Appetizers
The first bite sets the stage for the evening. I adore savoury little dishes, just not the fussy ones that keep me in the kitchen all afternoon. I’ll cut corners anywhere except flavour. The prep is done ahead, so when family or friends arrive, the appetizers are ready, and I’m at the table with them.
homemade fried potato chips
Homemade chips are super easy to make and only require two ingredients. The trick is to ensure the sliced potatoes have their starch removed (rinsing in water) and dried.
zucchini scarpaccia
Scarpaccia (bad shoe in Italian) is a zucchini tart from Tuscany. It’s a favourite food during carnival celebrations and is believed to have originated from retired sailors who used zucchini from their gardens.
portobello parmesan
An easy mid-week meal, portobello parmesan served atop a dressed salad will satisfy any hungry…
Bourbon Candied Pecans
Toasted pecans candied in a bourbon glaze, sweet, boozy, and endlessly snackable.
baked boursin cheese
Boursin cheese rolled in Panko breadcrumbs gives that extra crunchy texture and helps hold its shape while in the oven.
Warm Marinated Olives
Olives warmed gently in oil with garlic, fennel seeds, chili flakes, and lemon zest, softened until plump, juicy, and ready for good bread alongside.
bocconcini with pickled cherries & mint
Pickled cherries have a unique flavour profile of sweet and tangy. And, they can be used in both savoury and sweet dishes.
Pistachio Feta Dip
A nutty, herby feta dip finished with fresh mint, best scooped up with warm pita.
spicy greek feta dip (tirokafteri)
This whipped feta dip can be as hot and spicy as your taste buds can handle, or tone it down and omit the chili peppers.
steamed chicken dumplings
Steamed dumplings are silky and tender. The filling can be whatever you fancy (beef, pork, fish, veggies). Bypass the steaming and use the dumplings in a soup.
fried brie with honey
At times I am a lazy cook and if there’s a shortcut, I’ll happily take it. This appetizer is a cinch to make and takes little time to whip up.