Gorgonzola & Dried Fruit Pie aka your Holiday Raisin d’Etre

What first comes to mind when you think of a holiday pie? For most, perhaps pumpkin, pecan or even all-American apple pie, but probably not a Gorgonzola & Dried Fruit Pie. However, once you spread a bit of this appetizer pie on a slice of pear, apple or savory wafer, you’ll never think of anything else!  Gorgonzola and Dried Fruit Pie

This deceptively easy, 4-ingredient appetizer will be the center of attention at any party, whether you’re hosting or need to take something along. As far as edible things go, it’ will become your “raisin” d’etre (haha, get the dried fruit pun?) Read on to get the recipe! Continue reading

Twice Baked Creamy Ranch Broccoli Potato Bites

‘Tis the season for side dishes and my Twice-Baked Creamy Ranch Broccoli Potato Bites are little mouthfuls of yumminess, fancy enough for your holiday dinner yet an easy fix to pair with fast weeknight meals.  And, as a party appetizer, these personal-sized poppers vanish before you can set down the platter! Twice Baked Creamy Ranch Broccoli Potato Bites

Something about a soft and tender baked potato that is so comforting, but often with all the other side dishes can be too filling.  Would you believe one of my go-to “carbo loading” meals at a nearby deli (a super-sized spud topped with broccoli cheese soup) inspired these cute little veggie-stuffed mini potatoes?  It’s true, read on to get the recipe! Continue reading

Baked Butternut Squash Dip

Holiday get-togethers are starting to gear up, from Halloween potlucks in the cul-de-sac to Thanksgiving gatherings, soon enough! When I need an autumn recipe that’s easy (but looks like I took some time with it) and healthy (but seems rich and indulgent), my blender recipe for Baked Butternut Ricotta Dip is a favorite to share.

Ranch Butternut Ricotta Dip bread in pan

Read on to get all the recipe details and find out my secret ingredient in this comforting, ooey-gooey appetizer. Continue reading

Light Truffle Mushroom Burger Queso

When it comes to appetizers, are you looking for a starting player for your football parties and other fall-season entertaining? It’s the winning call to move my Light Truffle Mushroom Burger Queso to the top of any line up. This creative hamburger-inspired dip is insanely flavorful, fun to serve, and quite likely to cause a celebration dance in the chip-and-dip zone.  Light Truffle Mushroom Burger Queso

Oh, and did I mention that in the scheme of indulgent, creamy, cheesy dips, this queso is not the diet disaster that you might assume it to be? I’ve lightened it by using lower-fat milk and cheeses along with lean ground beef! Read on to get all the deets and this winning recipe. Continue reading

Grilled Avocado Boats with Blistered Tomatoes

Last week, I grilled cantaloupe and today it’s avocados! I’ve been getting my fruit freak on by firing up whatever pretty produce catches my eye. This isn’t big news at my house. When it comes to backyard cooking, I’m always in beta mode and, thankfully, it’s nearly impossible to mess up a simple, fresh meal on the grill. Grilled Avocado Boats

Are you ready to swoon over the “smoky swag” of my Grilled Avocado Boats with Blistered Tomatoes. Trust me, you’ll swoon and then run for a spoon! Continue reading