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Category: Appetisers

  • Hocus Pocus Charcuterie Board

    Hocus Pocus Charcuterie Board

    A tribute to the Sanderson Sisters, this Hocus Pocus charcuterie board will have all of your guests dying at not only the delicious variety of food but the uncanny resemblance to some of Halloween’s most famous witches!

    Who doesn’t love a good-themed dish? Halloween is one of my favorite holidays for cooking because of the creativity! If you love celebrating the month of All Hallows Eve, then you must try out these Mummy Hot Dogs, these Poison Caramel Apples, and these festive Halloween Cupcakes!

    The top view of a Hocus Pocus Charcuterie Board.

    What is a Hocus Pocus Charcuterie Board?

    If you have never heard of the movie Hocus Pocus, then I have TWO things that you need to do. First, you must go and watch the movie. The Sanderson Sisters are classic and iconic witches for the month of October, and you MUST become acquainted with them. After you watch the movie THEN, you much make this Hocus Pocus charcuterie board.

    This charcuterie board is filled with all sorts of goodies, both savory and sweet, that will have you debating whether or not you devour everything in sight or preserve it all because it looks so perfect! Have a viewing party and make this board for all of your guests, and your party will be the talk of the town. This is the perfect board with Winifred’s bright red hair and the sister’s classic facial expressions… You may just have to make this every year and add a new tradition to your Halloween lineup!

    The Recipe Critic Recommendation

    Large Round Charcuterie Board

    18" Round Acacia Wooden Serving Board with Handle

    This wooden board is perfect for adding fruits, candy, cheese, and chocolate to make your favorite charcuterie board.

    CLICK HERE FOR THE LINK

    What Meat and Cheeses Do I Need

    The very first step on this Hocus Pocus charcuterie board is the cheeses for the three witches’ heads. These will anchor the entire board together, and it’s the whole reason that it’s even made! Besides the main wheels in the center, you will want to pick out a variety of cheeses and meats from your local grocery store. I always like to pick different colors and textures so that I don’t have the same two kinds on my board. For this recipe, I used the following meat and cheeses:

    • Brie Wheels: These are for the Sanderson Sister heads.
    • Bellavitano Merlot Cheese: Get the kind that has the dark purple top.
    • Cheese Sticks: These are used for Sarah’s hair (the blonde)
    • Uncured Pepperoni: You MUST do this pepperoni because it makes the perfect hair for Winifred!

    Feel free to add any additional cheeses or meats onto the board that you like. Some others that I like are Gruyere, cheddar, or a hard cheese like Parmigiano Reggiano. For meats, I also love using prosciutto di parma or Italian dry salami. Add in as much or little as you would like. It’s a great way to add different shapes and colors.

    4 pictures showing how to add the cheese wheels and the ingredients to make the "hair" of the Sanderson Sisters.

    What Nuts and Fruit Should I Use?

    After I have laid out the three main pieces in the center of this Hocus Pocus charcuterie board, then I start to build around it with the fruit. I do the fruit next because Mary’s hair is made from blackberries! I also made sure to have little pockets of pumpkin seeds on the board first so that they could fill in any empty spaces underneath the other ingredients.

    • Blackberries: These make the absolute perfect hair for Mary!
    • Grapes: I love the purple color of the grapes to go with any Halloween charcuterie board.
    • Blueberries: These almost look black, and their size is small but still have a little bit of texture.
    • Dried Mango: The mangos bring in classic Halloween orange color.
    • Figs: The figs bring in a fantastic texture and different look than the other foods on this charcuterie board.
    • Strawberries: I cut these in half and leave the stems on so that they are easier to eat.
    • Pumpkin Seeds: I like to sprinkle these on the board very first.
    • Pistachios: You can put these on with or without the shells, whichever look you prefer!
    3 pictures of each of the witches faces on the board.

    Cookies, Crackers, and Candy… Oh My!

    I know that traditional charcuterie boards have only meat and cheese, but I love to add spooky snacks that I know that my kids love too! Especially on a board that is celebrating such a fun Halloween movie. You need some delicious sweets to eat while you watch! Here is what I used on this board to make things stand out in color, texture, and of course… taste!

    • Fall Leaf Cookies: You can typically find these at your local grocery store in their seasonal section, or you can find them at Trader Joe’s!
    • Halloween Oreos: I love the Halloween Oreos because of the orange filling!
    • Whole Grain Crackers: Any type of crackers will do here!
    • Orange Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: Costco has these in stock around Halloween. If you can’t find any, then you could easily make your own with some orange candy melt and some pretzels.
    • Chocolate Candy Eyeballs: I just ordered these on Amazon, but you can use any seasonal, spooky candy that your grocery store offers!
    • Gummy Pumpkins: I thought these were a fun touch with the colors and the shape.
    • Black Licorice: This is what you will use to make the Sanderson Sisters’ eyes on the cheese wheels.
    • Pull Apart Strawberry Twizzlers: Shape these into the lips. I like to make them unique for each face.
    • Lindor Truffles: These come in lots of flavors and colors. I like to get ones that have orange, black, or brown wrappers.
    4 pictures showing how to add cheese slices, Oreos and strawberries to the Hocus Pocus Charcuterie board.

