (preferably a Chablis)
1/2 cup unsalted Butter
3 tablespoon minced Garlic
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
1 pound Shrimp, peeled and deveined
salt & pepper, to taste
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (if desired as garnish)

Combine the butter, wine, garlic and shrimp in a pan. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for about 6 to 7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink. Be careful not to overcook the Shrimp. Add parsley and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Garnish with parmesan cheese if desired. Serve.

As an appetizer, approximately 21-25 pieces of extra-large shrimp per pound, 26-30 pieces of large shrimp per pound, 31-40 pieces of medium shrimp per pound.
Makes 4 servings if served as a main course.

Enjoy!

For more great shrimp appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

Make Ahead Appetizers - Salt Baked Baby Potato Cups with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

The key to holiday entertaining is to have a variety of wonderful make ahead appetizers to eliminate the stress on party day, and with the New Year's celebrations just around the corner, everyone is searching for some new and unusual party appetizers to ring in the new year.

This wonderful recipe for Salt Baked Baby Potato Cups with Goat Cheese and Walnuts is certain to please - you won't find these unique make ahead appetizers on every party appetizers table, yet once you try them, these delicious gourmet appetizers will become a party appetizers staple for years to come.

Salt Baked Baby Potato Cups with Goat Cheese and Walnuts courtesy of Kendra Bailey and HomeMade Simple.

Makes 24 hors d’oeuvres.

INGREDIENTS

45 mL (3 tbsp.) walnuts, halved
500 mL (2 cups) and 15 mL (1 tbsp.) kosher salt
24 red bliss potatoes, or other small potatoes of your choice
30 mL (2 tbsp.) canola oil
5 mL (1 tsp.) ground pepper
225 grams (8 ounces) goat cheese or chèvre, room temperature*
30 mL (2 tbsp.) chives or green onions, minced
5 mL (1 tsp.) rosemary or thyme, minced
Extra sprigs of rosemary or thyme, for garnish
*115 grams (4 ounces) cream cheese and 115 grams (4 ounces) goat cheese can be substituted.

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
Spread walnuts on baking sheet and toast for 8 minutes. Set aside. Lower oven temperature to 180°C (350°F).
In a large bowl, toss potatoes in canola oil, pepper and 15 mL (1 tbsp.) salt.
Spread 500 mL (2 cups) of kosher salt on a baking sheet. Spread potatoes evenly on salted baking sheet and roast for about 35 minutes or until tender when pierced. Let cool, and then rub off the excess salt.
While the potatoes are cooking, combine goat cheese, onion and rosemary (or thyme) in a medium-sized bowl.
Cut off tops of potatoes and scoop out half of the inside. A melon baller works well for this. Discard the potato insides or save for another use, such as homemade hashbrowns or to add to soup or stews.
Fill each potato cup with goat cheese mixture and top with a halved walnut. Garnish the serving platter with extra sprigs of herbs.

Tip: Use a pastry bag to fill your potato cups. If you don’t have one, create your own by filling a large re-sealable plastic bag with cheese mixture and snipping off the bottom corner. Be sure to squeeze the bag from the top and not the bottom, so the filling doesn’t overflow over the edge.

Tip: To add extra flair to your presentation and prevent your potatoes from tipping over, spread rock salt on a platter and nestle the potatoes into it.

Tip: To save time before your party, bake the potatoes and scoop out the insides a day ahead of time. Just brush the potatoes in oil and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also make cheese mixture the day before. When ready to serve, briefly reheat the potatoes, fill with cheese and season with salt and pepper.

For more great make ahead appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

The Secret to Entertaining Success - Make Ahead Appetizers for your Party

Friends are always asking what the secret is to my relaxed attitude towards the food preparation for my cocktail parties, and my answer is repeatedly the same - ALWAYS look for make ahead appetizers for your party! Wherever possible, do your prep work the day before your soiree and keep it simple. Quick easy appetizers can be just as delicious as the appetizers you slave over for hours and it takes the same amount of time to eat them whether you've spent hours or minutes on the preparation.

But even make ahead appetizers for your party will require some work on your end. Do a bit of research to find recipes for easy party appetizers, and keep to the theme of your party whether it be Summer fun or Christmas cheer. Where possible, assemble your ingredients a day ahead and do the final assembly just before your guests arrive. For example, vegetables for a veggie tray can be cut up the day prior to your party and left soaking in water in the fridge until you are ready to plate. This frees up your time on party day to socialize together with your friends in the backyard instead of alone with your appetizers in the kitchen. After all, a party is supposed to be fun for everyone (that includes you!!).

For some suggestons to get you started, check out the recipes for great time-saving make ahead appetizers for your party on our website at http://www.appetizersunlimited.com/.
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit http://www.amateur-chef.com/

Party Appetizers - Phyllo Wrapped Baked Brie Appetizer

When making the list for your party appetizers at this busy time of year, for the easiest and most popular party appetizers (or for those unexpected guests who drop by unannounceh), always make certain to keep a round of brie cheese and some artisan crackers on hand for a quick and easy baked brie appetizer.

This delicious recipe for Phyllo Wrapped Baked Brie Appetizer can be prepared, baked and served in under 30 minutes. And there is a good reason that this baked brie appetizer is one of our most popular party appetizers recipe - it just tastes so darn good!!

From the Kraft Appetizer Recipes Collection:

Phyllo Wrapped Baked Brie Appetizer

Ingredients:
1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
1 green onion, chopped
2 Tbsp. Balsamic vinaigrette dressing
4 sheets frozen phyllo, thawed
2 Tbsp. butter, melted
1 pkg. (125 g) brie cheese
Selection of crackers for serving

Directions:
HEAT oven to 400°F. Cook mushrooms and onions in dressing in skillet until tender. Cool.

BRUSH 1 phylllo sheet with butter; cover with remaining phyllo sheets, brushing each layer with butter before stacking. Cut 10-inch circle from stack; discard trimmings.

CUT cheese horizontally in half; place 1/2 in centre of phyllo stack. Top with 1/2 the mushroom mixture, remaining cheese and mushrooms. Fold phyllo around cheese, folding as necessary to completely enclose cheese; brush with remaining butter. Place on baking sheet or in pie plate.

BAKE 15 min. or until golden brown. Serve with crackers.

Substitute: Whole cooked cranberries, cooled, for the mushrooms for a festive touch.
Tips: To cut down on preparation time, purchase pre-sliced mushrooms for use in this recipe.
Tips: Use a clean pair of kitchen shears to cut out the phyllo circle.

Recipe courtesy Kraft Canada.

For more great party appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

Party Appetizers - Wonton Appetizers Bites

The holidays can be hectic but preparing your party appetizers doesn't need to be -with a little bit of advance planning and some creative recipes for make ahead appetizers such as wonton appetizers, you can keep your last minute preparations to a minimum.

One of our favorite party appetizers is this easy recipe for Wonton Appetizers Bites from the Kraft Appetizer Recipes Collection. This appetizer recipe is quick to assemble, can be prepared up to the point of baking a day prior to your party, and offers a lot of variations to 'change it up'.

Wonton Appetizers are great party appetizers to make for large or small crowds, are suitable for any occasion, and offer a uniquely different appetizer choice from the usual party appetizers fare.

Wonton Appetizers Bites

Ingredients:
24 wonton wrappers
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar Cheese
1/2 cup chopped pepperoni
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/4 cup chopped green peppers
1/4 cup chopped red peppers

Directions:
HEAT oven to 350ºF.

SPRAY 24 muffin cups with cooking spray. Gently place 1 won ton wrapper in each cup, with edges of wrappers extending up sides of cups.

BAKE 5 to 7 min. or until lightly browned. (Do not overbake.) Meanwhile, mix remaining ingredients.

FILL won ton cups with cheese mixture. Bake 6 to 8 min. or until cheese is melted.

Tips:
Substitue: Tex-Mex Shredded Cheese for the Monterey Jack cheese.
Make Ahead: Prepare won ton appetizers except for baking. Refrigerate several hours or overnight. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Substitute: ham or hot Italian sausage for the pepperoni.

Wonton Appetizers Bites recipe courtesy Kraft Canada.

For more great party appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

Shrimp Appetizers - Coconut Shrimp with Basil Pineapple Salsa

Shrimp Appetizers are always the most popular party appetizers at any party, and this trendy version of coconut shrimp appetizers are guaranteed to be the hit at your next get together.

The combination coconut and pineapple give these Shrimp appetizers an island flavor, with the Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese adding a unique twist to create Shrimp Appetizers suitable for any occasion!

Shrimp appetizers recipe courtesy Tre Stella Melt Magazine.

Coconut Shrimp Appetizers with Basil Pineapple Salsa

Salsa
1 cup (250 mL) fresh or canned pineapple, finely diced
3 green onions, sliced
8 basil leaves, julienned
1 jalapeño pepper,seeded and finely chopped
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 lime, juiced
salt and freshly ground black pepper

Shrimp
1 lb (454 g) medium raw shrimp, peeled,de-veined and dried well on paper towels
1/3 cup (80 mL) cornstarch
1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt
1/2 tsp (2 mL) cayenne pepper
3 egg whites
1 cup (250 mL) flaked unsweetened coconut
3/4 cup (175 mL) Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese, grated

In a medium bowl combine all salsa ingredients, stir, cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Best made a day ahead of serving to allow flavours to blend.

