Appetizers, La muse en bouche, Starters... call them what you want, just be sure they are fabulous!
Here you will find a collection of some of my faves with more to come. Have a request? Let me know.
Here you will find a collection of some of my faves with more to come. Have a request? Let me know.
EGGPLANT DIP w/ Pomegranate molasses
Taking the classic eggplant and tahini with lots of garlic and lemon juice dip and topping it with pomegranate molasses, is like adding colorful gemstones to accessorize a classic outfit. Find this exotic syrup in the international section of most grocery stores and of course, in fine Mid-eastern stores. There are so many ways you can use it. Sweet or savory foods benefit from a generous drizzle.
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Taking the classic eggplant and tahini with lots of garlic and lemon juice dip and topping it with pomegranate molasses, is like adding colorful gemstones to accessorize a classic outfit. Find this exotic syrup in the international section of most grocery stores and of course, in fine Mid-eastern stores. There are so many ways you can use it. Sweet or savory foods benefit from a generous drizzle.
Click here to read more
SAVORY & SPICY NUT CHEESE STUFFED DATES
Recipe created by Teri Gentes. Permission is required to re-publish
When you want to create a fast and impressive appetizer fast these stuffed dates are a perfect choice. Served warm is best in my view yet they are good at room temperature as well.
Create a few different varieties if you like and consider doubling the recipe if you are hosting a crowd.
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Recipe created by Teri Gentes. Permission is required to re-publish
When you want to create a fast and impressive appetizer fast these stuffed dates are a perfect choice. Served warm is best in my view yet they are good at room temperature as well.
Create a few different varieties if you like and consider doubling the recipe if you are hosting a crowd.
Click here to read more
HUMMUS - BASIC RECIPE
Use this recipe as a foundation for the proverbial dip you are likely paying too much for at the groceries. It only takes 5 minutes for a simple version familiar to classic chickpea and tahini hummus yet you can use any type of beans you like. The same goes for the seed or nut butter.
From here you can whirl and enjoy or you can add roasted veggies, aromatics of your choice, various herbs and spices and...
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Use this recipe as a foundation for the proverbial dip you are likely paying too much for at the groceries. It only takes 5 minutes for a simple version familiar to classic chickpea and tahini hummus yet you can use any type of beans you like. The same goes for the seed or nut butter.
From here you can whirl and enjoy or you can add roasted veggies, aromatics of your choice, various herbs and spices and...
Click here to read more
BABA GANOUSH - MID-EASTERN DIP
This wonderful creamy Mid-Eastern classic dip blends the humble eggplant with calcium rich tahini, anti-inflammatory powerhouses’ garlic, onions and fresh lemon juice. It’s simple and easy to prepare and made exotic with sumac and zaatar. See the note for more info.
Traditionally served with pita bread, its perfect with veggies, GF crackers/flat-breads or used in wraps, sandwiches and burgers.
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This wonderful creamy Mid-Eastern classic dip blends the humble eggplant with calcium rich tahini, anti-inflammatory powerhouses’ garlic, onions and fresh lemon juice. It’s simple and easy to prepare and made exotic with sumac and zaatar. See the note for more info.
Traditionally served with pita bread, its perfect with veggies, GF crackers/flat-breads or used in wraps, sandwiches and burgers.
Click here to read more
BITE SIZE BRUSCHETTA BASKETS
This flavor jammed bruschetta bites are a truly perfect appetizer sure to win over your guests. Making little baskets with the baguette slices allow you to heap on the topping making them fabulous for parties where guests are wandering around. Make it asap and send me a message about how much you enjoyed them for I trust you will. Make the baskets and filling ahead if you like and assemble just before you are ready to serve it. Arranging on a large platter with scatterings of fresh basil and an extra showering of your preferred cheese makes for a pretty presentation.