    How to Make the Bats for Your Hocus Pocus Charcuterie Board

    You will need a few ingredients to make these delightfully cute Halloween bats for this Hocus Pocus Charcuterie board! I used miniature Reeses Cups, Oreos, and some frosting! Here is how you put them all together!

    1. Add Frosting: Take a miniature Reese’s cup and add some frosting on top.
    2. Break the Oreo: Break the Oreo in half and stick it to the frosting on top of the Reeses cup.
    3. Finish: Top with candy eyeballs.
    3 pictures showing how to make bats out of Oreos and Reeses Peanut Butter Cups.

    How to Make Rice Krispie Eyeballs

    These festive treats are a great addition to this Hocus Pocus charcuterie board! They are spooky, and you can make them any size and color that you want! All you need is some Rice Krispie treats (make them with this recipe!), some food coloring, and then some candy eyeballs. They turn out so cute!

    1. Form: Shape your Rice Krispies treats into small balls.
    2. Add color: Roll in food coloring and top with a candy eyeball.
    A close up picture of the Rice Krispie Eyeballs on a Hocus Pocus Charcuterie Board.

    Let’s Assemble Your Hocus Pocus Charcuterie Board!

    This Hocus Pocus charcuterie board is all about the Sanderson Sisters in the center! So building the rest around them is the most important part. Here is how you will go about putting this all together. Your guests are going to go crazy over this board!!

    1. Make the Sanderson Sisters: Start assembling your board by adding the cheeses. Add the blackberries above the first cheese wheel to create Mary’s hair. Next fold the pepperoni and add three layers above the second wheel of cheese to create Winnie’s hair. Then lastly, use the cheese sticks and slice them into thin sticks for Sarah’s hair.
    2. Add Eyes and Lips: Cut up the black licorice for the eyes and shape the Twizzlers for the lips.
    3. Make the Bats: Take a miniature Reese’s cup and add some frosting on top. Break the Oreo in half and stick it to the frosting on top of the Reeses cup. Top with candy eyeballs.
    4. Make the Rice Krispie Eyeballs: Shape your Rice Krispies into small balls. Roll in food coloring and top with a candy eyeball.
    5. Fill: Fill in the board with the remaining fruit, nuts, cheese, and candy.
    A close up picture of the Hocus Pocus charcuterie board.

    How to Decorate the Board

    Some people like to let the food speak for itself, but I like to add a few different festive Halloween items to the board to really take it over the top. I used a couple of small RIP gravestones, and that was it for this Hocus Pocus charcuterie board. You could also add in a skeleton hand, some fake spiders, and even some black netting to make it extra spooky! Just make sure that whatever you use is large and can’t be mistaken for food. You don’t want anyone accidentally eating it!

    More Delicious Charcuterie Boards

    I love how fun and versatile a charcuterie board is! You can put whatever you want on them and add in any kinds of colors or decorations to theme them for any occasion! Try out a few more… You will want them for every party and get-together!

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    Hocus Pocus Charcuterie Board

    A tribute to the Sanderson Sisters, this Hocus Pocus charcuterie board will have all of your guests dying at not only the delicious variety of food but the uncanny resemblance to some of Halloween's most famous witches!
    Course Appetizer, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Keyword hocus pocus charcuterie board
    Prep Time 30 minutes
    Total Time 30 minutes
    Servings 15 people
    Calories 151kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    Cheese:

    • (3) 8 ounce wheels brie
    • 2 wedges bellavitano merlot cheese Dark purple top
    • cheese sticks

    Meat:

    • uncured pepperoni

    Fruit:

    • blackberries
    • grapes
    • blueberries
    • dried Mango
    • figs
    • strawberries

    Nuts:

    • pumpkin seeds
    • pistachios

    Cookies/Crackers:

    • fall leaf cookies
    • Halloween Oreos
    • whole grain crackers
    • Orange chocolate dipped pretzels

    Candy:

    Reeses Bats:

    • Miniature Reeses Cups
    • Oreos
    • frosting (to hold them together)

    Rice Krispie Eyeballs:

    Instructions

    Assemble the Board

    • Start assembling your board by adding the cheeses. Add the blackberries above the first cheese wheel to create Mary's hair. Next fold the pepperoni and add in three layers above the second wheel of cheese to create Winnie's hair. Then lastly use the cheese sticks and slice into thin sticks for Sarah's hair.
    • Cut up the black licorice for the eyes and shape the Twizzlers for the lips.
    • Fill in the board with the remaining fruit, nuts, cheese, and candy.

    To Make the Reeses Bats

    • Take a miniature Reese's cup and add some frosting on top. Break the Oreo in half and stick it to the frosting on top of the Reeses cup. Top with candy eyeballs.

    To Make the Rice Krispie Eyeballs

    • Shape your Rice Krispies into small balls. Roll in food coloring and top with a candy eyeball.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 151kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.2g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 284mg | Potassium: 69mg | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 268IU | Calcium: 83mg | Iron: 0.2mg
  • Black Bean Hummus

    Black Bean Hummus

    Creamy black bean hummus is a healthy and flavorful dip that is a perfect appetizer or snack. Black beans blended with olive oil, lime juice, garlic, delicious spices, cilantro, and tahini create the tastiest hummus you will ever have.