Preheat oven to 400F (200C).
In a medium shallow dish, combine cornstarch, salt and cayenne pepper; set aside.
In another medium shallow dish, combine coconut and grated Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese.
In a medium bowl add egg whites and beat with electric mixer until frothy; approximately 2 minutes.
Coat a large cookie sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
Working with one shrimp at a time: dredge in cornstarch mixture, dip in egg white, then in coconut/cheese mixture, pressing gently with fingers.
Place shrimp on prepared sheet.
Repeat with remaining shrimp.
Bake 20 minutes or until shrimp are done, turning after 10 minutes.
Remove from oven and serve with Basil Pineapple Salsa.
Makes approximately 24 medium shrimp

For more great shrimp appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

Easiest Finger Appetizers - Almond Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Prunes

The holiday entertaining season is here and many of us are struggling to cope with hectic work and home schedules as well as an endless number of holiday parties, so keep your party appetizers simple for the key to stress-free entertaining with some of the easiest finger appetizers recipes available.

This recipe for Almond Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Prunes is one of the easiest finger appetizers to prepare and makes for easy cutlery-free entertaining, yet tastes absolutely delicious! With only 3 ingredients, these easy to make appetizers can be quickly assembled for impromptu gatherings as well!

These easy to make appetizers are proof that delicious party appetizers don't need to be complicated!

Almond Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Prunes

Ingredients
24 pitted prunes
24 almonds, toasted
12 slices bacon

Directions
Heat the oven to 450°F/230°C. Stuff the prunes with the almonds. Cut the bacon in half and wrap a piece around each date. Set on a baking sheet and broil about 10 minutes, turning once, until the bacon is crisp. Serve hot with cocktail picks for spearing.

Recipe courtesy The Food Network.

For more easiest finger appetizers recipes visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

Party Appetizers - Crab Rangoon Recipe

Popular party appetizers, Crab rangoon are deep-fried dumpling-like appetizers that are commonly served in American-style Chinese cuisine.

Although the crab rangoon recipe is said to have originated in China or Southeast Asia, this is likely not the case since cream cheese which is one of the main ingredients in the crab rangoon recipe, is essentially nonexistent in that area of the world. Crab Rangoon has appeared on the appetizers menu of the Polynesian-style Trader Vic's Restaurant in San Francisco since at least 1957, and it is more likely that this is where the Crab Rangoon recipe was actually invented.

Regardless of where the original Crab Rangoon recipe was created, one thing remains certain, as far as party appetizers go, Crab Rangoon are delicious and easy to make appetizers that will impress your guests regardless of the occasion!!

This Crab Rangoon recipe comes from Shirley Fong-Torres, daughter of the original chef at Trader Vic's restaurant.

Crab Rangoon Recipe

Ingredients:
1/2 pound cooked crab meat or smoked salmon, lightly flaked
1 teaspoon green onion, finely minced
1/4 pound cream cheese (at room temperature)
1/2 teaspoon steak sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves minced garlic
1 pound won ton wrappers
1 beaten egg or 2 egg whites
3 cups vegetable oil

Preparation:
Combine crab meat or smoked salmon, green onion, cream cheese, steak sauce, and garlic.

Place 1/2 teaspoon of mixture in center or won ton wrapper; fold square over to form triangle. Lightly brush the center with the beaten egg.

Bring opposite corners together and press gently, so filling will be secure. Place oil in wok and heat to 375 degrees for deep-frying.

Deep-fry one crab or salmon puff and adjust heat downwards if necessary. Fry rest of puffs until delicately brown, less than two minutes. Serve hot.

For more great party appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit http://www.amateur-chef.net/

Crab rangoon are deep-fried dumpling-like appetizers that are commonly served in American-style Chinese cuisine.

Although the crab rangoon recipe is said to have originated in China or Southeast Asia, this is likely not the case since cream cheese which is one of the main ingredients in the crab rangoon recipe, is essentially nonexistent in that area of the world. Crab Rangoon has appeared on the menu of the Polynesian-style Trader Vic's Restaurant in San Francisco since at least 1957, and it is more likely that this is where the Crab Rangoon recipe was actually invented.

Regardless of where the original Crab Rangoon recipe was created, one thing remains certain, Crab Rangoon are delicious and easy to make appetizers that will impress your guests regardless of the occasion!!

This Crab Rangoon recipe comes from Shirley Fong-Torres, daughter of the original chef at Trader Vic's restaurant.

Crab Rangoon Recipe

Ingredients:
1/2 pound cooked crab meat or smoked salmon, lightly flaked
1 teaspoon green onion, finely minced
1/4 pound cream cheese (at room temperature)
1/2 teaspoon steak sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves minced garlic
1 pound won ton wrappers
1 beaten egg or 2 egg whites
3 cups vegetable oil

Preparation:
Combine crab meat or smoked salmon, green onion, cream cheese, steak sauce, and garlic.

Place 1/2 teaspoon of mixture in center or won ton wrapper; fold square over to form triangle. Lightly brush the center with the beaten egg.

Bring opposite corners together and press gently, so filling will be secure. Place oil in wok and heat to 375 degrees for deep-frying.

Deep-fry one crab or salmon puff and adjust heat downwards if necessary. Fry rest of puffs until delicately brown, less than two minutes. Serve hot.

For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

Easy Appetizers - Brie Crab Appetizers Recipe

This time of year is a continuous whirlwind of parties, and trying to throw together some quick easy appetizers for unexpected get togethers can throw most people into a a tizzy but with a few easy appetizer recipes on hand, you can pull off that impromptu soiree like a pro.

Easy appetizers don't need to be frozen appetizers or a bag of chips with dip. Instead keep a variety of cheeses on hand for some easy to make appetizers that will compete with even the gourmet appetizers offered by catering companies. Brie cheese recipes such as an easy baked brie appetizer or this delicious Brie Crab Appetizers Recipe, courtesy Alouette Cheese, will have your guests raving about your gourmet appetizers!!

Baby Brie Crab Appetizers Recipe

Ingredients

1 pkg. (8 oz.) Alouette Baby Brie Cheese
1 can (6 oz.) crab meat with leg meat, well drained
2 tbsp. mayonnaise
1 tbsp. diced pimiento (from 2 oz. jar), drained
1 tbsp. minced shallot
2 pkg. (2.1 oz. each) frozen phyllo tartlet shells
1 tbsp. chopped fresh chives

Directions

Heat oven to 350 F.

Trim rind from outside edge of cheese.
Cut crosswise into 6 strips. Trim rind from each strip.

To form 30 pieces, cut the 4 longest strips each into 6 cubes.
Cut the 2 shortest strips each into 3 cubes.

In small bowl, combine crab meat, mayonnaise, pimiento and shallot.

Arrange tartlet shells on large cookie sheet. Spoon crab mixture evenly into tartlet shells, about 1 tsp. each. Top with cheese cube.

Bake 5 minutes or until cheese is soft and melted.
Sprinkle with chives.

For more easy appetizer recipes visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

Baked Brie Appetizer with Pear and Red Onion Chutney

Just in time for the holiday entertaining season comes this updated version of the basic baked brie appetizer - a delicious Bake Brie Appetizer with Pear and Red Onion Chutney!!

A baked brie appetizer is one of the most versatile appetizers you can serve and is always a party appetizers favorite. Change your toppings with the to include seasonal produce to create a whole new baked brie appetizer suitable for any occasion.

This Baked Brie Appetizer with Pear and Red Onion Chutney is a perfect additon to any holiday party appetizers table - make lots as this baked brie appetizer is so delicous, it will have your guests lining up for more!

Baked Brie Appetizer with Pear and Red Onioin Chutney

Ingredients
2 x 125g packs Rosenborg-Castello® Brie Cheeses
Chutney :
2 x medium red onions - thinly sliced
1-2 tbsp oil
1/4 cup sugar
1 ripe pear - peeled, cored and diced
2-3 tbsp. apple juice
Walnut bread and a few salad leaves to serve.

Method
Preheat oven to 400 F (200 C).
1. Make chutney by gently sauteeing the onion in the oil until soft and transparent - this will take about 10 minutes. Stir in sugar, pears and a little apple juice and continue cooking to soften pears and combine all the ingredients. Remove from heat and cool.
2. Place Brie on a baking sheet and bake for 10 - 12 minutes - until they feel soft when gently pressed on top.
3. Serve Baked brie appetizer with chunks of walnut bread, or artisan crackers and the chutney.

Recipe courtesy Rosenborg-Castello.

For more great baked brie appetizer recipes visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

Make Ahead Appetizers - Spinach Phyllo Roll-Ups

The Kraft Appetizer Recipes Collection of make ahead appetizers is a veritable treasure trove of quick easy appetizer ideas for the holiday entertaining season, and this delicious appetizer recipe for Spinach Phyllo Roll-Ups is no exception.

Great make ahead appetizers are the base around which to build any party appetizers table, and make ahead appetizers are also perfect to keep in the freezer for those guests who drop by unexpectedly over the holiday season.

The delicious Spinach Phyllo Roll-Ups can be stored unbaked in the freezer up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply pull out your make ahead appetizers and bake!

Make Ahead Appetizers - Spinach Phyllo Roll-Ups

Ingredients:
1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
1 egg, beaten
1 tub (250 g) Philadelphia cream cheese spread
1 cup Kraft Feta with Oregano, Sun Dried Tomatoes and Cracked Peppercorns
1 pkg. (300 g) frozen chopped spinach, thawed, well drained
15 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed, divided
1/3 cup butter, melted, divided

Directions:
COMBINE all ingredients except phyllo and butter. Place 1 phyllo sheet on clean work surface; brush lightly with butter. Top with 2 more phyllo sheets, brushing some of the remaining butter between each layer. Place remaining phyllo between sheets of plastic wrap; set aside.

