Tag Archives: appetizer

Chicken Meatballs

Dinner Ideas September 16, 2026 Leave a comment
Pot of vegetable stew with browned meatballs and herbs

Juicy, tender, and full of fresh herbs, chicken meatballs are an easy weeknight staple. Their mild, savory flavor works with tomato sauce, tzatziki, and many other sauces. Compared with beef or pork meatballs, chicken meatballs are lighter and absorb herbs, spices, and sauces well. Grated onion, breadcrumbs, cheese, or olive oil help keep them tender. Serve them over pasta with marinara and Parmesan, in pita with tzatziki and vegetables, over rice with greens, or in vegetable soup. High in protein and easy to prepare, these family-friendly meatballs are ideal for meal prep. Make a batch for quick lunches and dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients

  • 1 16-ounce package of Ground Chicken
  • ½ cup Panko Breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan and Romano cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon thyme
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Process

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the egg with a tablespoon of water; add the breadcrumbs. Mix until the breadcrumbs become moistened.
  4. Combine cheese, garlic cloves, parsley, salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, and olive oil with the breadcrumb mixture until evenly blended.
  5. Combine ground chicken gently with a fork or clean hand; mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent the chicken from becoming tough.
  6. Form 1” balls with a cookie scoop and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake meatballs for 20 minutes in a preheated oven, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F using an instant-read thermometer.

09/16/2026

Asparagus Spears wrapped in Prosciutto

Dinner Ideas September 9, 2026 Leave a comment
Appetizer spread with prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, pastries, cheese, nuts, and sauces
Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus

Playful asparagus spears soak up a bright, tangy marinade before snuggling into salty prosciutto, creating a delicious contrast of crisp vegetables, savory richness, and lively flavor in every irresistible bite. Each spear is satisfying enough for a party platter yet simple enough for an easy weeknight appetizer. Serve as an elegant starter, or arrange them alongside a fresh salad, roasted chicken, or grilled fish for a flavorful side dish that feels both effortless and special.

Ingredients

  • 1-pound fresh asparagus
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ cup Seasoned Rice Vinegar
  • 2 cloves of fresh grated or pressed garlic
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or Korean Red Pepper powder
  • 1 3-oz package of prosciutto

Process

  1. Clean the asparagus and trim off the tough ends.
  2. Place the asparagus in a gallon-size zip-lock bag.
  3. Add the olive oil, seasoned rice vinegar, garlic, and red pepper. Do not add the prosciutto yet.
  4. Seal the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  5. When ready to serve, slice the prosciutto into thin strips.
  6. Remove the asparagus from the marinade. Do not rinse.
  7. Wrap each spear with a thin strip of prosciutto, starting at the base and winding toward the tip.
  8. Arrange on a platter and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Caprese Salad

Salads, Side August 18, 2026 Leave a comment
Cut basil leaves into thin ribbons

Caprese salad celebrates simplicity with ingredients at their peak. Arrange juicy tomatoes and fresh mozzarella on a platter, then scatter fragrant fresh basil ribbons across the top. Finish with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, aged balsamic, flaky sea salt, and freshly cracked pepper. For a gourmet touch, add toasted pine nuts or a delicate basil oil. Serve immediately with crusty artisan bread, allowing the creamy cheese, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic basil to shine in every elegant bite.

Ingredients

  • Fresh spinach or arugula
  • 4 medium-sized juicy, ripe tomatoes, sliced in ¼ inch slices
  • 6 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 1 bunch of fresh basil, rinsed and pulled apart into individual leaves

Process

Remove the basil leaves from the stems. To slice basil into thin ribbons, a technique known as chiffonade, begin by selecting fresh, clean basil leaves.

  • Stack several basil leaves on top of one another, placing the largest leaf on the bottom.
  • Roll the stack tightly from one side to the other, forming a small cylinder.
  • Hold the roll firmly with one hand, keeping your fingers curled safely away from the knife.
  • Using a sharp chef’s knife, make thin, even slices across the rolled basil. Aim for ribbons approximately 2 to 3 millimeters wide.
  • Separate the slices gently with your fingers and scatter the basil ribbons over the finished dish.
  1. Line a plate or platter with washed spinach leaves, stems removed.
  2. Arrange the tomato slices on top of the spinach.
  3. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of kosher or sea salt.
  4. Layer half of the basil ribbons on top of the tomatoes.
  5. Layer the mozzarella cheese on top of the basil.
  6. Garnish with remaining basil ribbons.
  7. Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette evenly over the layered ingredients for clearer, more consistent coverage.
  8. Serve at room temperature.