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This flavor jammed bruschetta bites are a truly perfect appetizer sure to win over your guests. Making little baskets with the baguette slices allow you to heap on the topping making them fabulous for parties where guests are wandering around. Make it asap and send me a message about how much you enjoyed them for I trust you will. Make the baskets and filling ahead if you like and assemble just before you are ready to serve it. Arranging on a large platter with scatterings of fresh basil and an extra showering of your preferred cheese makes for a pretty presentation.
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VEGGIE SALAD SPRING ROLLS
Fresh salad spring rolls! Infused with flavor, texture, color and crunch, these are amazing. You can fill them with most anything you enjoy and use up odds and ends. Just be sure to include some vibrant herbs like mint and cilantro. Often made with seafood, this version is vegan and hearty enough to be your main course.
All you need is to serve with SunButter satay sauce and if you wish, pair with miso soup or mango salad. A fabulous meal.
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Fresh salad spring rolls! Infused with flavor, texture, color and crunch, these are amazing. You can fill them with most anything you enjoy and use up odds and ends. Just be sure to include some vibrant herbs like mint and cilantro. Often made with seafood, this version is vegan and hearty enough to be your main course.
All you need is to serve with SunButter satay sauce and if you wish, pair with miso soup or mango salad. A fabulous meal.
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SASSY MANGO SALSA
It's fresh, tangy, sweet, eye catching and ever so addictive! This mango salsa is great as a dip in addition to matching well with grilled and broiled fare. It can be made with papaya, pineapple, cantaloupe or melon as well as mango. Add a minced clove of garlic if you like and really sass it up with diced avocados and tomato.
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It's fresh, tangy, sweet, eye catching and ever so addictive! This mango salsa is great as a dip in addition to matching well with grilled and broiled fare. It can be made with papaya, pineapple, cantaloupe or melon as well as mango. Add a minced clove of garlic if you like and really sass it up with diced avocados and tomato.
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RAW PATE TAPAS
I discovered tapas when visiting Spain in 2000 and fell in foodie love.
We didn't use that term back then yet I was just that, a foodie I had been since the early 80's really. Tapas are little bites of delish food that tempt so many of us. This recipe will do just that. I've offered a nut-free option for those who are dealing with allergies. These are meant to be enjoyed by all eaters. You are sure to love them.
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I discovered tapas when visiting Spain in 2000 and fell in foodie love.
We didn't use that term back then yet I was just that, a foodie I had been since the early 80's really. Tapas are little bites of delish food that tempt so many of us. This recipe will do just that. I've offered a nut-free option for those who are dealing with allergies. These are meant to be enjoyed by all eaters. You are sure to love them.
Click here to read more
CHUNKY, GARLICY GUACAMOLE
A true gift from nature – the almighty avocado! You’ll find a rotating bunch of avocados in my kitchen most assuredly. After all – they are so versatile, so yummy and bursting with nutrient density.
This version of guacamole is one of my favorite ways to enjoy this dip yet stretches avocados a little with the added veggies when you’re feeding a crowd. I find them a bit pricey when visiting my sister in Nashville and I am requested to make it each visit.
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A true gift from nature – the almighty avocado! You’ll find a rotating bunch of avocados in my kitchen most assuredly. After all – they are so versatile, so yummy and bursting with nutrient density.
This version of guacamole is one of my favorite ways to enjoy this dip yet stretches avocados a little with the added veggies when you’re feeding a crowd. I find them a bit pricey when visiting my sister in Nashville and I am requested to make it each visit.
Click here to read more
RAW’ NUT n SEEDS SUSHI ROLLS
Sushi! Its just fabulous to enjoy this fun food and its perfect as a grab n go 'wrap' when you want a yummy meal fast. Well how about making some yourself and filling them with a really easy to make and nutrient dense, seafood and grain-free filling!
These rolls are an excellent whole-foods vegetarian source of alkalizing protein, heart healthy fats, enzymes, vitamins, minerals including iodine and anti-oxidant rich carbs. Stuffed with lots of colorful veggies, you have a fabulous, balanced meal.