SPREAD 1/5 of the the spinach mixture along one short side of phyllo stack to within 1 inch of ends. Fold in long sides of phyllo; roll up from one short side to make log. Brush with some of the remaining butter. Repeat with remaining phyllo sheets, spinach mixture and butter. To prevent phyllo from cracking, score logs at 1-inch intervals.

PLACE in large freezer-weight resealable plastic bags. (Or wrap tightly in plastic wrap until ready to bake.) Remove from freezer 30 min. before baking. Let stand at room temperature while heating oven to 375ºF. Place on baking sheet.

BAKE 25 min. or until golden brown. Cool 5 min. Transfer to cutting board. Use serrated knife to cut each log into 6 slices to serve.

Recipe courtesy Kraft Canada.

For more great make ahead appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

Make Ahead Appetizers - Holiday Cheese Truffles

Make ahead appetizers are tremendous time savers throughout the holiday entertaining season, and these quick easy appetizers from the Kraft appetizer recipes collection are not only great make ahead appetizers, they are also some of the easiest finger appetizers to keep on hand for unexpected company.

Holiday Cheese Truffles are quick easy appetizers to make, and are a festive way to dress up a holiday appetizers table. Create a festive wreath with these make ahead appetizers by arranging different flavoured truffles in a large circle on platter to resemble a holiday wreath. Create a decorative bow out of green onion strips. Use to garnish wreath.

Using the basic appetizer recipe, make Christmas appetizer cheese logs by rolling each half into 6-inch log before coating with nuts.

However you choose to serve these delicious make ahead appetizers, one thing is certain - these quick easy appetizers will become a party appetizers favorite for years to come.

Ingredients:
2 pkg. (250 g each) Philadelphia Brick Cream Cheese, softened
1 pkg. (200 g) Cheddar Shredded Cheese
1 tsp. garlic powder
Dash cayenne pepper
1/4 cup chopped roasted red peppers
2 green onions, chopped
1-2/3 cups chopped pecans
Crackers for serving

Make It!
BEAT first 4 ingredients with mixer until blended. Divide in half. Add roasted peppers to half and onions to other half; mix each until blended.

REFRIGERATE several hours or until chilled.

SHAPE into 24 (1-inch) balls. Roll in nuts. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve with crackers.

Variation:
For variety, coat truffles with one or more of the following: sesame seed, chopped fresh parsley, paprika and/or your favourite shredded cheese.

Recipe courtesy Kraft Canada.

For more great make ahead appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

Make Ahead Appetizers - Egg Rolls

Make ahead appetizers are the ultimate life-savers during the hectic holiday season, and these delicous egg roll appetizers are the perfect make ahead appetizers for any large gathering.

These make ahead appetizers freeze well, just pull out of the freezer and pan fry once thawed. As an added bonus, homemade egg rolls are a much healthier and less expensive choice than store-bought party appetizers.

Switch up your make ahead appetizers - substitute shrimp for the pork for delicious shrimp appetizers, or tofu for the pork for wonderful vegetarian party food appetizers.

Make Ahead Appetizers - Egg Rolls

Ingredients:
Filling:
2 c. shredded cabbage
4 oz. chopped mushrooms (preferably fresh, but canned will work)
1/4 c. shredded carrots
1/2 c. chopped onions
1/4 c. celery, finely chopped
1 lb. pork, cut into very small pieces
1 tsp. peanut oil
1 clove garlic
1/2 tsp salt
1 TBSP soy sauce
1 TBSP cooking sherry
1 beaten egg
1/2 tsp. sugar
1 lb. tiny shrimp
1 pkg. Lumpia or Egg Roll Wrappers

Sweet and Sour Sauce:
2/3 c. sugar
3/4 c. water
1 TBSP white vinegar
1 TBSP catsup
1 dash soy sauce
Peanut oil for frying

Directions:
1) In a large wok or fry pan, cook pork in oil and garlic and drain. Add all vegetables and shrimp and cook for 5 minutes. Add all remaining ingredients and mix well.
2) Put mixture in a strainer and drain all juices and put mixture into a large bowl. Using a soup spoon, take a spoonful of mixture and fill each egg roll wrapper. Roll into a small egg roll.
3) Cook in electric skillet with peanut oil until golden brown and crisp .They freeze wonderfully! Pull out of freezer and pan fry after they thaw.

Sauce:
Put all ingredients in a sauce pan and bring to boil and remove from heat. Place in small dipping bowl.

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy Viva Diva Cafe.

For more great make ahead appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

Party Food Appetizers - Shrimp Appetizers Kebobs

Great parties are remembered not only for the great company but also for the delicous party food appetizers that were served, and these delicous shrimp appetizers kebobs are certain to have your guests raving for months to come.

As far as party food appetizers go, shrimp appetizers are always in constant demand, and delicious, creative party appetizers help set the stage for a hightly successful get together.

This recipe for shrimp appetizers kebobs is not only delicous but also visually appealing, and is just as suitable for party food appetizers as it is for gourmet appetizers for a small and intimate dinner party.

Shrimp Appetizers Kebobs

Ingredients:
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon fresh peeled and grated gingerroot
1 tablespoon lite soy sauce
1 tablespoon dark sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
12 fresh large shrimp, peeled and deveined, leaving tails intact
1 medium yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch squares (or stars with small star shaped cookie cutter)
1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch squares (or stars with small star shaped cookie cutter)
12 fresh small mushrooms
6 green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
Garnish: lime wedges and green onion curls, if desired

Directions:
1) Combine first 6 ingredients in a food-safe plastic bag. Place shrimp in bag with marinade; turn shrimp to coat. Close bag securely and marinate in refrigerator for 1 hour.
2) Set oven to broil. Lightly coat rack in broiler pan with cooking spray. Set aside.
3) Remove shrimp from marinade; reserving marinade. Alternate yellow and red bell pepper, mushrooms, shrimp and green onion pieces on each of twelve 6-inch skewers. Brush kabobs with reserved marinade, and discard remaining marinade.
Arrange the kabobs on the prepared rack in broiler pan.
4) Broil, 4 inches from heat, about 6 minutes, turning once, until shrimp are pink and veggies crisp tender. Arrange on a large serving platter or individual appetizer plates. Garnish with lime wedges and green onion curls, if desired.

Makes 12 appetizer servings. Increase quantities for larger crowds.

Recipe courtesy Viva Diva Cafe.

For more great party food appetizers and shrimp appetizers recipes visit http://www.appetizersunlimited.com/.
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit http://www.amateur-chef.net/

Make Ahead Appetizers - Crispy Coconut Shrimp Appetizers

Make Ahead Appetizers help save the day when trying to juggle a full work and busy family schedule during the hectic entertaining season, and these delicious crispy coconut shrimp appetizers do double duty as valuable time saving make ahead appetizers, and exceptionally easy to make appetizers.

Shrimp appetizers are always the highlight of any party appetizers tray, and these delicious offerings from the Kraft Appetizer recipes collection are certain not to disappoint!

Crispy Coconut Shrimp Appetizers

Ingredients:
1 cup flaked coconut, toasted
1 pouch Extra Crispy Chicken Coating Mix
1/4 tsp. each curry powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
24 uncooked large shrimp (1 lb./450 g), peeled, deveined
1 egg, beaten

Directions:
HEAT oven to 400°F. Combine coconut, coating mix and seasonings in shallow bowl.
DIP shrimp in egg, then roll in coconut mixture until evenly coated. Place on baking sheet.
BAKE 10 to 12 min. or until shrimp are tender.

Make Ahead
These appetizers can be assembled ahead of time. Refrigerate up to 3 hours before baking as directed.

Curry Dip
Mix 1/2 cup Ranch Dressing, 1/4 cup Pure Orange Marmalade, 1 tsp. curry powder and 2 to 3 drops hot pepper sauce until well blended. Refrigerate until ready to serve as a dip with the shrimp.

Enjoy!

Crispy Coconut Shrimp Recipe courtesy Kraft Kitchens.

For more great make ahead appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
For more great recipes, Chef's tips and tools visit www.amateur-chef.net

Gourmet Appetizers - Fig, Onion & Le Migneron Tarts

Tis the season for entertaining, and when choosing the perfect gourmet appetizers to impress your guests, look no further than these Fig, Onion & Le Migneron Tarts gourmet appetizers.

These delicious gourmet appetizers are perfect for the hostess who wants to please, look and taste great, yet are amazingly easy to make appetizers. And better yet, these gourmet appetizers are also perfect make ahead appetizers to save time on party day.

Fig, Onion & Le Migneron Tarts

Ingredients:
1 tblsp (15 ml) grape seed oil (or other type of oil)
2 large onions, thinly sliced
1 oz (25 g) butter
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
2 sheets puff pastry
12 fresh Mission figs
1/2 lb (200 g) Le Migneron de Charlevoix cheese, Swiss cheese or Blue Cheese
Fresh sage leaves

Directions:
1) In a thick-bottomed saucepan, add oil and sliced onions. Slowly cook down over medium heat until soft. Add butter and seasoning and cook until caramelized. Refrigerate. Make Ahead Appetizers note: this step can be done in advance and stored for up to 1 week.
2) Purchase a high-quality puff pastry from a specialty store. Cut out 3-4 inch rounds and score with a fork. Return to refrigerator.
3) Slice figs and cut cheese into 20-30 g pieces. Spread onion mixture on puff pastry bases, arrange figs on top and finish with cheese. At this point the tarts may be baked or put back in fridge and saved for 12 hours.
4) Bake at 400F (200C) until pastry is brown. Finish with sage leaves and cracked pepper.