    I love taking a good dip to a party because it’s the first thing people get to enjoy! This 5-minute dip is my most requested dip, but people also love this crab dip or this delicious creamy dip in the summertime. Every time I bring one of these dips people always ask for the recipe!

    Overhead photo of black bean hummus in a gray bowl garnished with olive oil and cilantro. The hummus is on a gray speckled platter with red peppers, flaxseed crackers, and celery surrounding the dip.

    The Best Black Bean Hummus

    Classic hummus is made with chickpeas, but this black bean hummus is my new favorite version! Black beans have a delicious creamy texture and pair well with all the other flavors in this recipe. The cumin, cilantro, lime, garlic, and tahini of course, make this hummus so tasty, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

    All the flavors in this hummus remind me of some of my other favorite Mexcian appetizers. This amazing Rotel dip, this Texas dip, and my 7-layer dip are just a few of my delicious Mexican-flavored dips. Bring one of them to your next Super Bowl party, or make it as an appetizer for taco night!

    Ingredients Needed For Hummus

    The ingredients for this easy black bean hummus are simple and fresh! Each ingredient adds so much texture and lots of flavors. Because it’s so delicious, you’re going to want to make this as soon as possible so you can start dipping! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

    • Garlic: Garlic adds lots of flavor to this dip!
    • Canned Black Beans: Simply drain and rinse canned black beans. It’s that easy!
    • Olive Oil: Oil helps add moisture to the hummus.
    • Lime Juice: I love the tangy flavor it adds.
    • Tahini: Tahini is KEY to making hummus. Tahini is a sesame paste that I found at any grocery store.
    • Cilantro: A great herb to enhance the flavors of the hummus.
    • Ground Coriander: Delicious spice with yummy flavor.
    • Cumin: Cumin adds flavor and is a great complement to all the other ingredients.
    • Paprika: I love using smoked paprika. Both are great options.
    • Coarse Salt: Season to taste! Salt brings out all of the flavors.

    Black Bean Hummus Recipe

    Hummus is a great way to add protein and fiber to your day! This recipe is so easy because you throw it all into a food processor or blender, and it’s ready in minutes. I love to put out a bowl of this black bean hummus for my kids after school. They have so much fun dipping their favorite raw vegetables and chips into it.

    1. Blend Ingredients: Add all of the ingredients to a food processor, then blend until smooth.
    2. Add Oil If Needed: Add more oil in small amounts if the hummus is too thick.
    3. Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro, then drizzle on top.
    4. Serve: Enjoy with fresh vegetables, tortilla chips, crackers, or on a sandwich or burger as a spread.
    Three process shots of making black bean hummus. First photo is all of the ingredients inside a food processor. Second photo is the hummus blended. Third photo is the hummus place inside a clear bowl.

    Garnish Ideas For Serving Hummus:

    Make your black bean hummus look even prettier with these tasty and flavorful garnishes. Either blend it in by stirring it together or add it right on top for color and presentation. You will love the look, flavor, and texture that it adds!

    • Olive Oil:  Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top.
    • Black Beans:  Add some whole canned black beans that are not blended for look and flavor.
    • Jalapenos:  Jalapenos aren’t in the recipe, but add sliced jalapenos because it is a Mexican-inspired hummus. Spicy and yummy!
    • Cilantro:  Chop up fresh cilantro, then sprinkle it over the top.
    • Lime Wedges:  Add color right on top by garnishing with lime wedges because it is SO pretty!
    • Red Pepper Flakes:  This is a spicy garnish that I personally love because spicy is my favorite!

    Close up photo of black bean hummus in a gray bowl garnished with olive oil and cilantro. The hummus bowl is on a gray speckled platter with red peppers and flaxseed crackers surrounding the dip.

    Storing Leftover Hummus

    You’ll love having this black bean hummus in the fridge to snack on. It is perfect for sandwiches and a healthy snack to enjoy throughout the week. Dip all of your favorite chips and veggies in it!

    • In the Refrigerator: Once you are done making your hummus, then you can store it in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
    • In the Freezer:  If you need any more reasons to make this hummus recipe, it can be frozen for 2-3 months! Simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then you’re ready to enjoy it.

    Close up photo of black bean hummus in a gray bowl garnished with olive oil and cilantro. A cracker is being dipped into the hummus. The hummus is on a gray speckled platter with red peppers, flaxseed crackers, and celery surrounding the dip.

    More Ways To Enjoy Black Beans

    Black beans are so versatile and can be added to a lot of delicious recipes.  I always make sure I have a few cans in my pantry because I use them quite often.  Here are some of the recipes I always need them for.  I hope you try some of these, you’re going to love them too!

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    Black Bean Hummus

    Creamy black bean hummus is a healthy and flavorful dip that is a perfect appetizer or snack. Black beans blended with olive oil, lime juice, garlic, delicious spices, cilantro, and tahini create the tastiest hummus you will ever have.
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine American
    Keyword 15 minute, easy, gluten free
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 10 minutes
    Servings 6
    Calories 235kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 2 cloves garlic peeled
    • 28 ounces canned black beans drained and rinsed
    • 1/4 cup olive oil, more if needed and for drizzle
    • 2 tablespoons lime juice
    • 2 tablespoons tahini
    • 1/2 cup cilantro
    • 1 teaspoon ground coriander seed
    • 1 teaspoon cumin
    • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
    • 1 teaspoon coarse salt

    Instructions

    • Add all of the ingredients to a food processor and blend until smooth.
    • Add more oil in small amounts if the hummus is too thick.
    • Garnish with fresh cilantro and olive oil drizzled on top.
    • Enjoy with fresh vegetables, tortilla chips, crackers, or on a sandwich or burger as a spread.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 235kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Sodium: 899mg | Potassium: 461mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 188IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 63mg | Iron: 3mg
  • Tomato Chutney

    Tomato Chutney

    Tomato chutney is a sweet and savory condiment bursting with tomato flavor, delicious spices, vinegar, and brown sugar. Best known for being the perfect pairing for Indian cuisine, tomato chutney is a great addition to curries, naan bread, and charcuterie boards.