Balsamic Vinegarette

  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  • 2 Tablespoons of good balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves of garlic, sliced into slivers or grated
  • ½ teaspoon of cracked pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher or Sea salt, divided

In a small bowl with a lid, mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, ½ teaspoon cracked pepper, ½ teaspoon salt, and garlic. Let the mixture sit for at least 15 minutes to blend the flavors.

Pistachio Marshmallow Ambrosia

Dinner Ideas August 13, 2026 Leave a comment
Creamy green pistachio salad with mini marshmallows in a bowl on a wooden table
A bowl of creamy pistachio salad

Think salads must always be leafy? Think again! Retro marshmallow salads bring a playful twist, swapping greens for pudding mix and fluffy marshmallows. Picture a pistachio salad bursting with pineapple chunks, crunchy pistachios, and cuddly mini marshmallows!  Perfect as a quirky side or a cheeky dessert, depending on your table. These delightful fluff salads and other vintage potluck gems are staples in the South and Midwest, but they’re fun anywhere, anytime. The idea of a sweet, creamy salad might raise an eyebrow, but one spoonful turns skeptics into fans. It’s a rare chance to enjoy marshmallows before the final course, so why not indulge? Serve it chilled, grab a fork, and join the retro revival—this luscious, nostalgic treat is here to brighten your next gathering.

Ingredients

  • 1 carton (16 ounces) Cool Whip whipped topping
  • 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant pistachio pudding mix
  • 6 to 7 drops green food coloring, optional
  • 3 cups miniature marshmallows
  • 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple tidbits (or crushed pineapple), undrained
  • 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
  • Additional whipped topping, optional

Process

  1. In a large bowl, combine whipped topping, pudding mix, and, if desired, food coloring.
  2. Fold in the marshmallows and pineapple.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  4. Just before serving, top with additional whipped topping if desired, and sprinkle with nuts.

Onion Jam

Dinner Ideas August 2, 2026 Leave a comment
Jar of homemade red onion jam with a label, toast with jam, fresh thyme, and garlic on wooden surface
A jar of homemade sweet onion jam

Onion Jam is a slow-cooked preserve that transforms humble onions into a rich, glossy condiment with remarkable depth. As the onions gently soften and caramelize, their natural sweetness intensifies, balanced by savory notes and a subtle touch of acidity. The result is tender, spreadable, and complex, with layers of buttery richness, mellow allium flavor, and a lingering finish on the palate. Spoon it onto a cheeseboard, tuck it into a grilled cheese sandwich, or serve it alongside roasted meats to add warmth and contrast. Sweet without being cloying and savory without becoming heavy, onion jam brings a polished, versatile character to both simple snacks and elaborate dishes.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 large, sweet onions, cut into 1/4-inch dice
  • 2 parsley sprigs
  • 2 Fresh Thyme sprigs
  • 1 fresh rosemary sprig
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3/4 cup white balsamic vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon of Kosher salt

Process

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the onions and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 15 minutes.
  2. Tie the parsley, thyme, and rosemary with kitchen twine. Add the herb bundle to the diced onions. Cook over low heat, stirring a few times, until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle the sugar over the onions and cook, without stirring, until the sugar melts, for about 5 minutes.
  4. Turn the heat to high and cook without stirring for about 6 minutes, until the caramel turns amber brown. Then reduce the heat to low.
  5. Stir in the white balsamic vinegar. Simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens and the vinegar is absorbed. Remove the herb bundle. Season with salt and let the jam cool until warm.

Note: The caramelized onion jam can be refrigerated for up to five days. Serve warm or at room temperature.

08/01/2026

Pinwheel Appetizers

Appetizers July 18, 2026 Leave a comment
Plate of tortilla pinwheel wraps filled with vegetables and salmon
A platter of colorful vegetable and salmon pinwheel wraps ready to serve

Pinwheel appetizers turn any gathering into a party-ready spread with minimal fuss. These colorful rollups are playful, customizable, and perfect for mixing flavors — try olives, chopped scallions, chili peppers, ham, smoked salmon, creamy cheese, or sautéed spinach. Cream cheese is the binder for the fillings and adds a smooth, tangy base. For holiday flair, introduce pops of red and green with roasted peppers or herbs. Aim for contrast: pair creamy cheese with salty meats, crisp vegetables, or bright herbs to create satisfying bites. They’re easy to adapt for dietary preferences, too — swap spreads or fillings to suit vegetarian, gluten-free, or low-carb needs. With thoughtful ingredient choices and an eye for color, pinwheels become both tasty and visually striking, making them an upbeat, reliable option for entertaining with style.