Note: To save time the caramelized onion can also be replaced with a store-bought one, or a savoury chutney or compote.

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy All You Need Is Cheese Magazine.

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Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms

After the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi appetizers, Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms are one of the most frequently ordered appetizer items on the menu, and with good reason! Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms are a delicious blend of lobster and crab topped with gooey melted cheese. This copycat recipe for Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms does a good job of replicating the restaurant's authentic recipe for Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms.

Try replacing the croutons with Italian breadcrumbs, the lobster tail with crabmeat, and the shredded mozzarella cheese with Monterey Jack for a bit of a different taste in this Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms recipe.

Copycat Recipe for Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms

Ingredients
3/4 cup melted butter, divided
1 pound fresh mushrooms, stems removed
1 cup crushed seasoned croutons
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 (6 ounce) can crabmeat, drained
1 pound lobster tail, cleaned and chopped
3 tablespoons minced garlic
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Directions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Brush a large baking sheet with about 1/4 cup of melted butter. Arrange mushroom caps in a single layer over the baking sheet.
In a medium bowl, mix together the crushed croutons, remaining 1/2 cup butter, shredded cheese, crabmeat, lobster and garlic. Spoon into mushroom caps where the stems used to be.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven, or until lightly browned on the top. Sprinkle with additional cheese if desired, and serve hot!

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy Allrecipes.

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Gourmet Appetizers - Seared Sea Scallops with Whisky-Mushroom Sauce

Scallop recipes are some of the most highly searched on-line appetizer recipes for those looking for gourmet appetizers for a dinner party. Although bacon wrapped scallops are the most popular sea scallop recipe, there are many interesting and unusual scallop recipes to experiment with.

In this delicious sea scallop recipe, courtesy Food & Drink Magazine, the hint of sweet vanilla in a good Canadian rye-whiskey make it a surprisingly good fit with scallops. Canadian rye-whisky adds a character and depth to gourmet appetizers, rich with a creamy thyme mushroom sauce and teamed with juicy scallops.

Seared Sea Scallops with Whisky-Mushroom Sauce

1 tbsp (15 mL) vegetable oil
4 slices bacon, finely diced
2 cups (500 mL) finely chopped cremini mushrooms (about 6 oz/175 g)
1 small clove garlic, minced
12 large scallops
Black pepper
2 tbsp (25 mL) lemon juice
¼ cup (50 mL) Canadian whisky
1 cup (250 mL) low-sodium chicken stock
¼ cup (50 mL) whipping cream
1 tsp (5 mL) finely chopped thyme leaves
Salt
Thyme sprigs

Directions:
1. In a skillet large enough to hold the scallops in 1 layer, heat oil over medium heat. Add bacon; cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes until crisp. With a slotted spoon, remove bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate. Pour fat from skillet into a small bowl; set aside. Set skillet aside but do not wash.
2. In a separate medium skillet, heat 1 tbsp (15 mL) reserved fat over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms; cook, stirring often, for 5 to 7 minutes, until softened and browned. Stir in garlic; cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Remove from the heat; set aside in skillet.
3. Rinse scallops; pat as dry as possible with paper towels. Season with pepper. In the large skillet you used to cook the bacon, heat 2 tbsp (25 mL) reserved fat over medium-high heat. Add scallops in a single layer; cook, without moving them, for 2 minutes. Turn scallops over; drizzle with lemon juice. Cook for a further 1 to 2 minutes until seared and the juices are starting to caramelize on base of skillet, adjusting heat so juices do not burn. Remove scallops to a plate; keep warm.
4. Add whisky to large skillet; boil for about 1 minute, stirring to scrape up browned bits from bottom of skillet, until liquid is syrupy. Add stock; bring to a boil over high heat. Boil for 2 to 3 minutes, until liquid is reduced to about ¾ cup (175 mL). Strain into skillet containing mushrooms; stir in cream and any juices that have accumulated under scallops. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly; stir in thyme. Season to taste with salt and more pepper if needed. Divide sauce among 4 shallow bowls; top each portion with 3 scallops. Sprinkle with bacon; garnish with thyme and serve as an appetizer.

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy Food & Drink Magazine.

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Easiest Finger Appetizers from the Kraft Appetizer Recipes Collection - Mini Florentine Cups

With the holiday entertaining season fast approaching, and everyone looking for the easiest finger appetizers to make, this delicious recipe for Mini Florentine Cups from Kraft Appetizer Recipes will be a valuable time-saving additon to your appetizers collection.

The Mini Florentine Cups are not only one of the easiest finger appetizers to serve, since the 'cup' makes for spill-free nibbling, they are also great make-ahead appetizers to save time on party day, and they are great-tasting appetizers as well!!

Easiest Finger Appetizers - Mini Florentine Cups

Ingredients:
1 pkg. (300g) frozen chopped spinach, cooked, well drained
1/2 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup Philadelphia Light Cream Cheese Spread
1 Tbsp. Parmesan Grated Cheese
1 Tbsp. finely chopped onion
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
24 thin slices deli style turkey breast (about 250g)

Directions:
PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Mix all ingredients except turkey until well blended.
FLATTEN turkey slices; place 1 slice in each of 24 miniature muffin pan cups. Fill each with 1-1/2 tsp. of the spinach mixture.
BAKE 15 min. or until heated through. Serve warm.

Make Ahead Appetizers:
Assemble appetizers several hours in advance; cover and refrigerate. Uncover and bake as directed.

Variations:
Add 1 to 2 Tbsp. chopped water chestnuts to the spinach mixture. (This is not recommended for those watching their carbohydrate intake.)

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy Kraft Foods

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Gourmet Appetizers - Cranberry Almond Tapenade with Pita Crisps

Throughout the world, Tapenade is considered one of the most popular gourmet appetizers, largely due to its French roots. The original Tapenade recipe originated in Provence, France, with it's name, tapenade, derived from the French Provençal word for capers, tapéno. Although a basic tapenade recipe consists of pureed capers, olives, anchovies and olive oil, tapenade is most commonly considered an olive paste.

This creative twist on a basic tapenade recipe creates a unique gourmet appetizers by adding the fruitiness of cranberries to the rich olive tapenade, with toasted almonds providing a crunch. The pita crisps provide a unique bowl shape that cups the filling of these gourmet appetizers for no-spill free nibbling.


Cranberry Almond Tapenade with Pita Crisps

Pita Crisps

1 bag mini pitas (170 g)
2 tbsp (25 mL) olive oil
1 medium garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp (15 mL) finely chopped
fresh parsley


Tapenade

1 cup (250 mL) fresh cranberries
¼ cup (50 mL) granulated sugar
3 tbsp (45 mL) olive oil, divided
2 cups (500 mL) mixture of black Kalamata and green olives, pitted
2 tsp (10 mL) capers, well drained
6 to 8 large fresh basil leaves, shredded
1 tsp (5 mL) finely grated orange zest
¼ cup (50 mL) toasted slivered almonds


1. For crisps, preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. Open each pita around perimeter into 2 rounds. Stir olive oil with garlic. Lightly brush each round; place on a baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly sprinkle parsley overtop.

3. Bake pitas for 15 to 20 minutes or until lightly golden about the edges and crisp. Cool, then store airtight. (Pitas keep well for a week or more; warm for a few minutes in moderate oven to restore crispness, if needed.)

4. For tapenade, toss cranberries with sugar. Heat 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil in a small to medium frying pan over medium heat until very hot. Add cranberries, including all sugar. Cook, shaking the pan often for 8 to 10 minutes or until most of the liquid is gone and cranberries seem glazed. (Stirring breaks up berries.) Turn onto a plate coated with nonstick spray; separate with a fork. Cool.

5. Pulse olives with capers in food processor until finely chopped (or chop with a large chef’s knife). Turn into mixing bowl; stir in remaining 2 tbsp (25 mL) oil, basil and zest.

6. Coarsely chop almonds; set aside half for garnish. Stir remaining almonds and cranberries into tapenade. (Tapenade can be covered and refrigerated for up to a day; bring to room temperature before serving.)

7. To serve, turn tapenade into a wide bowl, preferably earthenware. Scatter remaining almonds overtop. Add a small spoon to heap tapenade onto pita crisps.

Makes 6 to 8 servings

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy Marilyn Bentz-Crowley at Food & Drink Magazine

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Gourmet Appetizers - Vegetable and Blue Samosa Recipe

The samosa, believed to have originated in Central Asia prior to the 10th century, has been served as a popular snack in South Asia for many centuries, and today has the samosa has made a resurgance in the Western world as gourmet appetizers suitable for any occasion.

Today's modern version of the samosa are gourmet appetizers that have evolved through numerous modifications to the traditional samosa recipe, with many health-conscious people now opting to go with a lighter baked samosa recipe instead of the traditional deep frying method.

This more traditional but updated version of the samosa recipe combines spicy vegetables with blue cheese for delicious gourmet appetizers that are also suitable as a filling main course or a delicious snack.