    I sure do love a good sauce on the side of my meals for dipping! It just makes the meal so much better because who doesn’t love to dip? You should definitely try my yum yum sauce, my homemade cheese sauce, or this buffalo sauce. I want to drizzle these sauces on everything and I know you will too!

    Top view of tomato chutney in a white bowl with a gold spoon lifting up chutney. A tan kitchen towel and whole tomatoes are next to the bowl of chutney.

    What Is Tomato Chutney?

    Tomato chutney is the combination of tomatoes, spices, and vinegar slowly cooked down to create a thick and flavorful sauce. If you have never had tomato chutney, then you are in for a treat! It’s the best because it can be served with many different dishes or even as an appetizer! It has a great combination of sweet and savory, and the flavors really make the tomatoes stand out!

    Not only is this recipe super easy to make, but it stores so well in your fridge and will last up to 3 months! Which makes it a great recipe to make ahead of time for all of the yummy dishes that you can use it in. You can eat this warm, cold, or at room temperature. I absolutely love eating this with some delicious naan bread. It makes a great snack or even a side dish to some tikka masala!

    Ingredients Needed For Tomato Chutney

    If you are like me and your garden is bursting with tomatoes during the fall, this recipe is perfect for you! And the best part about it is that it will last you a few months, especially if you make more than one batch! To find all of the ingredient measurements, check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

    • Olive Oil: Olive oil helps cook and soften the shallot and garlic.
    • Shallot: I love using shallots, but feel free to use a white onion if that’s what you have on hand.
    • Garlic: Garlic always adds the best flavor. It’s a MUST!
    • Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are my favorite, but you can use canned ones if you would like.
    • Brown Sugar: Just a little brown sugar adds a delicious caramelly sweetness.
    • Apple Cider Vinegar: Vinegar is a must in chutney because it adds tanginess and helps preserve the chutney. Substitute with red wine vinegar!
    • Ground Ginger: Ginger is a delicious spice used in a lot of Indian cuisines.
    • Cumin: I love the smoky flavor of cumin!
    • Chili Powder: Chili powder is a delicious spice in this recipe!
    • Salt: Salt helps balance and enhance the flavors.

    How to Make Tomato Chutney

    This one-pot tomato chutney recipe easily comes together for you to enjoy! Just allow yourself time for the chutney to cook slowly and simmer on the stove. It can be cooking and doing its thing while you focus on the other things in life that keep you busy! Just set your timer and come back when it’s cooked and ready to be mashed!

    1. Saute the Shallot and Garlic: In a large skillet, add the olive oil, shallot, and garlic and heat over medium-high heat. Gently sauté until they begin to soften.
    2. Add the Tomatoes, Sugar, Vinegar, and Spices: Add in the tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, ginger, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Then stir to combine.
    3. Simmer and Cook: Simmer for 1 hour, occasionally stirring, until the chutney reduces to a jammy consistency. 
    4. Mash or Blend: Once cooked, remove from heat and mash by hand or pulse in a food processor or blender. I prefer chutney on the chunkier side, but feel free to make it chunky or smooth.
    5. Serve: Allow to cool and serve, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
    First photo is the shallot and onion sautéing in a saucepan. The second phot is the tomatoes, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices added in the pot. The third photo is the cook chutney in the pot. The fourth photo is a masher mashing the chutney in the pot to make it a smoother consistency.

    Tips and Variations

    Tomato chutney is easy, and you can tweak it to be less sweet or even spicier! Everyone can enjoy this dip, and I even serve it to my vegan and gluten-free friends. I hope you find my tips helpful!

    • Reduce the Sugar: The sweetness of your chutney can depend on how sweet your tomatoes are. Simply taste and adjust the sugar if you prefer it sweeter. Start out by adding a little less sugar because you want to be able to control the sweetness. You can also use honey, agave, or granulated sugar if you prefer.
    • Make it Spicy: Feel free to add red chili pepper flakes to add some heat!
    • Use Any Tomatoes: I use large vine-ripened tomatoes, but Roma tomatoes or canned tomatoes work great too!
    • Thicken it Up: Chutney has a similar consistency to jam. In order for your chutney to thicken, just be patient because it has to cool in order to thicken! You can also mix two tablespoons of cornflour with one teaspoon of vinegar and stir into your chutney until it has thickened.
    • More Serving Ideas: Not only can you serve this with Indian dishes, but you can use it as a spread on burgers, sandwiches, or on crackers. I also love adding it to a cheese board and spreading it on toast.

    Top view of tomato chutney in a small white bowl with tomatoes and kitchen towel next to the bowl.

