Appetizer

Chicken Meatballs with Avocado Feta Dip

Tis the season for entertaining and I am always thinking of new and exciting appetizers to serve. Many of the appetizers served around the holidays can be pretty calorie-laden, so I figured I would share a recipe that is not only delicious, but also good for you. These also make a great make-ahead lunch served Chicken Meatballs with Avocado Feta Dip

Beef Empanadas with Avocado Lime Crema

I love any appetizer that is bite-sized because it’s great for serving guests without being messy. These beef empanadas pack so much flavor thanks to all the spices in the beef mixture. And the avocado dipping sauce is one of my favorites – it’s also really good on tacos, grilled fish and crab cakes. Serve Beef Empanadas with Avocado Lime Crema

Sausage and Cherry Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are one of my favorite appetizers to make because they’re super flavorful and it’s pretty simple to whip up a big batch of them. This version combines hot Italian sausage with a touch of cream cheese for creaminess and dried cherries for a pop of sweetness in every bite. Pair these with a Sausage and Cherry Stuffed Mushrooms

Green Apple Guacamole

There are few people I have met that don’t love guacamole. It’s a common menu item at dinner parties I cook for and I love playing around with the different add-ins (for example, mango and pineapple). Adding apple provides a great crunch and tart sweetness, which balances nicely with the spicy jalapeno. Serve this as Green Apple Guacamole

Pulled Pork Sweet Potato Nachos

Nachos are one of my favorite comfort foods. Traditionally I use blue corn or regular corn chips as the base, but to reduce the sodium and up the nutritional value, I decided to use sweet potatoes. The result is the perfect blend of sweet and salty. If you want to add a good kick, add Pulled Pork Sweet Potato Nachos