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Sushi! Its just fabulous to enjoy this fun food and its perfect as a grab n go 'wrap' when you want a yummy meal fast. Well how about making some yourself and filling them with a really easy to make and nutrient dense, seafood and grain-free filling!
These rolls are an excellent whole-foods vegetarian source of alkalizing protein, heart healthy fats, enzymes, vitamins, minerals including iodine and anti-oxidant rich carbs. Stuffed with lots of colorful veggies, you have a fabulous, balanced meal.
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STUFFED MUSHROOMS VEGGIE CAPS
Years ago my former husband and I hosted annual holiday parties for 70 plus people. We started food prep in October and had a feast that impressed us all. Those mushrooms included cheese and I just knew I could create a delish vegan version. I did just that!
You are sure to love these even if you eat meat – no missing it here. The plant-based cheese I chose is a fave artisan cheese from Nuts for Cheese. There's always a stash in my freezer or you can make your own.
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Years ago my former husband and I hosted annual holiday parties for 70 plus people. We started food prep in October and had a feast that impressed us all. Those mushrooms included cheese and I just knew I could create a delish vegan version. I did just that!
You are sure to love these even if you eat meat – no missing it here. The plant-based cheese I chose is a fave artisan cheese from Nuts for Cheese. There's always a stash in my freezer or you can make your own.
Click here to read more
SUPER SASSY SALSA
It's long been a proverbial favourite. One that I fall back on so often. Whether it's enjoyed stand alone, with corn chips to veggie dippers or with tacos, as a filling in avocados, over sweet potatoes filled with black beans, or as a side with chili or enchiladas, salsa is a great staple to have on hand.
And best, it is so easy to make with endless variations. I suggest you try it as a salad dressing too.
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It's long been a proverbial favourite. One that I fall back on so often. Whether it's enjoyed stand alone, with corn chips to veggie dippers or with tacos, as a filling in avocados, over sweet potatoes filled with black beans, or as a side with chili or enchiladas, salsa is a great staple to have on hand.
And best, it is so easy to make with endless variations. I suggest you try it as a salad dressing too.
Click here to read more
BLACK BEAN SALSA DIP
Are you in need of a quick appetizer that is likely to please all even with the endless varying eating approaches and restrictions of this century? If so, I am quite certain this simple recipe will do it. Mexican food is one of the most popular foods. Its right up there with Italian and given the gluten-free challenges for so many and the movement to eat more plant-based food, a bean dip is eater friendly.
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Are you in need of a quick appetizer that is likely to please all even with the endless varying eating approaches and restrictions of this century? If so, I am quite certain this simple recipe will do it. Mexican food is one of the most popular foods. Its right up there with Italian and given the gluten-free challenges for so many and the movement to eat more plant-based food, a bean dip is eater friendly.
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ALMONDS, DATES AND ROSEMARY APPETIZER
Inspired by a recipe in a Bon Appetite magazine I was leafing through in my dentist office I just had to create this appetizer in my way. Dates are a staple at my place as are almonds, quality olive oil and sea salt so this was easy to do immediately. All I needed was fresh rosemary while I suppose dry would work if needed. Aim for fresh if possible. Use orange zest and orange essential oil for added seasonal flavor infusion. I’ve teri-orized the recipe and I do believe you and your guests will love it.
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Inspired by a recipe in a Bon Appetite magazine I was leafing through in my dentist office I just had to create this appetizer in my way. Dates are a staple at my place as are almonds, quality olive oil and sea salt so this was easy to do immediately. All I needed was fresh rosemary while I suppose dry would work if needed. Aim for fresh if possible. Use orange zest and orange essential oil for added seasonal flavor infusion. I’ve teri-orized the recipe and I do believe you and your guests will love it.
Click here to read more
ROSEMARY HUMMUS
Perfect anytime of the year, this is especially fun in the Christmas season. Besides fresh rosemary being festive it boasts great immune enhancing properties and of course garlic and onions are nutritional heroes too. Yet all this is secondary to taste. First and foremost food needs to be delicious and oh yes, this dip aces this.
