5 Appetizers that are Perfect for any Party

I'm a huge fan of appetizers... especially at parties. What's more fun than sitting around with friends sampling lots of tasty bites? Today, I am sharing 5 recipes for appetizers that are delicious and easy to make. 

Nacho Dip - I love this nacho dip because it doesn't require any cooking. It's simple to throw together and bring to a friend's house. Trust me... the platter will be clean when you leave the party! (Find the recipe here.)

Swiss Cheese Dip - My mom always made this tasty treat when I was little, and it was always a hit. Who doesn't love cheese dips?!?! (You can find the recipe for the warm and gooey cheese dip here.)

Sweet and Sour Meatballs - Meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser, and this sweet and sour version is simple to make and tastes delicious. (You can find the full recipe here.)

Strawberry and Goat Cheese Crostini with Balsamic Glaze - Adding a little fruit to an appetizer makes it lighter and healthier. I love the combination of the creamy goat cheese, the crunchy crostini, the sweet strawberry and the rich balsamic glaze. This appetizer is an explosion of flavors in your mouth. (You can find the full recipe here.)

Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushroom Caps - Stuffed mushroom caps are always a favourite of mine... and this recipe is simple and delicious. You won't believe how easy it is to make this fantastic appetizer. (Find the full recipe here.)

What's your favourite appetizer? I know you won't be disappointed by any of these easy and inexpensive appetizers at your next party.

♥
Gina Bell (aka East Coast Mommy)

You can find more recipes here.

Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushroom Caps with Balsamic Glaze

Doesn't everyone need a delicious"go to" appetizer to serve to guests and to bring to parties? I have a few appetizers I love, but these goat cheese stuffed mushroom caps with balsamic glaze have become a favourite of mine. They are super easy to make, and they are packed with rich flavor.

To make these tasty treats, you'll just need a few simple ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fine bread crumbs
• 5oz (150g) goat cheese
• 15 large white button mushrooms (with the stems removed)
• salt and pepper to taste (I like a little salt and a generous amount of pepper.)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. In a small bowl, mash together (with a fork) the bread crumbs and goat cheese. 
3. Fill the mushrooms with the cheese filling (until heaping). 
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet, and bake for 20 minutes.
5. Move mushrooms to a plate or tray, and drizzle with balsamic glaze. (You can make your own, but I buy a brand called Nonna Pia's, and it is delicious.)

This recipe is simple to make, but your guests will think you are a culinary genius when they try these little bites of goodness. 

Give these goat cheese stuffed mushroom caps with balsamic glaze a try, and let me know what you think. I have a feeling you are not going to be disappointed!

♥
Gina Bell (aka East Coast Mommy)

Recipes (meal time family favorites and appetizers)

Below, you will find a collection of some of my favorite recipes for family meals. They are easy to prepare and work for fussy kids. Scroll down and click on the links for the full list of ingredients and directions.

Fluffy and Buttery Biscuits

Family-Friendly "Shortcut" Lasagna

Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes and Pork Tenderloin

Easy Weeknight Broccoli, Chicken and Peppers Pesto Pasta

Super-simple Bacon and Cheese Quiche

Creamy Corn Chowder

Healthy, No Yeast, One Bowl Soda Bread

Swiss Cheese Dip

Nacho Dip

Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushroom Caps (with balsamic glaze)

Lunchbox Smoothies

Perfectly Cooked Hard-boiled Eggs

Make Ahead Meatballs

School Lunch Tips and Tricks

Peanut Free Lunch Ideas for Picky Eaters

Pantry Pancake Mix

Easy Appetizers

Simple Swiss Cheese Dip

Cheese is always a crowd-pleaser, and this simple swiss cheese dip makes a delicious appetizer. Serve the dip warm with crackers and watch it disappear.

You'll just need four ingredients: 

1 package cream cheese (softened)
1 1/2 cups swiss cheese (grated)
1/3 cup mayonaise (or miracle whip)
1/3 cup sliced almonds (toasted, if desired)

Use a potato masher to mix the cream cheese, swiss cheese, and miracle whip.

Spoon into an oven safe dish (or divide between two dishes). Sprinkle with almonds.

Place in oven for 10 minutes, stir, and continue cooking for 5-10 minutes. (Garnish with additional toasted almonds, if desired.)

My mom has been making this dip for years, and it is always a big hit with guests. If you give it a try, let me know what you think.

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

Easy Appetizer {Nacho Dip}

Have you ever been asked to bring an appetizer to a party?  Do you have a "go to" appetizer that you like to make? I always like to bring something that is simple, tasty, and doesn't need to be reheated.  I hate bothering the hostess to heat up something that I have brought. So, today I am sharing my favourite appetizer to bring to gatherings: My Easy and Delicious Nacho Dip.

For a plate of this dip, you'll need:

• one (8oz package) of room temperature cream cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons of mild taco seasoning mix
• 3/4 cup mild salsa
• 1/2 green pepper (or whatever colour you have on hand)
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

1)  Combine the room temperature cream cheese with the sour cream and mild taco seasoning mix.  {I like to use a potato masher, and then a spoon.}

2)  Spread the cream cheese/sour cream mixture onto a large plate or platter, and then cover with mild salsa, green pepper, and grated cheddar cheese.

3) Chill in fridge until ready to serve.

That's it!  To make a large platter, you can double the recipe. (I often do this if I know there is going to be a crowd.)

Serve this dip with a bowl of nacho chips, and I guarantee there won't be any leftovers to take home. 

What is your favorite appetizer recipe?  I am always looking for new "tried and true" favourites.

♥
Gina Bell (aka East Coast Mommy)