    Storing Leftovers

    Storing tomato chutney is easy, and you can use it again and again for as long as it lasts! Pull it out of the fridge whenever you need a spoonful. Follow my simple tips below for storing this lip-smacking condiment.

    • In the Refrigerator: Once your chutney has cooled, then you can store it in an airtight jar or container. Chutney stays fresh for up to 3 months in the fridge!

    Photo of a piece of naan bread being dipped into a bowl of tomato chutney. Tomatoes and a kitchen towel are styled next to the bowl of chutney.

    More Tomato Recipes To Enjoy

    Garden grown tomatoes are my favorite to use in recipes!  You should definitely try some of these recipes that my family loves. Gardens are the best, and I wish we were neighbors so I could share my tomatoes!

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    Tomato Chutney

    Tomato chutney is a sweet and savory condiment bursting with tomato flavor, delicious spices, vinegar, and brown sugar. Best known for being the perfect pairing for Indian cuisine, tomato chutney is a great addition to curries, naan bread, and charcuterie boards.
    Course condiment
    Cuisine Indian
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 25 minutes
    Total Time 35 minutes
    Servings 8
    Calories 73kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 shallot, minced
    • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
    • 4 large tomatoes, diced
    • 1/3 cup brown sugar
    • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
    • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
    • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
    • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon salt

    Instructions

    • In a large skillet, add the olive oil, shallot, and garlic and heat over medium-high heat. Gently sauté until they begin to soften.
    • Add in the tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, ginger, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir until combined.
    • Simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally until the chutney reduces to a jammy consistency.
    • Once cooked, remove from heat and mash by hand or pulse in a food processor or blender. I lprefer chutney on the chunkier side, but feel free to make it chunky or smooth.
    • Allow to cool and serve, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 2tablespoons | Calories: 73kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 301mg | Potassium: 252mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 797IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Honey Chipotle Wings

    Honey Chipotle Wings

    Honey chipotle wings are sweet and spicy and pack a punch of flavor! You will definitely want to serve them as an appetizer on any game day, and they will be the hit of the party!

    Wings are the perfect appetizer for any party. The guests go crazy over them; my family loves them… They are just the best! Try out some more of my favorites like these Thai glazed chicken wings, these parmesan garlic wings, or these amazing and crispy air fryer chicken wings. Whether you like sweet or spicy, I have something for everyone!

    A platter of honey chipotle wings with some ranch dipping sauce.

    Honey Chipotle Wings Recipe

    The very first question that I always get asked when it comes to wings is, “Are they spicy”? People either want to know because they don’t like heat or they loooove the heat. These honey chipotle wings fall into the middle category. Chipotle is spicy on its own, but when you combine it with honey using this sauce, then it tempers that heat just a bit.

    Chipotle peppers come in a can of adobo sauce which tempers the flavor a bit. The peppers can carry a bit of heat on their own, but when you mix them with the honey and the brown sugar in the sauce, then you have (what I think) the perfect combo that satisfies just about anyone. Plus, these wings are super easy to make! So whip up a batch or two and serve them with some ranch or blue cheese dressing at your next game-day party. Your guests won’t stop raving about them!

    Ingredients in Honey Chipotle Wings

    Are you ready to find out how easy this recipe is? It just requires six ingredients! It doesn’t get much easier than that! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact ingredient measurements.

    • Wings: Pat them dry with a paper towel
    • Baking Powder: This helps get that crispy coating on the outside.
    • Garlic Powder: I can’t resist adding in some garlic powder whenever I can!
    • Salt and Pepper: These will enhance the flavors in the recipe.
    • Honey Chipotle Sauce: You can buy this at the store or make it at home using this super easy recipe!

    Let’s Make Some Wings!

    These honey chipotle wings take about 5 minutes to prepare, and then the rest of the time is spent cooking! They will be your new go-to appetizer for any occasion.

    1. Prep: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly spray with cooking spray. 
    2. Shake to Coat: In a ziplock bag, add the wings. Add the baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper and shake to coat evenly. Place them on your prepared baking sheet.
    3. Make the Sauce: Prepare your honey chipotle sauce.
    4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until crispy and no longer pink.
    5. Toss and Serve: Toss the wings in honey chipotle sauce or brush with a basting brush and serve.
    4 pictures showing how to coat the wings, add them to a baking sheets and then add on the honey chipotle sauce.

    Whole Wings vs Drumettes and Wingettes

    These honey chipotle wings are so delicious! But if you haven’t cooked wings before then, you may not know how to buy them! Here are a few tips on what these words mean so you know exactly what to look for when you go to buy them at your grocery store.

    • Drumette and Wingette: These are the “trimmed” and broken down parts of the whole wing. This is the easiest way to buy them because they are ready to cook as soon as you remove them from the package!
    • Whole Wings: You can buy your wings whole, which is the cheaper way to buy them. BUT… it takes a lot of work to break them down and trim them up to be drumettes and wingettes. I always think it’s worth it to pay a little bit more to have them ready to cook.

    A platter of wings with one being dipped into ranch dressing.

    How to Store and Reheat Leftover Wings

    You probably won’t have any extra honey chipotle wings leftover from this recipe, but if you do, then you can easily store and reheat them for later!

