Let the partying begin! Our New Year’s celebration got off to an early start last night when my alma mater, the Wisconsin Badgers, beat Miami in the 2009 Champs Sports Bowl. Not even the bite-sized cheesecake could top that sweet victory. Of course, the party included much more than a few desserts. The main attraction was the snack and appetizer table, which featured dozens of unique dips, chips, cracker and assorted crudite. The buffet was delicious and appropriate for a large gathering. If you are looking for outstanding dips to serve at your college football bowl party or a New … Continue reading →

Last December I went to a New Year’s Eve party at a friend’s house, but instead of serving traditional prime rib, she went all out making dozens (yes, dozens) of unique appetizers. She had a few hearty ones that were rich and delicious, but she also made sure to put out a few lighter options too. I loved them all, and the best part was that I didn’t feel guilty trying a little of everything. Creating a New Year’s Eve buffet with an array of appetizers gives your guests the chance to sample a variety of dishes, like these: SHRIMP … Continue reading →

It’s the day many pro football fans have been waiting eight long months for—the kickoff of the new NFL regular season. Let the tailgating begin! Fire up the grill and kick up your party a few notches with these fabulous football dishes: BARBEQUE STEAK Ingredients: 2 to 4 well trimmed beef t-bone or porterhouse steaks, cut 1-inch thick Salt Ingredients for BBQ Rub: 2 tablespoons chili powder 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar 1 tablespoon ground cumin 2 teaspoons minced garlic 2 teaspoons cider vinegar 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper Directions: Combine rub ingredients and press evenly … Continue reading →

Are you ready for some football? Whether you are a fan of high school, college or pro football (or all three), then this is your weekend to celebrate. The pigskin is back in action, and that means tailgating season is ready for kick-off. If you are looking for some tasty tailgating dishes that don’t require a ton of time or effort (or utensils) to prepare, then consider the following: TROPICAL SALSA Ingredients: 1 large ripe mango, chopped 1/4 cup red onions, chopped 1/4 cup green and yellow bell peppers, chopped 1 (8-ounce) can pineapple tidbits in juice, drained 1 tablespoon … Continue reading →

Don’t let the last unofficial weekend of summer go by without taking advantage of perfect picnic weather. Gather the clan and head to the park or beach for a Labor Day potluck. The following simple dishes are sure to be winners at your holiday fiesta. Not only are they portable and tasty, but also, you don’t need utensils to feast on them: TEXAS CAVIAR Ingredients: 1 can black-eyed peas, drained 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained 1 cup celery, finely sliced 1 green bell pepper, finely diced 1 tomato, diced 1 small onion, finely diced 3 chopped scallions, divided … Continue reading →

Give your ordinary buffet a boost by creating dishes with international flair. The following simple recipes allow your guests to sample flavors from around the world, and are perfect for summer picnics or family potlucks. ITALIAN PESTO TORTELLINI Ingredients: 3/4 cup fresh basil pesto 1/4 cup canola oil 1/2 cup minced red onion 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper 1/4 cup finely yellow red bell pepper 1/4 cup finely diced orange bell pepper 4 cups cheese filled rainbow tortellini (cooked, rinsed, drained, chilled) Directions: Toss ingredients in a large bowl, season with slat and pepper and mix thoroughly. Serve … Continue reading →

Say goodbye to big Tupperware containers filled with green salads that sit untouched at summer picnics and hello to these hearty versions that pack a punch with bold flavors and unique textures: SPICY SOUTHWESTERN PASTA SALAD WITH CHICKEN Ingredients: 1/2 cup fresh lime juice 1/2 cup cilantro 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 garlic clove Dash hot sauce 2/3 cups canola oil 2 boneless chicken breasts, grilled and diced 1 cup red pepper, chopped 1/4 cups red onion, diced 1/2 cup celery, diced 1/2 cup black olives, sliced 2 green onions, chopped 2 fresh jalapenos, chopped and seeded … Continue reading →

You don’t have to jet off to Hawaii to get a taste of the tropics this summer. Rather, consider hosting a simple summer luau in your own backyard. You might not be able to serve up the traditional kalua pig, poi and haupia, but you can whip up these terrific tropical-inspired treats: TROPICAL MEATBALLS Ingredients for Meatballs: 1 pound lean ground beef 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion 1/2 cup fine dry bread crumbs 1 tablespoon chopped parsley 1 teaspoon garlic salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper 1 egg 2/3 cup milk 1 (13 oz.) can pineapple tidbits 1 tablespoon butter 2 tablespoons … Continue reading →

Potlucks in the park are popular this time of year. However, in most cases, the person hosting the event is the one in charge of providing the main entree. Meanwhile, other guests are asked to bring their favorite side dishes to pass. If you are planning to attend a summer potluck in the coming weeks, then consider making these simple sides that pack quite a punch on a hot summer day: SIMPLE SHRIMP SPREAD Ingredients: 1/4 pound diced cooked shrimp 1 stick butter, softened 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened 2 tablespoons chopped green onions 1 tablespoon lemon juice 4 … Continue reading →

With summer in full swing, many home cooks are abandoning their stoves and turning to their outdoor grills to sear scrumptious seasonal treats. The following recipes allow you to flex your grilling muscles while adding spice to your nightly meal. Forget about the same ol’ boring hotdogs and chicken, and consider barbequing these unique entrees: MEDITERRANEAN BURGERS Ingredients: 2 pounds lean ground beef 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese 1 teaspoon garlic salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 cup plain yogurt 1 cup sour cream 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice … Continue reading →