Vegetable and Blue Samosa Recipe

Ingredients:
7 oz (200 g) sweet potato, peeled and diced
1/2 medium red onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1-2 tblsp sunflower oil
1 tsp cumin
Black pepper
2-3 tblsp frozen peas, dethawed
6 1/4 oz (175 g) blue cheese, broken into medium sized pieces
Small bunch coriander
4 sheets filo pastry
Oil for frying
Mango Chutney for serving

Directions:
1) Heat oil in frying pan and gently cook the onions, sweet potato and garlic until soft, stir in cumin and pepper and then drain on paper towel.
2) When cooled combine with peas, crumbled blue cheese and a little chopped coriander. Spread out the filo pastry and cut the sheets in half down their length, and stack the strips on top of each other.
To form the Samosa: Place one eighth of the mixture on the filo strip off centre (to the left) approx. 2.5 cm (1 inch) from end of pastry nearest you. Fold over right hand corner of pastry to cover filling. Fold over wrapped filling to give a triangular shape. Continue folding down the pastry strip, ensuring points are tucked in to avoid filling seepage. Seal the final fold with a little water.
3) Continue with remaining filo and filling until all samosas are formed. Heat oil in a pan and gently fry the samosas a few at a time, turning occassionally until the pastry is puffed and golden. Keep warm while remainder are cooked then serve garnished with fresh coriander and mango chutney.

Enjoy!!

Samosa Recipe courtesy Rosenborg Castello Cheese and Arla Foods Inc.

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Thanksgiving Appetizers - Corn and Chorizo Fritters with Cranberry Chutney

Thanksgiving is a hectic time of the year, heralding the start of the holiday entertaining season, so make it easy for yourself and your family by pre-planning your Thanksgiving appetizers with some easy to make appetizers.

These crisp and golden Corn and Chorizo Fritters with Cranberry Chutney are fun and easy to make Thanksgiving appetizers that will help get even the most holiday-weary entertainer into the festive mood.

If you like your Thanksgiving appetizers on the mild side, choose a mild chorizo, otherwise spice up your appetizers with a hot chorizo.

Corn and Chorizo Fritters with Cranberry Chutney

1/2 cup (125 ml) yellow cornmeal
1 cup (250 ml) all-purpose flour
2 tsp (10 ml) baking powder
1/4 tsp (1 ml) baking soda
1/2 tsp (2 ml) kosher salt
1 1/2 tblsp (22 ml) finely chopped shallot
1 1/2 cups (375 ml) 2% milk
2/3 cup (150 ml) peeled, diced chorizo sausage
Vegetable oil for deep frying

Garnish:
Coarse salt (optional)

Directions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add shallots and milk and, using a whisk, mix into a smooth pancake-like batter.
2. Peel the outer casing off the chorizo sausage using a paring knife, then dice - pieces should be about the size of frozen peas. Add diced chorizo to the batter, and set aside to rest for 10 minutes.
3. Add vegetable oil to a deep saucepan making sure not to fill the pot more than halfway. Place on stovetop over medium heat, and using a thermometer, bring the oil to 325F (160C).
4. Using a tablespoon, measure and drop fritter batter into hot oil, only a few at a time, so as not to crowd the pot and cool the oil. Flip fritters over and cook until golden-brown on all sides, about 3 minutes each. Use a slotted spoon to scoop out fritters and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with coarse salt, if desired. Serve immediately with Cranberry Chutney (recipe below).

Cranberry Chutney
This simple and sweet-tart chutney can be made days ahead.

2/3 cup (150 ml) frozen whole cranberries
1/2 cup (125 ml) water
2 tblsp (25 ml) franulated sugar
1/4 tsp (1 ml) whole fennel seeds

1. Put all ingredients into a saucepan and place on stovetop over medium heat. ring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer. Continue to simmer for about 10 minutes or until cranberries begin to soften and break down. Remove saucepan from heat. Using a potato masher, coarsely mash the cranberry mixture. Return saucepan to the stovetop on low for 5 more minutes or until thickened. Place cranberry chutney in a serving bowl and allow to cool to room temperature. If making ahead, once cooled, refrigerate until ready to use.

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy Food & Drink Magazine.

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Gourmet Appetizers - Spiced Shrimp Appetizers with Cool Citrus-Yogurt Dip

Impressive looking shrimp appetizers are always a party favorite and are the perfect gourmet appetizers for any occasion whether casual or formal.

This fabulous recipe for Spiced Shrimp Appetizers with Cool Citrus-Yogurt Dip is a a low-effort gourmet appetizers dish that is spicy-hot yet sweetly cool. Use peeled and deveined shrimp to same time, and choose tail-on for elegant gripping and dipping of these gourmet appetizers.

Spiced Shrimp with Cool Citrus-Yogurt Dip

3 tblsp (45 ml) 2% yogurt
1 tsp (5 ml) sweet paprika
1 tsp (5 ml) ground coriander seeds
1 tsp (5 ml) coarsely ground black pepper
1/8 tsp (0.5 ml) ground green cardamom seeds
1/8 tsp (0.5 ml) cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp (2 ml) lemon zest
1/2 tsp (2 ml) finely chopper ginger
1/4 tsp (1 ml) finely chopped garlic
1 lb (500 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tail-on, approx 20-25 pieces
Kosher salt

1. Preheat oven to 450F (230C).
2. Combine yogurt, paprika, coriander, black pepper, cardamom, cayenne, lemon zest, ginger and garlic in a large mixing bowl, and stir until well combined.
3. Add shrimp to yogurt mixture, and marinate for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Remove shrimp from refrigerator 10 minutes before cooking. Lay the shrimp out in a single layer on a lightly oiled baking sheet, and season with salt. Bake in preheated oven for 6 to 7 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through. Serve shrimp warm with Cool Citrus Yogurt (recipe follows) for dipping.

Cool Citrus Yogurt Dip

1/2 cup (125 ml) full-fat, Balkan or Mediterranian-style thick yogurt
2 tblsp (25 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
1 tblsp (15 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp (5 ml) orange zest
1/4 tsp (1 ml) ground fennel seeds
1/8 tsp (0.5 ml) chili flakes
Kosher salt

1. Combine yogurt, orange juice, lemon juice, orange zest, ground fennel and chili flakes in a bowl and stir well with a whisk. Season with salt to taste. Transfer to a serving dish and keep chilled until ready to serve.

Enjoy!!

Recipe courtesy Food and Drink Magazine.

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Thanksgiving Appetizers - Mini Shrimp Tacos

These attractive shrimp appetizers are not only easy to make appetizers, they are also a great way to 'dress up' that bag of frozen shrimp in your freezer to create some show-stopping Thanksgiving appetizers for the upcoming holiday season.

When buying the shrimp for your Thanksgiving appetizers, pay attention to the 'count'. A count refers to the number of shrimp per pound, therefore the lower the number on the package, the larger the shrimp, and the higher the count (51 to 60), the smaller the shrimp. For these shrimp appetizers, you will need small shrimp, therefore the higher count number.

Mini Shrimp Tacos

18 frozen, cooked, peeled small shrimp
1 cup (250 ml) packed coleslaw mix (in bag)
2 tblsp (25 ml) mayonnaise
2 tblsp (25 ml) chopped coriander
1/2 to 3/4 tsp (2 to 4 ml) or to taste hot sauce, preferably chipotle
Pinch of salt
1/2 small firm but ripe avocado
1/2 lime
18 mini tortilla scoop chips

1. Thaw shrimp, peel and pat dry. In a medium bowl, stir coleslaw with mayonnaise, coriander, hot pepper sauce to taste, and salt.
2. Just before serving, cut a 1 1/2-inch (4-cm) wedge from avocado then peel. Slice lengthwise, then thinly slice each wedge crosswise. Place in a bowl and gently toss with a squeeze of lime juice. Scoop a spoonful of coleslaw mixture into tortilla scoop chip. Stand an avocado sedge and shrimp inside.

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy of Food & Drink Magazine.

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Make Ahead Appetizers - Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki (pronounced dza-DZEE-kee) is a classic Greek dip traditionally served with toasted small pita breads as an appetizer, then left on the table where the tzatziki sauce is then used as an accompaniment to foods served throughout the meal. Tzatziki sauce is commonly served with souvlaki and gyros.

The three key elements in great tzatziki recipes are a thick Greek yogurt, fresh cucumbers and a good amount of garlic. The thick creamy texture of this tzatziki sauce (courtesy About.com: Greek Food) gives it the versatility to be served in a multitude of ways - eaten alone, as a tzatziki dip appetizer, a tzatziki sauce for meat, and as a condiment.

Tzatziki sauce is great as make-ahead appetizers since the longer the tzatziki sauce is refrigerated before serving, the more intense the garlic taste will become.

Tzatziki Sauce

Ingredients:
16 ounces (2 cups) of thick Greek yogurt
4 to 10 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
1/2 cup of diced or grated cucumber (Kirby or "English")
1 tablespoon of olive oil
2 teaspoons of lemon juice

Preparation:
Prepare all ingredients in advance. Combine oil and lemon juice in a medium mixing bowl. Fold the yogurt in slowly, making sure it mixes completely with the oil. Add the garlic, according to taste, and the cucumber. Stir until evenly distributed. Garnish with a bit of green and serve well chilled.

Yield: about 2 1/2 cups

Add mint or dill:
Add 1-2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill and/or fresh mint for a tasty variation on the basic tzatziki recipe.

Shopping Tip:
Choose Greek full-fat yogurts, available at Greek, Middle Eastern, and specialty food markets. This yogurt has a higher fat content than most yogurts, which gives this tzatziki recipe its deliciously rich, creamy texture.

