WHIPPED FETA WITH SPICED CRACKLIN’ CHICKPEAS

WHIPPED FETA WITH SPICED CRACKLIN’ CHICKPEAS

Remember the song from the band Devo in the ’80s? Whip it…Whip it Good! Whipped Feta with Spiced Cracklin’ Chickpeas can be whipped up in a jiff and the taste is BIG, SMOOTH, and ADDICTIVE. So Whip it, Whip it Good!! I’m singing. Are you?

Old Bay Shrimp with Lemon Aioli

Old Bay Shrimp with Lemon Aioli

Old Bay Shrimp with Lemon Aioli is one of those super simple recipes that has big bang flavor…and who doesn’t love that? Serve as an appetizer hot, warm, or room temp and enjoy the zingy, lemony aioli and charred lemon wedges with each piece of shrimp. 🍋🍤😊

Bourbon-Spiked Paté

Bourbon-Spiked Paté

Paté isn’t for everyone but for the fans out there, Bourbon-Spiked Paté is calling your name. It’s amazingly creamy, silky, and delicious. It’s also a perfect holiday or potluck appetizer. And don’t forget the accoutrements to get the full paté experience – gluten free crackers or bagel chips (as I used), blackberry or blueberry jam, apple slices, honey, etc. The sky is the limit!

Harissa Honey Popcorn Chicken (Gluten Free)

Harissa Honey Popcorn Chicken (Gluten Free)

Most people who know me, know I love sports…especially football. I spend a lot of time talking football and watching football, specifically the Philadelphia Eagles. Having awesome snacks while watching the games is key to the overall experience. Serving something other than, or in addition to, wings, dips, and chips is welcomed. Harissa Honey Popcorn Chicken is a new fav. It’s crispy, saucy, slightly spicy bite-sized pieces of goodness that can be deep fried or air fried.

Gluten Free Chicken Lettuce Wraps (P.F. Chang’s Copycat)

Gluten Free Chicken Lettuce Wraps (P.F. Chang’s Copycat)

Almost everyone loves chicken lettuce wraps (except for vegetarians and vegans perhaps😉)! If you make Gluten Free Chicken Lettuce Wraps (P.F. Chang’s Copycat), you’ll have an instantaneous home run. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or main course, these wraps will get gobbled up…and fast!

Parsnip-Wrapped Stuffed Dates

Parsnip-Wrapped Stuffed Dates

Parnsip-Wrapped Stuffed Dates with is a clever vegetarian twist on the more-commonly known and loved bacon-wrapped stuffed dates. The marinated parsnip ribbons impart bangin’ robust flavor to this appetizer …similar to what bacon does for the traditional recipe. So if you’re a vegetarian or bacon just isn’t your thing, Parnsip-Wrapped Stuffed Dates is for you!

Perfectly Cooked Jammy Eggs

Perfectly Cooked Jammy Eggs

Hard-boiled eggs are great but I really jam on Perfectly Cooked Jammy Eggs. The whites are perfectly set and firm and the yolk has a luscious, creamy texture. Serve the eggs in a soup, salad, grain or noodle bowl or eaten solo with some kosher or flaky sea salt and freshly ground pepper or my favorite way…with a bump of caviar or roe …because, why not😋?!

BROWNED-BUTTER BANANA BREAD WITH CHOCOLATE CHIPS (GLUTEN FREE)

BROWNED-BUTTER BANANA BREAD WITH CHOCOLATE CHIPS (GLUTEN FREE)

I have experimented with SO many gluten free banana bread recipes and Browned-Butter Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips (Gluten Free), is hands-down, the BEST! I can’t stop thinking about it or eating it! You’ll find it has the perfect crumb, richness, and moistness. And no one will know that it’s gluten free, it’s that delicious. I can’t wait for you to make it!

Seared Honey Lime Scallops

Seared Honey Lime Scallops

Seared Honey Lime Scallops is simultaneously refreshing and decadent and can be served as a main course or an appetizer. It’s up to you! Either way you’re going to love the flavors of this recipe. And you can serve the scallops warm or cold which is an extra bonus.

Sweet Potato Blue Cheese Dip

Sweet Potato Blue Cheese Dip

If you’re a fan of sweet potatoes and blue cheese (which I am!), this dip is for you! It’s got the sweetness and colorfulness of the sweet potatoes combined with the creaminess and tang of the blue cheese. Sweet Potato Blue Cheese Dip is a novel alternative to the usual dips that most of us eat. Grab a handful of potato chips and dig in!  

Sesame-Lime Grilled Wings

Sesame-Lime Grilled Wings

I’ve made Sesame Lime Grilled Wings many times and they are REALLY good. Totally finger lickin’ good…and without being fried😜! Kudos go to the Sesame-Lime Vinaigrette and the grill for elevating these crispy wings to the next level.