    • In the Fridge: Once your wings have cooled, then you can store them in your fridge for a couple of days in an airtight container.
    • To Reheat: Reheat them in the oven at 325 degrees for about 10 minutes, or you can reheat them in the air fryer at 350 degrees for 2-3 minutes (or until they are warmed through). Make sure not to overlap them in the air fryer, or they won’t get crispy.

    A close up of a wing being dipped into ranch dressing.

    More Delicious Wing Recipes

    Wings come in all different flavors which makes that lucky for you because you can have them over and over again and not get sick of them! Here are a few ideas for you to try out. They are all so delicious!

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    Honey Chipotle Wings

    Honey chipotle wings are sweet and spicy and pack a punch of flavor! You will definitely want to serve them as an appetizer on any game day, and they will be the hit of the party! 
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine American
    Keyword easy, honey chipotle wings
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 45 minutes
    Total Time 50 minutes
    Servings 8
    Calories 275kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 4 pounds wings patted dry with a paper towel
    • 1 Tablespoon baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
    • honey chipotle sauce

    Instructions

    • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly spray with cooking spray.
    • In a ziplock bag, add the wings. Add the baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper and shake to coat evenly. Place them on your prepared baking sheet.
    • Prepare your honey chipotle sauce.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until crispy and no longer pink.
    • Toss the wings in honey chipotle sauce and serve.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 275kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 94mg | Sodium: 382mg | Potassium: 348mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 0.01g | Vitamin A: 180IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Roasted Tomato Salsa (Salsa Tatemada)

    Roasted Tomato Salsa (Salsa Tatemada)

    Prepare for the best salsa of your life! This roasted tomato salsa is the best combination of smoky, sweet, and spicy! You’ll be hooked after one dip.

    There’s nothing I love snacking on more than chips and dip. And out of the bunch, salsa and guacamole are easily my favorites! Once you try this roasted tomato salsa, you’ve got to try out my classic guacamole, slow cooker salsa, and peach salsa too!

    Closeup of a chip being dipped in roasted tomato salsa.

    Salsa Tatemada Recipe

    I’m not exaggerating at all when I say that this is the BEST salsa that I have ever tried. This roasted tomato salsa recipe is inspired by the salsa tatemada made fresh at Flora Farms in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico. My team and I had the pleasure of visiting Flora Farms and learning all of the best techniques for making some truly knockout salsa! I’m going to share all of the best tips and tricks with you today! I know you’ll love the salsa you create just as much as we did! You really can’t go wrong with the smoky-sweet flavor of roasted tomato combined with onions, garlic, and jalapeno.

    Now, if you really want the full experience here you’re going to want to invest in a molcajete if you don’t already have one. A molcajete is a Mexican version of a mortar and pestle that is a game-changer for making salsa and guacamole. It’s made of volcanic rock which adds the best hint of earthy flavor to anything you make with it! If you don’t have a molcajete, you can also use a blender or food processor to make your roasted tomato salsa. But if you really want the best salsa on the block, using a molcajete is key.

    Ingredients for Roasted Tomato Salsa

    The chefs at Flora Farms used garden-fresh veggies to make this salsa taste as amazing as possible. So if you have any fresh tomatoes, peppers, onions, or garlic on hand, now’s the time to use them! The natural flavor of this salsa is what makes it so delicious. No need for a long list of seasonings and spices! If you’re looking for measurements, they can all be found in the recipe card at the end of the post!

    • Whole Tomatoes: I used Roma tomatoes here! They have a bright and tangy flavor that’s perfect in salsa.
    • White Onion: Adds a sweet but savory flavor to the salsa tatemada.
    • Garlic Cloves: You’ll want these to be whole and peeled. Garlic makes everything better! No salsa is complete without that strong, savory flavor.
    • Jalapeño: One whole jalapeño gets added to the salsa for (in my opinion) the perfect level of spice. If you want your salsa to be mild, make sure to omit the jalapeno seeds before adding the pepper to your molcajete. If you want more spice, see my tips section below on how to kick up the heat!
    • Cilantro: For fresh, minty flavor, adding chopped cilantro to your salsa is a must!
    • Salt and Pepper: Add both to taste. Taste testing is the best part about making homemade salsa!

    How to Cure Your Molcajete

    Before you use your molcajete, you need to cure it. This process can also be called “seasoning.” I like to use rice to cure mine! First, wash your molcajete out with water only. Then, add a handful of rice and grind into a paste or powder-like texture. Discard the rice and repeat this step as needed until there’s no grit in your rice powder. Rince again and allow your molcajete to dry. It’s now ready to use!

    *Note: You never want to use soap with your molcajete, since it’s porous. The little holes in the volcanic rock will trap the taste of soap which you don’t want in your roasted tomato salsa!

    How to Make Roasted Tomato Salsa

    Roasted tomato salsa is so easy to make, anyone can do it! It’s so fun to be able to customize the flavor of your salsa. You’re going to want to put it on everything! Try it on these tacos, tostadas, or drizzled on a burrito bowl! Honestly, though, my favorite way to enjoy this salsa tatemada is just with some homemade tortilla chips! It’s so addictive!