Serves: About 35 roll-ups

Basic Pinwheel

Ingredients

  • 2 packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 package ranch dressing mix
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 5 flour tortillas; use spinach and tomato for a festive touch!
  • 1/2 cup finely diced green bell peppers
  • 1/2 cup finely diced red bell peppers
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Process

  1. Mix the cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, and the black pepper together thoroughly.
  2. Spread the mixture on each tortilla. Sprinkle diced bell peppers and chopped green onions on top.
  3. Wrap the roll tightly in plastic and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
  4. Slice into small 1-1/2 to 2″ wheels and serve.

Note: Add fillings like deli ham, smoked salmon, sliced olives, or fresh herbs to customize the flavor. You can also use chopped scallions, chili peppers, soft cheese, or sautéed spinach.

Roasted Tomato and Avocado Crostini

Dinner Ideas July 9, 2026 Leave a comment
Toasts with mashed avocado, mozzarella slices, roasted cherry tomatoes, basil, and balsamic drizzle on a wooden board
Delicious avocado toast topped with fresh mozzarella, roasted cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves

Imagine tiny flavor explosions on toast: ripe avocado, mashed with a spritz of lemon or lime, a slick of olive oil, and a pinch of salt becomes a silky, zesty base that plays off bright roasted tomatoes. Thin slices of fresh mozzarella tuck in atop the warm crostini, softening and stretching slightly from the toast’s heat to add a gentle milky hug. To assemble, smear the avocado over each piece of toast, plop on a spoonful of juicy roasted tomatoes, and nestle a few mozzarella slices on top. Scatter chopped basil like confetti and finish with a playful drizzle of balsamic reduction or extra-virgin olive oil. The bite delivers delightful contrasts: crackly bread, creamy avocado, tangy-sweet tomato, and pillowy mozzarella. These crostini are perfect for kicking off a relaxed gathering, stealing the show at a dinner party, or bringing cheerful flair to any antipasti spread. All recipes for Kitchen Moxy can be found at www.kitchenmoxy.com

Ingredients

  • 8 oven-roasted tomato slices
  • 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of butter
  • 8 slices (diagonally sliced) of a baguette
  • 1 clove of garlic, sliced in half; press or grate one half
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 8 thin slices
  • 1 large avocado, halved, pitted, and mashed
  • 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh basil
  • 1 pinch flaked sea salt

Process

  1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add bread slices to the skillet, in batches if necessary; cook until crisp and golden in places, 2 to 3 minutes per side.
  2. Transfer crostini to a work surface; rub garlic half on each slice. Sprinkle with a pinch of dried oregano.
  3. Mash avocado with grated garlic, a teaspoon of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Spread one scoop on top of each crostini.
  4. Top each crostini with mozzarella, a roasted tomato slice, and a basil leaf. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with flaky salt.

Oven-Roasted Tomatoes

Oven-Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

Dinner Ideas July 7, 2026 Leave a comment
Four baked tomato halves topped with breadcrumbs and herbs on a wooden board
Delicious baked tomatoes topped with a crunchy herb and breadcrumb mixture

Bright, bubbly Parmesan tomatoes turn ordinary tomatoes into a crunchy, cheesy celebration. Thick tomato slices get a shower of grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of herbs, and a breadcrumb blanket, then roast until golden and irresistible. Each bite balances juicy sweetness with a savory, crunchy top that begs for seconds. Serve these playful rounds alongside grilled meats, toss them with pasta, or stack them for a veggie-forward snack. They’re speedy to make—about 10–20 minutes—perfect for a last-minute upgrade that feels special without fuss. All Kitchen Moxy recipes can be found at www.kitchenmoxy.com

Ingredients

  • 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch slices
  • 4 tablespoons mayonnaise, or sour cream
  • ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil
  • ½ cup of fresh, shredded mozzarella cheese

Process

  1. Gather all ingredients. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange tomato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and Dijon mustard, then add oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
  4. Layer each tomato slice with a small amount of mayonnaise mixture. Sprinkle with mozzarella and then top with parsley and basil.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown. Serve immediately.

Crab “Bombs”: The Explosive Addition to Your Picnic or Dinner Party

Dinner Ideas June 7, 2026 Leave a comment
Golden crab cakes garnished with herbs on a ceramic platter with creamy dip and lemon wedges
A platter of golden crab bombs served with a creamy herb dip and lemon wedges

Serve crab “bombs” for a picnic or dinner party and watch smiles multiply. These crispy, golden orbs hide a creamy, savory crab center that pops with flavor in every bite. Easy to transport and even easier to eat, they pair perfectly with chilled white wine, zesty dipping sauces, or a bright citrus slaw. Whether spread on a blanket by the ocean or arranged on a platter for guests, crab “bombs” make any gathering feel festive and effortless.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound crab meat
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 egg, beaten

Process

If baking, preheat oven to 375°F.