Preparation Tips:
Kirby or "English" cucumbers work the best in most tzatziki recipes, but if unavailable, peel and seed your cucumber before dicing or grating, then pat it dry with paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

The longer the tzatziki is refrigerated before serving, the more intense the garlic taste will become.

Storage:
Tzatziki sauce will store safely in the refrigerator for several days. If excess liquid accumulates on top, just pour it off.

Enjoy!!

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Roasted Pepper Salami Bites with Chimichurri Sauce

Chimichurri is a green sauce (although there is red version as well) generally used as a marinade for grilled meat. Although chimichurri sauce is often identified with Mexican food, it actually originates from Argentina and Uruguay.

Many stories exist about the origin of the chimichurri sauce recipe. Some believe that chimichurri was first created by an Irishman, Jimmy McCurry, a sympathizer to the Argentine independence cause who marched with General Jasson Ospina in the 19th century. His sauce became popular but his name was difficult for local people to say, so they corrupted his name to 'chimichurri' and so named his sauce. Others similar stories about the origin of chimichurri sauce also involve the corruption of English names that were difficult to pronounce by the natives - Jimmy Curry, an English meat importer, James C. Hurray, a Scotsman, and an English family who was was overheard asking someone to 'give me the curry'.

However the orignal chimichurri sauce recipe came into existance, recipes using chimichurri sauce are a wonderful way to 'spice-up' an otherwise boring or bland dish.

Roasted Pepper Salami Bites with Chimichurri Sauce

Ingredients
For the Salami Bites:
12 slices Genoa salami
1 jarred red bell pepper, roughly chopped
6 ounces queso fresco cheese, crumbled

For the Chimichurri Sauce:
3 scallions, roughly chopped
1/2 cup cilantro leaves, loosely packed
1/4 cup oregano leaves, loosely packed
1 jalapeno, seeds and ribs removed, roughly chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
juice of 1/2 lemon
salt, to taste

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Place salami slices on a cooling rack set on top of a baking sheet and place in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until edges curl up and salami is crispy but not burned. Remove from oven and set aside.
Meanwhile make the Chimichurri sauce:
Combine all ingredients in a food processor and puree until smooth. Set aside.

To assemble Salami Bites, top each salami crisp with a rounded spoonful of chopped peppers and a tablespoon of crumbled queso fresco. Drizzle a tablespoon of Chimichurri sauce over the top of each and serve.

Recipe courtesy Sunny Anderson for Viva Towels.

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Wonton Appetizers - Dim Sims Shrimp Appetizers

When planning the menu for your party food appetizers, always choose the easiest finger appetizers recipes to avoid making your guests juggle utensils, appetizers and cocktails.

These delicious Dim Sims Shrimp Appetizers from our wonton appetizers collection is the perfect choice for finger food appetizers. These wonton appetizers are a departure from the usual appetizers fare, yet are surprisingly easy to make appetizers that compliment any appetizers theme.

Dim Sims Shrimp Appetizers

8 oz (225 g) uncooked medium shrimp
1 lb (450 g) uncooked boneless lean pork
1/4 head small cabbage (about 4 oz or 115 g)
6 green onions
2 eggs, slightly beaten
3 tblsp (45 ml) cornstarch
4 tsp (20 ml) soy sauce
1 tblsp (15 ml) sesame oil
2 tsp (10 ml) oyster sauce
48 wonton wrappers (about 1 lb or 45o g)
3 cups (750 ml) vegetable oil

Directions:
1) Remove shells and back veins from shrimp. Finely chop shrimp, pork, cabbage and onions with sharp knife or food processor. Transfer chopped foods to large bowl. Add eggs, cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil and oyster sauce. Mix well.
2) Place rounded teaspoon of mixture onto center of each wonton wrapper.
3) Gently press wrappers around filling, tucking edges together, but leaving tops flared open, flower style. To avoid excessive drying, work with about 12 wrappers at a time.
4) Heat vegetable oil in wok over high heat until it reaches 375F (190C). Fry 8 to 10 dim sims at a time in hot oil until golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Drain on absorbent paper towel.
Makes 4 dozen.

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy Chinese Cooking Class Cookbook.

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Thanksgiving Appetizers - Sausage & Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms

With the holiday season fast approaching, we have been very busy at Appetizers Unlimited , making and taste-testing new appetizer recipe ideas for Thanksgiving appetizers. We believe we have found another easy to make appetizers hit from the latest Kraft appetizer recipes offerings.

These delicious Sausage & Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms will compliment all of your other Thanksgiving appetizers choices and have your guests raving about your culinary skills, yet they are such quick and easy to make appetizers, requiring only 4 ingredients, that you will spend almost no time in the kitchen preparing them.

Courtesy of Kraft Kitchens:

Sausage & Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms Thanksgiving Appetizers

Ingredients:

24 medium fresh mushrooms (1 lb./450 g), cleaned
1/4 cup KRAFT Zesty Italian Dressing
1/2 cup cooked crumbled Italian sausage
1/2 cup KRAFT Part Skim Mozzarella Shredded Cheese

Directions:
Heat broiler.
Remove and discard stems from mushrooms. Brush mushroom caps with dressing; place on rack of broiler pan. Broil 5 min.
Press sausage into mushroom caps, adding about 1 tsp. sausage to each cap. Sprinkle with cheese.
Broil 3 to 5 min. or until cheese is melted. Serve hot.

Kraft Kitchens Tips:

Substitute:
Substitute Kraft Tex Mex Shredded Cheese for the mozzarella.

How to Crumble Sausage
Cut off the end of the sausage casing, then squeeze the sausage into the skillet. Cook and stir until evenly browned. This will eliminate the need to cut or crumble the sausage after it is cooked.

Enjoy!

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Baked Brie Appetizer - Carmelized Pear on Warm Brie

Cheese is a staple at any party, but this holiday season 'kick up' your party appetizers with a delicious baked brie appetizer!

In an earlier article, we published a recipe for our favorite baked brie appetizer, and in subsequent articles suggested many different topping ideas to personalize your own baked brie appetizer, but now we have found another winning baked brie appetizer recipe from Living Well and the Canadian Living Test Kitchen!!

Caramelized Pear on Warm Brie

1 green onion
2 tsp (10 mL) butter
1 pear, diced
pinch each salt and cinnamon
1/4 cup (50 mL) pear juice or apple juice
3 tbsp (50 mL) chopped pecans
2 tbsp (30 mL) brown sugar
1 tsp (5 mL) chopped fresh thyme
1 tsp (5 mL) cider vinegar
1 round (200 g) Brie cheese

Directions
Thinly slice green onion, keeping white and green parts separate.
In nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat; fry pear, white part of onion, salt and cinnamon for 5 minutes or until pear is softened.
Add pear juice, pecans, brown sugar, thyme and vinegar; boil, stirring often, for 5 minutes or until no liquid remains.
Place Brie in brie baker or on ovenproof serving dish; top with pear mixture. Bake in 350°F (180°C) oven for 10 minutes or until cheese is softened. Let stand for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with green part of onion.

Enjoy!

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Make Ahead Appetizers - Knorr Spinach Dip Recipe

From the Knorr Kitchens comes the ever-popular Knorr Spinach Dip Recipe, a delicious spinach dip ingeniously served up in an edible pumpernickel bread bowl.

This Knorr Spinach Dip Recipe rates as our favorite spinach dip not only because it tastes so darn good, it also looks incredible in it's own pumpernickel bread bowl, and as an added bonus with our hectic schedule, these great make ahead appetizers are also incredibly easy to make appetizers.

What more could you ask?

For great time-saving make ahead appetizers for your next party, make this delicous Knorr Spinach Dip Recipe your top pick!!


Ingredients
1 pkg (300 g) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1 cup (250 ml) mayonnaise
500 ml (2 cups) sour cream
1 pkg Knorr vegetable soup mix
1 can (8 oz/227 g) water chestnuts, drained and chopped
3 green onions, chopped
1 large round pumpernickel bread loaf (optional)

Directions
Squeeze excess moisture from spinach. In bowl, combine spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, soup mix, water chestnuts and green onions. Stir until well combined. Cover and refrigerate about 2 hours to blend flavours. Cut bread from centre of pumpernickel loaf. Fill with spinach dip. Serve with fresh vegetables, pumpernickel bread or chips.

Gourmet Appetizers - Crabapple Recipes

Fruits stuffed with fabulous fillings make elegant gourmet appetizers when you need a show-stopping appetizer recipe, and these Stuffed Crabapples with Cheddar are guaranteed to be a hit!!

These flavor-filled, vitamin-rich, gourmet appetizers morsels from our Crabapple recipes collection are a feast for the palate as well as for the eyes. If you cannot locate crabapples, you can also substitute Chinese apples (found in the specialty produce section of grocery stores or in Chinese grocery stories).

Oh, and did we mention that these tasty bites are also incredibly easy to make appetizers?


Stuffed Crabapples with Cheddar

Ingredients
12 Crabapples or 1 basket Chinese apples
1/2 cup (125 ml) cream cheese, softened
1 tblsp (15 ml) chopped chives
Italian pepper to taste
1/4 lb (125 g) cheddar cheese

Directions:
Delicately sice off the top part of the apples.
Scoop out the flesh, taking care not to damage the inside walls. Set aside.
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, chives and pepper. Fill a pastry bag equipped with a fluted tip with the seasoned cream cheese and carefully fill the apples.
Add a piece of cheddar cheese and put the apple tops back in place.

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy I Can Cook.