Fried Calamari with Zingy Aioli (Gluten Free)

Fried Calamari with Zingy Aioli (Gluten Free)

This recipe has been in my head for over 20 years!  Does anyone remember the Philadelphia restaurant Carey’s on 15th street?? It only survived for a short while but my sister and I completely fell in love with the fried calamari. It was the most delicious calamari we ever had. The secret ingredient? Graham cracker crumbs! The restaurant is long gone but now you too can enjoy Fried Calamari with Zingy Aioli (Gluten Free). It’s got a sweet, slightly caramelized crunch and crispiness (thanks to the graham crackers) that you’d expect from a fried calamari dish and it’s complemented by a briny, slightly spicy aioli dipping sauce. The combination is totally outrageous!

Oven-Baked Candied Bacon

Oven-Baked Candied Bacon

In general, I prefer salty over sweet but sometimes there’s that perfect interplay of sweet-n-salty. Oven-Baked Candied Bacon is the ideal combo of sweet, salty AND crispy. With only two ingredients needed, it’s super easy to make. Plus, there’s no messy grease splatter to clean up because you’re cooking the bacon in the oven. 🥓😎

Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip

Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip

If you’re a big fan of buffalo wings and simple recipes, you’ll love Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip. It’s a total crowd pleaser that’s big on flavor and small on effort. 

Watermelon, Mango, and Corn Salsa

Watermelon, Mango, and Corn Salsa

Salsa and Chips is an easy and great snack to munch on. This version of salsa uses summer ingredients such as watermelon, mango and corn to shake things up.Watermelon, Mango, and Corn Salsa is the perfect salsa for hot, steamy summer days. It totally hits the spot…and so do the margaritas!

Goldie’s Amazing Tahini Shakes

Goldie’s Amazing Tahini Shakes

Let’s shake it up! Milkshakes are great but Goldie’s Amazing Tahini Shakes are even better! A gigantic thanks to Goldie’s Falafel in Philadelphia (same owners as Zahav, Dizengoff, and Federal Donuts fame) for creating these bombs. The flavor is out-of-this-world and so is the luxurious thickness. It’s hard to believe these babies are gluten free, dairy free, and vegan.

Retro Caviar Pie

Retro Caviar Pie

So gourmet, so easy, and so vintage! You just can’t go wrong with this one. Caviar Pie was a go-to classic for my parents generation. It was served at their fancy dinner parties and Holiday meals. Retro Caviar Pie pays homage to the good ‘ole simpler days.  Pair it with a nice bottle of chilled Champagne.  I’ll toast to that!

Buffalo Wing Caramel Popcorn

Buffalo Wing Caramel Popcorn

Remember Cracker Jacks? This is the grown up version sans peanuts and a prize. It’s got the same caramel sweetness but with a surprising spicy buffalo wing kick. Both delicious and addictive! So easy to make and even easier to eat.

DIY French Onion Dip

DIY French Onion Dip

There’s no sulfates, wheat, or corn syrups in this gluten free DIY French Onion Dip. It’s made with ingredients you can pronounce and it’s beyond delicious. The mix of sugary-sweet caramelized onions with crunchy raw shallots and chives makes this a seriously awesome onion dip. The freshness of ingredients combined with the delicious flavor sets this apart from anything you can buy in the market.

Citrus Scallop Crudo

Citrus Scallop Crudo

Looking to impress your guests? Serve them Citrus Scallop Crudo as an appetizer. While this dish looks impressive, it comes together quickly and effortlessly… and of course, is totally delicious. The sweetness of the sea scallops are complemented by the bright citrus flavors of the sauce, some fresh herbs, and a smidge of heat.

Fresh Figs with Goat Cheese, Honey, and Cracked Pepper

Fresh Figs with Goat Cheese, Honey, and Cracked Pepper

Figs are so delicious and in the summer (through October) when at peak season, they are hard to pass up. I love this recipe of Fresh Figs with Goat Cheese, Honey, and Cracked Pepper because it requires no cooking, is ready in less than 10 minutes and presents (and tastes) like a restaurant-quality appetizer.  

Open-Faced Shrimp Quesadilla-Gluten Free

Open-Faced Shrimp Quesadilla-Gluten Free

The Open-Faced Shrimp Quesadilla at Philadelphia’s El Vez restaurant is so unbelievably delicious that I had to create a Gluten Free version. This Open-Faced Shrimp Quesadilla – Gluten Free is super-easy to make and has just the right amount of cheesiness-to-toppings ratio. I serve it as a main course but it could also be sliced into wedges and served as an appetizer as it is at El Vez. Either way, you can’t go wrong! It’s fabulosa!!

Gluten Free Onion Tart

Gluten Free Onion Tart

Gluten Free Onion Tart is a superb combination of sweet, salty, and savory all housed in a flaky, buttery gluten free crust. In my opinion, onions make everything taste better. And whether or not you choose to add anchovies (which I HIGHLY recommend), the tart is simply delish.