Hummus is an absolute fave for me being so fast and easy to make, as versatile as can be and delish as is, stuffed into wraps and veggies and used as a sauce on pizza or pasta when paired with other various ingredients. Make up a big batch, eat some, share some and freeze some. It’s all good! Here’s to eating yummy food all the time!
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Perfect anytime of the year, this is especially fun in the Christmas season. Besides fresh rosemary being festive it boasts great immune enhancing properties and of course garlic and onions are nutritional heroes too. Yet all this is secondary to taste. First and foremost food needs to be delicious and oh yes, this dip aces this.
Hummus is an absolute fave for me being so fast and easy to make, as versatile as can be and delish as is, stuffed into wraps and veggies and used as a sauce on pizza or pasta when paired with other various ingredients. Make up a big batch, eat some, share some and freeze some. It’s all good! Here’s to eating yummy food all the time!
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SPRING PEA n MINT HUMMUS
It was one of those times when I was so hungry I needed food fast yet I have zero desire for fast food. (You have crazy gotta-eat-now longings sometimes right?) I was craving hummus and armed with a massive Costco size bag of frozen peas and a new jar of tahini I decided to blast up a quick batch of hummus. What resulted made me put pen to paper to record my creation so I could share it with you. Since then I've made it many times and its won rave reviews so I had to get it uploaded here. It’s truly super easy to make (I always like that) and just delicious (I like that too).
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It was one of those times when I was so hungry I needed food fast yet I have zero desire for fast food. (You have crazy gotta-eat-now longings sometimes right?) I was craving hummus and armed with a massive Costco size bag of frozen peas and a new jar of tahini I decided to blast up a quick batch of hummus. What resulted made me put pen to paper to record my creation so I could share it with you. Since then I've made it many times and its won rave reviews so I had to get it uploaded here. It’s truly super easy to make (I always like that) and just delicious (I like that too).
Click here to read more
ROASTED BEET HUMMUS
Beets are such a wonderfully vivacious veggie in my view. Their jewel like color is so provocative; the sweet taste is divine and the fact that they are so good for us is a gem in itself. Can you tell I am a fan? This root veggie has numerous benefits such as helping to boost stamina, increase blood flow (thanks to the natural nitrates) and the betaine that beets contain help to reduce inflammation and protect our cells from environmental stress as well. That rich color I mentioned comes from phytonutrients that research shows may help ward off cancer.
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Beets are such a wonderfully vivacious veggie in my view. Their jewel like color is so provocative; the sweet taste is divine and the fact that they are so good for us is a gem in itself. Can you tell I am a fan? This root veggie has numerous benefits such as helping to boost stamina, increase blood flow (thanks to the natural nitrates) and the betaine that beets contain help to reduce inflammation and protect our cells from environmental stress as well. That rich color I mentioned comes from phytonutrients that research shows may help ward off cancer.
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OVEN ROASTED CAULIFLOWER DRUMSTICKS
If you are longing for delish, fun food all eaters can enjoy, this is it! These cauliflower drumsticks are perfect for hockey nights, Super Bowl Sunday or any other sports you love. Movies and parties too! Now, check out this recipe below, stock up on the ingredients and get into the kitchen to make these before game time. I think you’re going love them! Do let me know, please leave a comment below. Its always great hearing from you.
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If you are longing for delish, fun food all eaters can enjoy, this is it! These cauliflower drumsticks are perfect for hockey nights, Super Bowl Sunday or any other sports you love. Movies and parties too! Now, check out this recipe below, stock up on the ingredients and get into the kitchen to make these before game time. I think you’re going love them! Do let me know, please leave a comment below. Its always great hearing from you.
Click here to read more.