    1. Roast Vegetables: Heat a grill to medium-high heat. Place the whole tomatoes, onion, garlic cloves, and jalapeño on the hot grill. Turn frequently for 7-10 minutes until charred and softened.
    2. Cool: Remove the ingredients from the grill and allow to cool before making your salsa.
    3. Flavor Molcajete: Add the roasted onion and garlic to the cured molcajete first, and mash until smooth.
    4. Mash Vegetables: Next, remove the stem and deseed the jalapeño. Feel free to leave seeds if you like it on the spicy side. Add the jalapeño and roasted tomatoes and mash to your preferred texture. You can make it however chunky or smooth you like it. This process can also be done by pulsing in a blender until you reach your desired consistency.
    5. Season: After mashing, season to taste with salt and pepper, and stir in the chopped cilantro.
    6. Serve: This salsa is best served after it sits for a while so the flavors can marry, but you can enjoy it right away if you want!
    6-photo collage of vegetables being roasted then mashed in a molcajete.

    Tips and Variations

    Here are a few extra tips and tricks to get you making salsa tatemada like a pro! This has quickly become one of my family’s favorite snacks, and I know you and yours will love it too!

    • Add More Spice: The spice level of this salsa is totally customizable! If you want a little more spice, try adding a serrano pepper in addition to your jalapeno. If you want even more spice, add a habanero pepper!
    • The More Char, the Better: Don’t be afraid of char marks on your veggies! This will make them more flavorful.
    • Chopping Cilantro: When chopping your fresh cilantro, I like to roll it up like a little burrito and then dice. This way, you have more uniform pieces.
    • Extra Flavors: You can never go wrong with a little citrus! Adding fresh lime juice is a great addition to the flavor of this salsa.

    Closeup of salsa tatemada.

    Storing Leftovers

    Salsa tatemada is great for storing and enjoying later with your favorite chips! Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh and full of roasted tomato-y goodness!

    • In the Refrigerator: Store leftover salsa in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
    • In the Freezer: Store your salsa in a freezer bag for 3-4 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it!

    Roasted tomato salsa, garnished with chopped cilantro, in a molcajete.

    More Recipes Inspired by Mexican Cuisine

    I love all of the vibrant flavors that Mexican dishes have to offer! Here are a few of my favorites! They’re straightforward to make and will have the whole family wanting more. For more amazing Mexican-inspired meals, find my full list here!

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    Roasted Tomato Salsa

    Prepare for the best salsa of your life! This roasted tomato salsa is the best combination of smoky, sweet, and spicy! You’ll be hooked after one dip.
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine Mexican
    Keyword 15 minute, easy
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 5 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings 4
    Calories 18kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 4 large roma tomatoes, whole
    • 1/2 white onion, peeled
    • 2 whole garlic cloves, peeled
    • 1 whole jalapeño
    • 1/3 cup cilantro, chopped
    • salt and pepper, to taste

    Instructions

    • Heat a grill to medium high heat. Place the whole tomatoes, onion, garlic cloves, and jalapeño on the hot grill. Turn frequently for 7-10 minutes until charred and softened.
    • Remove the ingredients from the grill and allow to cool before making your salsa.
    • Add the roasted onion and garlic to the molcajete first, and mash until smooth.
    • Next, remove the stem and deseed the jalapeño. Feel free to leave seeds if you like it on the spicy side. Add the jalapeño and roasted tomatoes and mash to your preferred texture. You can make it however chunky or smooth you like it. This process can also be done by pulsing in a blender.
    • After mashing, season to taste with salt and pepper, and stir in the chopped cilantro.
    • This salsa is best served after it sits for a while so the flavors can marry, but you can enjoy it right away if you want!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 18kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.02g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 4mg | Potassium: 177mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 609IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 0.2mg
  • Spinach Dip

    Spinach Dip

    Spinach dip is a classic appetizer known for its creamy and comforting flavors. The combination of spinach, cheeses, and seasonings creates a delicious dip you’ll want to bring to all of your gatherings!

    This easy, crowd-pleasing dip is served warm and bubbly from the oven. I love serving a delicious warm dip because people gather around and can’t stop dipping! Trust me when I tell you to bring this homemade cheese dip, this popular chicken dip, or my favorite crab dip to your next party.

    Top view of spinach dip in a oval white baking dish. A striped dish towel, baguette, and baguette slices are garnished on the side. A baguette slice is dipped in the spinach dip.

    What Is Spinach Dip?

    Spinach is definitely the star of this spinach dip because it adds a delicious texture. But it’s the combination of cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese that take this dip to the next level! I love serving it with a sliced baguette, crackers, or vegetables for dipping.

    I love the many different ways I can use spinach in my recipes. Spinach has so many nutritional benefits, and I like to always have it on hand. Throw some spinach into your next smoothie for breakfast, your next salad for lunch, or enjoy this one-pot meal for dinner!

    Ingredients

    This spinach dip comes together easily in just minutes, and I love making it ahead of time before a party or a game. All of the ingredients you can have on hand and store until you are ready to make it. See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

    • Cream Cheese: Nothing says creamy and delicious like the addition of cream cheese!
    • Sour Cream: Sour cream adds a creamy texture to the dip.
    • Garlic: Flavorful garlic is a must in this tasty dip!
    • Onion Powder: I love using onion powder to season dishes without having to cut them and get teary over it!
    • Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella cheese melts perfectly in the oven.
    • Parmesan Cheese: I love the addition of salty parmesan cheese.
    • Spinach: Use frozen spinach that has been thawed and drained.
    • Kosher Salt: Salt helps season and bring out all the flavors in the dip.
    • Black Pepper: Pepper helps balance the salty flavors in the dip.