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Mexican Food Appetizers - Easy Guacamole Recipe

Whether you are hosting a casual or a formal affair, your party appetizers are meant to get your evening off to a lively start, and there is no better way to achieve that than by serving some traditional Mexican food appetizers.

Our easy guacamole recipe will have your party sizzling before you can even say 'ole'!! Serve your spicy Mexican food appetizers with some cool Mexican-themed cocktails. A great Guacamole dip is perfectly paired with a chilled Margarita.

Our easy guacamole recipe takes only a few minutes to prepare, leaving you plenty of time to prepare a variety of other Mexican food appetizers for your soiree!

Easy Guacamole Recipe

3 ripe avocados
Juice of 2 limes
2 tblsp (30 ml) chopped cilantro
1/2 sweet red pepper, finely diced
2 tblsp (30 ml) olive oil
Salt and Tabasco sauce to taste

Peel the avocados, remove the pits and chop into chunks.
In a food processor, blend the avocado, lime juice, cilantro, chopped sweet pepper, olive oil and seasoning.

Serve Guacamole dip with nachos or tortillas.

Enjoy!

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Gourmet Appetizers - Sesame-Crusted, Pan Seared Scallop Recipe with Asian Vinaigrette

We first saw Bob Blumer on TV creating some unusual type of gourmet appetizers, and since then have been hooked on watching the antics of the Surreal Gourmet - he infuses a passion into his food preparation, yet has fun doing it, and instills the belief that food must look as good as it tastes, so naturally when were were looking at scallop recipes for unique gourmet appetizers for our upcoming annual Thanksgiving bash, we turned to the Surreal Gourmet for inspiration.

This choice for our gourmet appetizers, Seasame-Crusted Pan Seared Scallops Recipe with Asian Vinaigrette courtesy of the Surreal Gourmet and the Food Network, is one of the best scallop recipes we have ever tried! The scallops are tender and juicy, and the visual presentation is truly elegant in it's simplicity!!

These gourmet appetizers are perfect for any occasion, from the dinner party meant to impress the boss, to an intimate dinner for two.

Sesame-Crusted, Pan-Seared Scallops With Asian Vinaigrette

Ingredients:
1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green onion, minced
1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
1 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp canola oil, divided
1 sake, (only if an open bottle is nearby)
12 bite-sized sea scallops
salt and pepper
1/2 cup sesame seeds
12 Chinese soup spoons

Directions:
1) In a small bowl add ginger, garlic, green onion, cilantro, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, soy, 1 tablespoon of canola oil, and sake. Whisk ingredients together.
2) Place one teaspoon of vinaigrette in each soup spoon.
3) Season scallops with salt and pepper.
4) Place sesame seeds on a plate. Pat down top and bottom side of each scallop in sesame seeds.
5) In a sauté pan, over medium-high heat add remaining tablespoon oil. When oil is hot, add scallops, placing them sesame-crusted side down. Sear for approximately 1 minute, or until sesame seeds brown. Turn and sear on other sesame-crusted side for one more minute. Place one scallop in each soup spoon. Serve immediately.
6) * The same serving format can be achieved with only 4 spoons by replenishing each guests spoon for subsequent servings.

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy the Surreal Gourmet and the Food Network.

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Thanksgiving Appetizers - Gougeres (Gruyere Cheese Puffs)

While searching for recipes for Thanksgiving appetizers, we came across this delicious make ahead appetizers recipe from the Food Network for Gougeres (or Gruyere Cheese Puffs), which we tried and absolutely loved, so we just had to share it with you.

Now we truly weren't sure whether to classify these delightful little bites as gourmet appetizers, Thanksgiving appetizers or make ahead appetizers as they fit into any of these categories, but since Thanksgiving is quickly approaching we decided to include them as one of our Thanksgiving appetizers choices. One thing we are certain of is that these delicous Gruyere Cheese Puffs will suit any party occasion, and since they can be frozen up to 1 week ahead, they are the perfect make ahead appetizers to keep on hand for all your entertaining needs this holiday season.

Make lots as they are certain to be the appetizer hit of the season!!

Gougeres (Gruyere Cheese Puffs)

Ingredients:
1 cup cold water (250 mL)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (125 mL)
1/2 tsp salt (2 mL)
1 cup all-purpose flour (250 mL)
4 x to 5 large eggs
1/2 cup coarsely grated Gruyere cheese (375 mL)

Directions:
1) Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2) In a heavy saucepan bring water to a boil with butter and salt over high heat and reduce heat to moderate. Add flour all at once and beat with a wooden spoon until mixture pulls away from side of pan. Cook mixture over medium heat to dry out the paste. As it cooks, push the paste from side to side with the wooden spoon. You will know when the paste is dry when it begins to leave a thin film on the bottom of the saucepan. Transfer mixture to a bowl and with an electric mixer on medium speed mix to release some of the steam. Continue to mix and slowly add eggs 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Batter should be stiff enough to just hold soft peaks and fall softly from a spoon. If batter is too stiff, in a small bowl beat remaining egg lightly and add to batter, a little at a time, beating on high speed, until batter is desired consistency.
3) Stir Gruyère into the mixture.
4) Lightly grease 2 baking sheets or line with parchment paper.
5) Drop level tablespoons of batter onto prepared sheets about 1 inch apart on baking sheets.
6) Bake in upper and lower thirds of oven, switching positions of sheets halfway through baking, 30 minutes, or until puffed, golden and crisp.
7) Gougères make great make ahead appetizers since they keep, chilled in zip-top plastic bags, 2 days or frozen 1 week. Reheat gougères, uncovered, in a preheated 350 degrees F (180 degrees C) oven 10 minutes if chilled or 15 minutes if frozen.
8) Serve warm.

Recipe courtesy of the Food Network.

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Make Ahead Appetizers - Mexican Dip

With Halloween behind us and the holiday entertaining season fast approaching, the staff at Appetizers Unlimited are busy searching for some new great make ahead appetizers to help you save precious time on your hectic party day. Make ahead appetizers are absolutely essential to keep you relaxed and organized during the busy entertaining season.

Our collection of Kraft Appetizer recipes once again provides the ideas for our upcoming series of holiday make ahead appetizers, this time with a twist on some popular and easy Mexican food appetizers.

The first of our make ahead appetizers in our Mexican Food Appetizers series is this sinfully easy Mexican Dip. This appetizer recipe can be put together in the morning, covered and refrigerated until ready to microwave.

Mexican Dip

Ingredients:
1 pkg. (250 g) brick cream cheese
1/4 cup salsa
1/4 cup Tex Mex shredded cheese
2 Tbsp. sliced pitted black olives (optional)
1 Tbsp. chopped cilantro

Directions:
PLACE unwrapped block of cream cheese on microwaveable plate; top with salsa, shredded cheese and olives.
MICROWAVE on high 45 sec. to 1 min. or until Cheddar cheese is melted; sprinkle with cilantro.
SERVE with a selection of crackers.

Jazz It Up
Spoon 1/2 cup refried beans over the cream cheese before topping with the salsa, shredded cheese and olives. Microwave on high 1 min. or until Cheddar cheese is melted. Continue as directed.

Enjoy!

Recipe courtesy Kraft Kitchens.

For more great make ahead appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
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Shrimp Appetizers - Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Many people argue that Red Lobster makes THE absolute best shrimp scampi recipe this side of the Atlantic, and after many shrimp scampi taste tests from various restaurants, we had to agree, and subsequently published a Red Lobster garlic shrimp scampi recipe in an earlier post.

But now many of our time-pressured, kitchen-phobic readers have written to us requesting options for an easy shrimp scampi recipe, so we did our research again and came up with this copycat recipe for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi.

This easy shrimp scampi recipe can be accompanied by pasta if serving as a main meal instead of a shrimp appetizer.

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

1 cup White Wine (preferably a Chablis)
1/2 cup unsalted Butter
3 tablespoon minced Garlic
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
1 pound Shrimp, peeled and deveined
salt & pepper, to taste
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (if desired as garnish)

Combine the butter, wine, garlic and shrimp in a pan. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for about 6 to 7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink. Be careful not to overcook the Shrimp. Add parsley and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Garnish with parmesan cheese if desired. Serve.

Enjoy!

For more great shrimp appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
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Halloween Appetizers - Spicy Shrimp Appetizers

If you think Halloween treats are just sugary-sweet candy for kids, then read on for some fun but sophisticated adult Halloween appetizers for your 'big kid' Halloween parties.

Halloween parties are fun for young and old alike, but with adult parties, your Halloween appetizers selections can make-or-break the party. Our spicy shrimp appetizer is designed to appeal to all age groups. This selection from our tortilla wrap recipes is a sure winner. Baby shrimp are rolled up in tortillas with shrimp cocktail and cream cheese and sliced into bite-sized rounds for the easiest finger appetizers.

Spicy Shrimp Appetizer

Makes 24 rounds
Ingredients
1 cup (250 mL) fresh or frozen cooked baby salad shrimp
1 orange (optional)
1/2 (8 oz) (250-g) block cream cheese, at room temperature
2 tbsp (30 mL) seafood cocktail sauce, preferably spicy
1 green onion, thinly sliced
4 small flour tortillas

1) If using frozen shrimp, place in a sieve and rinse under cold running water until ice crystals melt. Then drain well and pat dry. Finely grate 2 tsp (10 mL) peel from orange. Place cream cheese in a medium-size bowl. Stir until smooth, then stir in orange peel, cocktail sauce and onion.
2) Lay tortillas on counter. Evenly spread each with cheese mixture right to edge. Arrange shrimp along bottom of each tortilla. Roll tightly into logs. Wrap each log in plastic and refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight. Just before serving, slice into thick rounds and arrange on a large platter. Top with fresh basil leaves, if you wish.