SPICY SWEET POTATO HUMMUS
Time is such a hot topic for most of us and using it wisely is just that – wise. Whenever my oven is on I take full advantage preparing additional foods for future meals. This time its sweet potatoes to use both in my Pumpkin Spiced Pumpkin butter Parfait as well as this sweet, savory, sassy spiced Lentil SunButter hummus. It has earned rave reviews and is oh so simple to make.
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Time is such a hot topic for most of us and using it wisely is just that – wise. Whenever my oven is on I take full advantage preparing additional foods for future meals. This time its sweet potatoes to use both in my Pumpkin Spiced Pumpkin butter Parfait as well as this sweet, savory, sassy spiced Lentil SunButter hummus. It has earned rave reviews and is oh so simple to make.
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FAUX TUNA BRUSCHETTA
Your perfect sexy appetizer that’s ever so easy to make!
A simple collection of ingredients that come together and stand out. You can make this when last minute guests show up and come off as the perfect host with creative talent.
Blast this bean blend in your food processor, slather it on zucchini or seedless cucumbers slabs, top with cayenne, black pepper and sea salt and team with garden fresh tomatoes, fresh basil and a flavor rich garlic and herb balsamic vinaigrette drizzle. The combo is incredible.
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Your perfect sexy appetizer that’s ever so easy to make!
A simple collection of ingredients that come together and stand out. You can make this when last minute guests show up and come off as the perfect host with creative talent.
Blast this bean blend in your food processor, slather it on zucchini or seedless cucumbers slabs, top with cayenne, black pepper and sea salt and team with garden fresh tomatoes, fresh basil and a flavor rich garlic and herb balsamic vinaigrette drizzle. The combo is incredible.
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MEDITERRANEAN TAPENADE
This Mediterranean Tapenade is perfect with grilled eggplant, mushrooms and squash or you can use it to top crostini or fill wraps or veggies such as tomatoes, avocados, cucumbers and endives etc. Served as a main course or Tapas it’s so dang good. I’ve made it as a hostess/host gift much to the delight of the recipients. What’s so wonderful is how you can vary it up each time you make it with the use of different herbs and various olives.
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This Mediterranean Tapenade is perfect with grilled eggplant, mushrooms and squash or you can use it to top crostini or fill wraps or veggies such as tomatoes, avocados, cucumbers and endives etc. Served as a main course or Tapas it’s so dang good. I’ve made it as a hostess/host gift much to the delight of the recipients. What’s so wonderful is how you can vary it up each time you make it with the use of different herbs and various olives.
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RAW NUT PATE TAPAS
Here is an absolute staple for anyone needing food in a hurry!
There are endless varieties you can make as well as endless ways to use this fabulous dip/pate. I keep a stash in my freezer, to tap into when I have little time for food prep or when last minute guests arrive. I even take some with me when I travel.
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Here is an absolute staple for anyone needing food in a hurry!
There are endless varieties you can make as well as endless ways to use this fabulous dip/pate. I keep a stash in my freezer, to tap into when I have little time for food prep or when last minute guests arrive. I even take some with me when I travel.
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ROASTED BEET CASHEW CRÈME DIP w/ ZATAAR
Oh the beauty of beets! They taste amazing fresh and raw as well as boiled or roasted. Pureed into this delish dip with cashew butter and zataar and its just plain magic. Zataar is from the mid-east and you may have enjoyed it in the past on warm pita bread that looks speckled with black pepper. It's actually oregano, sesame seeds and sumac and if you've not had it, trust me, you must try it. Find it a most mid-Eastern stores and even some quality and/or international grocers.
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Oh the beauty of beets! They taste amazing fresh and raw as well as boiled or roasted. Pureed into this delish dip with cashew butter and zataar and its just plain magic. Zataar is from the mid-east and you may have enjoyed it in the past on warm pita bread that looks speckled with black pepper. It's actually oregano, sesame seeds and sumac and if you've not had it, trust me, you must try it. Find it a most mid-Eastern stores and even some quality and/or international grocers.
Click here for more