Aunt Renee’s Amazing Chopped Liver

Aunt Renee’s Amazing Chopped Liver

There are so many different ways to make chopped liver but for my family, it’s my Aunt Renee’s Amazing Chopped Liver recipe that rules! It’s simple, dee-licious, and because my Aunt Renee only made it for Passover and Rosh Hashanah, it was a much-anticipated, special treat. I know chopped liver isn’t on everyone’s Top Ten list but when you work up the chutzpah, try my Aunt Renee’s Amazing Chopped Liver recipe.

Zahav-Famous Hummus (5-minute version)

Zahav-Famous Hummus (5-minute version)

When Zahav creates and shares a “5-minute version” of their amazing hummus recipe, you thank them profusely. Zahav-Famous Hummus(5-minute version), is beyond delicious and unbelievably easy to make. And all of the magic takes place in the food processor!

Candied Baked Salami – Hasselback Style (Gluten Free)

Candied Baked Salami – Hasselback Style (Gluten Free)

Oh yeah! Candied Baked Salami – Hasselback Style is a sticky, sweet & savory, mouthwatering treat. It’s so addictive, it’s easy to polish off half of the salami all by yourself like I did!

Mini Tuna Tartare Martinis

Mini Tuna Tartare Martinis

If you are looking for a special appetizer that requires no cooking and looks totally gorgeous when you serve it, this recipe is for you. Mini Tuna Tartare Martinis are total show stoppers that elicit the “Wow!” response. Go ahead…strut your stuff!

Gluten Free Chocolate  Cupcakes

Gluten Free Chocolate Cupcakes

I love chocolate cupcakes. And I especially love them for breakfast with a cup of coffee…it’s my guilty pleasure. Because I’m not much of a baker, I’ve been sampling gluten free box mixes for several years. Finally, I found one that rivals even Duncan Hines. The King Arthur Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Mix is fantastic. The cupcakes are chocolatey, moist, and delish. If you have a sweet tooth like I do, grab a box of King Arthur Gluten Free Chocolate Cake Mix at almost any market and make yourself a batch.

Baked Cider Doughnuts- (Gluten Free)

Baked Cider Doughnuts- (Gluten Free)

Baked Cider Doughnuts (gluten free) rock. They have the big taste of a regular doughnut but with less calories because they are baked. Deliciously crispy on the outside and cake-like on the inside. Baked Cider Doughnuts are great any time of year but they’re especially delicious in the fall…kind of a rite of passage into the new season. Pair with a cup of coffee and enjoy a perfectly satiating breakfast or snack…Michelle-style!

Homemade Dill Pickles…Easy as 1,2,3

Homemade Dill Pickles…Easy as 1,2,3

The recipe for Homemade Dill Pickles…Easy as 1,2,3 only takes about 5 minutes of work and requires ZERO steps of the traditional canning process. By the next day, you’ll be eating perfectly crisp deli-style pickles. Munch on that!

Sautéed Shrimp Cocktail

Sautéed Shrimp Cocktail

There are three reason this shrimp cocktail is always such a big hit -1) the dipping sauce is sooo good and a refreshing change from the standard ketchup-based cocktail sauce, 2) it is served warm or at room temp, and 3) the shrimp are sauteed (vs steamed or boiled) and coated in herbs de Provence. They are a great appetizer for any holiday or party and I guarantee you people will ask you for the recipe!

Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

These wings are deliciously crispy, tangy and finger-lickin’ amazing! Cooking them on a wire rack first at a low temp and then finishing them off at a very high temp allows the fat to drain away from the wings producing the extra crispy skin we all crave in our buffalo wings…and without deep frying!

Citrus Dill Gravlax

Citrus Dill Gravlax

Gravlax is always a party, holiday and brunch favorite. Citrus Dill Gravlax is one of the easiest gravlax recipes to make because unlike other gravlax recipes, this one is left undisturbed in the refrigerator for 3 days…no turning every 12 hours! Love it!! Plus, gravlax can be sliced a day ahead and arranged on a platter a few hours in advance of serving to further simplify your pre-party, holiday or brunch to-do list.

Chicken Wings Africana

Chicken Wings Africana

I usually make a double batch of these wings because each time I make them, they fly off the plate. The combination of spices creates such great flavor they don’t need a sauce.

Easy Deviled Eggs

Easy Deviled Eggs

Easy Deviled Eggs are versatile and tasty. They’re perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or served as an appetizer for a party or holiday.

Raspberry Baked Brie

Raspberry Baked Brie

My daughter, Lindsey, loves loves Baked Brie. When I make it for a party or gathering she gets so excited. I have to admit, baked brie always seems to be a party favorite. And there are so many possible variations, the recipe can always seem new and exciting.

Homemade Chunky Guacamole

Homemade Chunky Guacamole

Homemade guacamole is so good. There’s no reason to buy the pre-made stuff when making the real-deal is so easy.

Chicken Skewers with Spicy Satay Sauce

Chicken Skewers with Spicy Satay Sauce

I discovered these chicken skewers at Costco. They are moist, pre-cooked, gluten free and seasoned really well. I made a simple, homemade spicy satay sauce ahead of time that paired perfectly with the skewers. A great football game-day appetizer.