Tomato Artichoke Noodle Nests with Gluten-free Pasta

Scenario: It’s Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve or some other fabulous night (or even Game Day) when friends and family are gathering to celebrate good company – and good food! This year I have been tasked with bringing the appetizer to get us started and my gluten-free Tomato Artichoke Noodle Nests are sure to be picked clean off the serving platter.  A twirl of tasty gluten-free pasta held together like little bite-sized artichoke quiches are baked in mini muffin tins and topped with succulent roasted tomatoes.Gluten Free Tomato Artichoke Noodle Nests

It’s the perfect pop of pasta that everyone can enjoy as an hors d’oeurvre – and, the leftovers are super tasty for breakfast. Read on to get this gluten-free appetizer recipe: Continue reading

Pomegranate Herb Guacamole Wreath

Everyone needs a Christmas KISS . . . and by KISS, I mean “Keep It Simple Stupid” idea for holiday entertaining. When I have guests drop in unexpectedly or forgot to make something fabulous for a “bring a dish” event, I rely on guacamole. Everyone loves it and it is idiot proof. My Pomegranate Herb Guacamole Wreath is no harder than making a regular avocado mash-up (soooo simple a toddler could do it) and yet so fun and festive your guests will assume you’ve gone all Martha on them. Pomegranate Herb GuaPomegranate Herb Guacamole Wreath

Grab yourself a bag of chips or veggie sticks and read on how to make this 10-minute (max) dip recipe. Continue reading

Blue Cheese Cherry and Pistachio Crescent Pinwheels with Honey

Blue Cheese Cherry and Pistachio Crescent Pinwheels with Honey are the perfect bite for any “tis the season” situation – you know, when you need a holiday appetizer that is quick, easy and sure to disappear off the platter faster than Santa up the chimney.  Blue Cheese Cherry Pistachio Pinwheels with honey

True, these warm and gooey, savory and sweet hors d’oeuvres fall more on my splurge list due to the pre-made crescent dough used in the making.  However, I see no reason not to treat myself to few carb-wonderful days during these weeks of celebrating. Also, good news, if you follow a gluten-free diet, I have seen a gluten free version of this refrigerated dough on the market shelves. Read on to get the recipe: Continue reading

Blue Cheese, Cherry and Pistachio Spread | Low Carb, Keto

Blue Cheese, Cherry and Pistachio Spread is a creamy, dreamy addition to your holiday menu – or even simple snack for every day. Blue Cheese Cherry Pistachio Spread - low carb and keto friendly

As we close out these last few months of the year in high gear, it’s always nice to have a 5-minute holiday appetizer in your back pocket  – and this spread (or dip) is a festive, flavorful and fast winner! Even with a bit of dried fruit, this low-carb recipe can work as a treat for those on the keto diet. Read on to get this keto-friendly and low carb appetizer recipe. Continue reading

Lemony Whipped Feta with Hemp Hearts

So, latest obsession . . . lemon whipped feta cheese! With just a few ingredients, you can turn these humble crumbles into a creamy, crave-inducing, low-carb snack (even keto snack) with with multiple uses other than just shoving straight in the face.

Lemony Whipped Feta with Hemp Seed is a quick and easy low carb dish that can be used as a spread, dip and even a sauce for warm pasta or zoodles. With less than 1 gram net carbs, this appetizer recipe can also fit in with a keto diet.

I have always loved feta cheese, but never though of it as something you could spread or dip into. But, with just a few minutes and a few simple ingredients – voila! I’ve done several different versions of whipped feta, but I really like this one using hemp hearts for a nutrition boost. Read on to get the recipe for Lemony Whipped Feta with Hemp Seed. Continue reading