Appetizer

Creamy Gorgonzola and Pear Pizza

Fall is right around the corner and I’m starting to brainstorm all the fun ways I can use fall produce. Locally-grown pears become available in late August in west Michigan so I was excited to scoop some up earlier this week. This pizza has a layer of blended cottage cheese which provides creaminess and a Creamy Gorgonzola and Pear Pizza

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

We recently took a trip to the Baja region of Mexico and our first night at the resort we ordered a seafood cocktail not really knowing what to expect. What came to the table was a bowl of tangy, spicy marinated seafood which they served with saltine crackers and fresh tortilla chips. I was immediately Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Smoked Beer Cheese Dip

This is such a simple appetizer to prepare and it packs huge flavor! I like to make this for parties because it’s always a hit. If you’re not a huge fan of smoked cheeses, simply use all white cheddar. Serve this with pretzels, crackers, crostini or veggies. 2. Add cream cheese, Worcestershire, Dijon and seasonings Smoked Beer Cheese Dip

Air Fryer Cornbread Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are one of my favorite appetizers because they are always a crowd pleaser and they pack so much flavor! In this version, the combination of sweet cornbread crumbs with nutty sharp cheddar cheeses provides the perfect flavor balance. For an extra kick, serve these garnished with a dash of hot sauce on top. Air Fryer Cornbread Stuffed Mushrooms

Gochugaru Shrimp

I recently tried this spice for the first time and I am hooked! Gochugaru is a coarsely ground Korean chili powder (similar to crushed red pepper flakes in texture). It’s traditionally made from sun-dried peppers without the seeds, giving it a slightly sweet flavor. This buttery, garlicky and spicy sauce is perfect with shrimp! Serve Gochugaru Shrimp

Veggie Taco Pizza

Pizza and tacos are two of my absolute favorite foods (I’m sure most of you can agree). This pizza is the best of both worlds! I decided to go the vegetarian route with this one – highlighting sweet corn and tomatoes which are at their peak of freshness right now. If you can’t find queso Veggie Taco Pizza

Fresh Garden Salsa

Fresh garden tomatoes are wonderful this time of year – so sweet and juicy! One of my coworkers gave me some tomato and pepper plants a few months back and now they are finally ready to enjoy. Feel free to mix up the veggies based on what you have growing in your garden! Use this Fresh Garden Salsa

Pineapple Ginger Meatballs

Meatballs are one of my favorite meal prep items because they are super flavorful and reheat well. These meatballs are the perfect combo of sweet, sour and spicy. I recommend serving this over rice or rice noodles if you’re having it as a meal, but you could also serve this as a fun appetizer on Pineapple Ginger Meatballs