If frying, heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat.

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine crab meat, softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt & pepper; add additional breadcrumbs if the mixture is still wet.
  2. Take about 2 tablespoons of the crab mixture and roll it into a ball shape. Repeat until all the mixture is formed into balls.
  3. Place the crab bombs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
  4. If Frying: carefully add the crab bombs to the hot oil, fry them in batches until golden and crispy, about 4 – 5 minutes per side.
  5. Drain excess oil if frying; remove the crab bombs and place on a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.
  6. Serve hot

Dip #1 Creamy Dill Dip

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup mayonnaise or plain Greek Yogurt
  • 4 green onions, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Process

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, scallions, parsley, dill, salt and pepper until blended. Serve at room temperature.

Dip #2 Sweet Chili Sauce

Ingredients

  • ½ cup unseasoned rice vinegar 
  • ¾ cup of water
  • 2/3 cup white sugar 
  • 5 garlic cloves finely minced, or pressed
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or Fish sauce
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 2- ½ tablespoons of sambal oelek (please see recipe notes)
  • 4 teaspoons of cornstarch 
  • 2 tbsp water

Process

  1. Add the vinegar, water, sugar, garlic cloves, soy sauce, and cayenne pepper  in  a non-stick pan.
  2. Heat over medium heat while stirring to dissolve the sugar. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes. 
  3. Add the sambal oelek (or a substitute listed below) and mix through. Let it cook for a few minutes until it’s slightly thickened (2- 5 minutes).
  4. Mix the cornstarch and water into a smooth slurry and add this to the sauce as well.
  5. Stir frequently (to prevent the sauce from burning at the bottom), simmer the sauce for 2 – 5 minutes or until it reaches the desired thickness. Remember, the sauce thickens as it cools. If it thickens too much, add a little extra water to thin it out.
  6. Cool to room temperature and store in the fridge.

Notes: Substitutions for Sambal Oelek 

  1. Chili Garlic Sauce: This sauce has a similar base of chiles, vinegar, and salt, but includes garlic and sugar, giving it a slightly different flavor. It can be used in equal amounts as a substitute in most recipes 
  2. Sriracha: Another popular option, sriracha offers a vibrant red color and a similar heat level. However, it is a sauce rather than a paste, so it may alter the texture of your dish slightly. You can use it in a 1:1 ratio, but consider adding a bit of vinegar to mimic sambal oelek’s tanginess 
  3. Gochujang: This Korean chili paste is fermented and has a richer flavor profile. It can be used in smaller amounts due to its strong taste, and it works well in marinades and stir-fries 
  4. Harissa: A North African chili paste that adds a complex flavor. It can be used as a substitute, but be mindful of its distinct spices that may change the overall taste of your dish 
  5. Homemade Sambal Oelek: If you have fresh red chilies, salt, and vinegar, you can easily make your own sambal oelek. Blend these ingredients to your desired consistency, adjusting the heat level by choosing milder or hotter chilies 
  6. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For a quick and easy option, crushed red pepper flakes can add heat to your dishes, though they lack the vinegar and salt balance of sambal oelek. Use them to taste 

Garlic and Herb Steamed Clams

Dinner Ideas June 4, 2026 Leave a comment
Steaming clams in garlic butter sauce garnished with herbs, served with toasted bread and a glass of white wine
A bowl of steaming clams served in a garlic herb butter sauce with toasted bread on the side

Steam clams and mussels for friends and watch the party come alive! These briny treasures cook fast in a fizzy splash of dry white wine, butter, garlic, and fresh herbs, filling the kitchen with irresistible aromas. When the shells pop open, ladle that fragrant broth over pasta or dunk crusty bread to sop up every savory drop. The dry wine brightens flavors as the alcohol cooks away, leaving concentrated, mouthwatering depth. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that looks impressive without effort and turns any summer gathering into a warm, festive feast.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup of butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • 2 cups of dry white wine (such as a Chardonnay)
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano or 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped oregano
  • ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 36 clams in shell, scrubbed

Process

  1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook garlic in butter briefly. Stir in wine, and season with oregano, parsley, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Place clams in the wine mixture. Cover, and steam until all the clams have opened; discard any that do not open. Serve in soup bowls and ladle broth generously over them.