Need a super easy appetizer for your next holiday gathering? You will definitely want to try these bite-sized crispy phyllo cups full of melty brie cheese topped with sweet dark cherries. Maple syrup gives a depth of flavor and a new twist to the flavor. No maple syrup and don't want to buy a bottle for just one recipe? Substitute honey. Honey is a little sweeter than maple syrup, but in the quantity we are using, that doesn't matter. Substitute with the same amount of honey. Brown sugar is another possible substitution. Brown sugar is a little less sweet than maple syrup so you will need to increase the amount to 1/4 cup OR 4 tablespoons. Just sprinkle over the top of each cup. Corn syrup on the shelf? Yes, that works but it only makes the cherries sweeter without adding ... [Read More]
Appetizers
Bacon and Three Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
Bacon and Three Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers are a quick and easy appetizer for any occasion. A plate full of this colorful deliciousness turns the occasion into instant party! The hardest part of this easy dish is waiting five minutes for the cheese to turn golden underneath the broiler. Party in less than fifteen minutes!! To make things go even faster, use precooked bacon instead of cooking your own. I always have a package of bacon in the freezer, but sometimes we need something faster than the bacon would thaw and then cook. Precooked bacon to the rescue. You can cut the precooked and packaged bacon slices into small bits. OR you can open a package of precooked bacon crumbles. I'm talking the real deal bacon -- no imitation meat or bacon flavor or anything like that. One ... [Read More]
Mini Tacos
I made Mini Tacos for a family reunion get together where I served several mini foods. The Mini Tacos disappeared quickly, and have reappeared at all sorts of events since. Kids especially love them. . . you gonna make those baby tacos again? They are colorful – like a fiesta should be – and have a little zing. The size is perfect, for little or big appetites, because they can repeat as many times as needed to take care of hunger pangs. They make great appetizers, but are filling enough for a light meal. Make the filling and keep it warm in a small crockpot and let guests fix their own taco, adding whatever toppings they choose. OR -- If serving immediately, make the colorful finished tacos and serve from a warmed baking dish. This makes a great addition to an adult appetizer ... [Read More]
Hot Roast Beef Party Sandwiches
Hot Roast Beef Party Sandwiches was one of the main dishes I served at two ladies luncheons recently. A hot sandwich was a nice counterpoint for the cold salads and desserts that made up the rest of the menu. They were so easy to make and, most importantly, delicious! The size was just right for guests who were sampling everyone’s contribution. The guys are always happy to dispatch of any leftovers with the “suggestion” I might need to make some of these wonders just for them. Who knows? Some wintry Sunday evening, I just might make these for family supper! I made them the morning of the event, but they could be prepared up to a month ahead of time, assembled and wrapped for baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. I used a package of 12 rolls that had been ... [Read More]