Recipe Courtesy Chatelaine Magazine

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Halloween Appetizers - Devilish Deviled Eggs

Here is a devilish twist on the classic deviled eggs recipe, and just in time for your Halloween appetizers offerings for the gruesome party day!!

Deviled eggs are a party favorite at any time of year, but with a little bit of imagination, you can transform any deviled eggs recipe from everyday appetizers to scary appetizers, perfect for all the little and big ghosts and goblins at your party! The 'devilish' part of these deviled eggs is created by forming an evil face with the garnishes.

These spicy deviled eggs are brought to you, courtesy of Martha Stewart Living.

Halloween Appetizers - Devilish Deviled Eggs

Ingredients for Deviled Eggs:
12 large eggs
3 jarred roasted red peppers, finely chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp coarse salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp hot sauce (such as Tabasco) - optional
1 small red bell pepper, cut into triangles, for garnish
2 scallions, dark green parts only, cut into small triangles, for garnish
Fresh chives, cut into 1/2-inch pieces, for garnish

How to make Deviled Eggs:
1. Prepare an ice-water bath; set aside. Put eggs into a medium saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat. Cover; let stand 12 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer eggs to ice-water bath.
2. When eggs are cool, peel and cut in half lengthwise. Carefully remove yolks, keeping whites intact and transferring whites and yolks to separate bowls. Refrigerate whites.
3. Add roasted peppers, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne and hot sauce (if desired) to yolks. Mash with a fork until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until stiff, about 30 minutes.
4. Mound yolk mixture in each egg-white half. Garnish with bell pepper, scallions, and chives to make devilish faces.

Enjoy!!

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Halloween Appetizers - Guacamoldy with Creature Chips

At Appetizers Unlimited, we know that good guacamole recipes are hard to come by, but after taste-testing this wonderful Halloween party appetizers guacamole recipe, we are sure you will agree that as a party or Halloween appetizers recipe, this is definately a keeper!!

And just to 'sweeten' the pot, this great 'Guacamoldy with Creature Chips' appetizer recipe also qualifies as one of our top star-rated make ahead appetizers recipes as a valuable time saver come party day!!

From Martha Stewart Living Ominimedia, we present:

Guacamoldy with Creature Chips

The chips can actually be made up to one day ahead. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Plain or butter-flavored vegetable-oil cooking spray
24 assorted large flour tortillas, such as plain, whole wheat, and sun-dried tomato
Coarse salt
3 pound(s) (about 7) ripe Hass avocados, pitted, peeled, and cut into chunks.
1/4 cup(s) (about 3 limes) freshly squeezed lime juice
1/4 teaspoon(s) freshly ground pepper
1 fresh jalapeño chile, seeded and finely chopped
1/4 cup(s) chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray. Using a few Halloween-inspired cookie cutters, cut shapes from tortillas. Arrange as many shapes as can fit in a single layer on oiled sheet. Coat tortillas with cooking spray and season with salt. Bake until slightly darkened and crisp, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool. Repeat with remaining tortilla shapes, using a clean, cooled baking sheet.
Put avocados, lime juice, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and the pepper, jalapeño, and cilantro in a large bowl. Mash with a fork until chunky. Serve with chips.

For more great Halloween appetizers visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
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Halloween Appetizers - Black Magic Bruschetta Recipe

Halloween is always hectic, and no one has much time to spend in the kitchen preparing appetizers for a party, so this inventive Halloween Appetizers recipe is the perfect party appetizers solution. This creative Black Magic Bruschetta Recipe is a great twist on the traditonal easy Italian bruschetta recipe, and arrives just in time for your last minute Halloween appetizers - guaranteed to be a party-saver favorite!!

Black Magic Bruschetta Recipe, courtesy of Chatelaine Magazine uses black olive tapenade, a store-bought thick olive paste, spread on crunchy toasted bruschetta, which contrasts strikingly with a vibrant orange pepper salsa.

Black Magic Bruschette Recipe

Ingredients:
2 orange peppers, finely chopped
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1/3 cup (75 mL) shredded fresh basil
1 tbsp (15 mL) each white wine vinegar and olive oil
1/2 baguette, sliced into thin rounds
1/2 8-oz (227-g) container tapenade

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400F (200C). Place peppers, onions and basil in a medium bowl. Drizzle with vinegar and oil. Toss to evenly coat. Place baguette rounds on a baking sheet. Toast in oven until edges are golden, 4 minutes per side. If making ahead, cool, then store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days. To serve, spread rounds with tapenade, then spoon salsa overtop.

Enjoy!

For more great Halloween Appetizers Recipes visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
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Halloween Appetizers - Spooky Bites

Courtesy of the Canadian Living Test Kitchen comes this Halloween party appetizers recipe for Spooky Bites - these terrifying tidbits are the perfect formula for some frighteningly good mouthfuls of Halloween appetizers for your Halloween cocktail party.

But before you serve your spooky appetizers, set the scene for an eerie Halloween party with some creative staging - arrange flowers and groupings of colorful liquids (such as Kool-Aid) in test tubes. Write scientific formulas in chalk on a chalkboard. Replace regular lightbulbs with red or green colored ones, or use black lights for an eerie setting. Tape colored cellophane gel to a lamp and direct the light towards a spooky object to highlight.

To serve your spooky appetizers, use metal medical trays, thin tongs and long tweezers for serving. Place food in specimen jars instead of bowls and label with their Latin names, for example: Caseoli (cheese, for bocconcini balls), luglandis (walnuts), Oleae (olives), Betae et ovi (beets and eggs).

Dressing the part of a mad scientist is the best part - Wear a tattered lab coat, chunky glasses with lenses removed (or goggles), a wild wig (think Albert Einstein) and a pocker protector filled with as many pens, pencils and gadgets as can be crammed in.

Now for the crowning glory of the night, your spooky Halloween Appetizers:

Ribs with Blackberry Sauce

3 lb (1.5 kg) pork back ribs, centre cut removed

Spice Rub:
2 tbsp (25 mL)chili powder
1 tbsp (15 mL) dry mustard
3 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 tsp (4 mL) each salt and cinnamon

Sauce:
1/2 cup (125 mL) blackberry jam
1/2 cup (50 mL) ketchup
1 tbsp (15 mL) balsamic vinegar
2 tsp (10 mL) minced gingerroot
1/4 tsp (1 mL) pepper

Preparation:
Pour enough water into shallow roasting pan to come scant 1/2 inch (1 cm) up side. Add ribs, meaty side up. Cover and cook in 325°F (160°C) oven for 80 to 90 minutes or until meat is tender. Drain; transfer ribs to cutting board. Let stand for 10 minutes. Cut into 1-rib portions.

Spice Rub: In large glass baking dish, combine chili powder, mustard, garlic, salt and cinnamon; rub all over ribs. Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours. (Make-ahead: Refrigerate for up to 24 hours.)

Sauce: In small saucepan, combine blackberry jam, ketchup, vinegar, ginger and pepper; bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring often, for 5 minutes. Strain through fine sieve into bowl, pressing on solids. Set aside. (Make-ahead: Let cool; refrigerate in airtight container for up to 1 week.)Place ribs, meaty side down, on rack on foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Broil for 5 minutes. Brush ribs with half of the sauce; broil until bubbling, about 2 minutes. Turn and brush with remaining sauce; broil until sauce forms bubbling glaze, about 2 minutes.

Enjoy!

For more great Halloween Appetizers Recipes visit www.appetizersunlimited.com
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Make Ahead Appetizers - Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Cheese Appetizers

Make ahead appetizers are absolute life savers for busy party planners - great tasting and easy party appetizers that can be prepared ahead of time and cooked or assembled at the last minute are essential for a well organized party.


This delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Appetizers recipe scores high marks on all points - these great tasting make ahead appetizers have a unique flavor that will have your guests scrambling for more, and are easy to prepare in advance to free up valuable time on party day.


Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Cheese Appetizers


Ingredients
Crust:
1 ¼ (300 ml) cups all purpose flour
6 tbsp (90 ml) chilled butter, cut into pieces
1 egg

Filling
½ cup (125 ml) drained, oil packed sun-dried tomatoes, reserving 1 tbsp (15 mL) oil
4 cloves garlic
½ tsp (2 ml) dried oregano
3 eggs
1 pkg (250 g) Canadian cream cheese, regular or light, cut into pieces
1 cup (250 ml) sour cream, regular or light
½ cup (125 ml) finely chopped green onions
Salt and pepper, to taste


Directions:
To make crust: In a food processor container, blend flour with butter using on/off pulse until mixture becomes granular. Add egg and blend just until dough begins to form a ball. Press dough onto bottom of a 13 x 9-inch (33 x 23 cm) baking pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are golden.

To make filling: Meanwhile, in a food processor container, finely chop sun-dried tomatoes with reserved oil, garlic and oregano. Stir in eggs. Add cream cheese and mix until smooth. Transfer mixture into a bowl; stir in sour cream and green onions until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

To assemble: Pour filling over crust and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool to room temperature. Cut into small squares to serve. Makes 24 appetizers.

Tip A day or two before the party, you can prepare and refrigerate the crust and the filling separately. The day of the party, you can bake the crust then pour the filling and bake.


Enjoy!!


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