    Making Spinach Dip

    This spinach dip is quick to make and has SO MUCH FLAVOR! You need to make a double batch because it is that good! Follow the instructions and serve this directly from your baking dish.

    1. Prep: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 1-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
    2. Mix: In a medium-sized bowl, add the cream cheese and sour cream. Mix with a hand mixer and blend until smooth.
    3. Add Seasonings and Cheeses: Add the garlic, onion powder, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper. Fold in the spinach until combined.
    4. Bake: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until it is heated throughout and bubbly. 
    5. Serve: Serve warm with sliced bread, a baguette, or crackers.
    Four process photos of how to make spinach dip. First photo is the cream cheese and sour cream in a bowl. Second photo is the cheeses and seasonings added on top. Third photo is of the spinach draining in a strainer. Fourth photo is the spinach dip in the oval white baking dish.

    Tips and Variations

    This spinach dip recipe is always a favorite, and everyone can’t stop dipping as they are gathered around. Try using low-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter way of enjoying this appetizer.

    • Frozen Spinach: Thawing your spinach is best for this spinach dip. Thaw and remove as much water/liquid from the spinach. Squeeze the spinach in your hands or use a paper towel to squeeze it out. Frozen pieces of spinach will be long and stringy, but simply chop it up the best you can.
    • Fresh Spinach: You can use fresh spinach in this dip. Make sure to cook it before adding it to the mixture, and then chop it up into smaller pieces.
    • Mix-Ins: Add ¼ cup of crumbled bacon, marinated artichoke hearts, chopped mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. These all would be delicious additions to the spinach dip and add a yummy texture.
    • Cheese: Substitute the cheese for Monterey Jack or fontina cheese for different flavoring.
    • Slow Cooker: To keep this spinach dip warm, add it to a slow cooker on warm and stir it occasionally.

    A close up photo of the baked spinach dip and two baguette slices dipping into the dip.

    Leftover Spinach Dip

    Making spinach dip is so quick and easy to make and just as easy to store leftovers. It’s also great to make ahead and store until you’re ready to rewarm it.

    • In the Refrigerator: After baking the spinach dip, let it cool completely. Once it is cooled, tightly cover it with plastic wrap, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 2-3 days.
    • To Reheat: When you are ready to eat it again, There are a few ways to do it! You can warm it in the oven. Just add it to an oven-safe pan and reheat it until it is nice and bubbly hot. Your next option is to warm it in a slow cooker on a low or warm setting. You can also reheat over the stovetop on low. Just stir it occasionally until it is warm to the touch.

    A close up photo of the baked spinach dip and a baguette slice dipping into the dip showing the cheesy dip lifting out. The baking dish is on top of a striped kitchen towel.

    Try More Appetizer Dip Recipes

    Everyone loves dips so it’s a safe bet that if you bring one to a party, it will get eaten! I have rounded up a few more of my most popular dip recipes that are perfect for game day, holiday parties or really just any get togethers!

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    Spinach Dip

    Spinach dip is a classic appetizer known for its creamy and comforting flavors. The combination of spinach, cheeses, and seasonings creates a delicious dip you'll want to bring to all of your gatherings!
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine American
    Keyword easy, gluten free
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 15 minutes
    Total Time 25 minutes
    Servings 12
    Calories 163kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 8 ounce cream cheese, softened
    • 3/4 cup sour cream
    • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
    • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
    • 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and drained
    • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

    Instructions

    • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 1-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
    • In a medium-sized bowl add the cream cheese and sour cream. Mix with a hand mixer and blend until smooth.
    • Add the garlic, onion powder, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper. Fold in the spinach until combined.
    • Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until it is heated throughout and bubbly.
    • Serve warm with sliced bread, a baguette, or crackers.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 163kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 322mg | Potassium: 143mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 3242IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 211mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Peach Caprese Salad

    Peach Caprese Salad

    Elevate your classic Caprese salad by adding juicy peach! This fresh and fruity salad is the perfect addition to all of your summer meals.

    If you love peaches as much as I do, you’ll have to try some of my other favorite recipes! Try this fresh peach salsa, peach burrata salad, or grilled peaches next!

    Top-down view of sliced peaches, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on a gray plate, topped with balsamic drizzle.

    Fresh Peach Caprese Salad Recipe

    If I had to choose one salad to have for the rest of my life, it would probably be Caprese. It’s so simple but fresh and bursting with incredible flavor. I really didn’t think there was a way it could get any better until I tried this version that adds in sliced peaches! With peaches being in season right now in Utah, I thought it was the best time to try out this combination! One bite in, I was obsessed.

    This Caprese salad checks all of the boxes. It’s creamy, savory, tangy, and sweet, too, with the addition of fresh peaches! Peach Caprese salad is a perfect appetizer or light lunch for hot summer days. This is a great way to use up that box of peaches and will have everyone hooked! If you need more delicious peach recipes in your life, find my full list here.

    Ingredients for Peach Caprese Salad

    This peach Caprese salad recipe uses super simple ingredients, so it’s important that they’re all as fresh (or high quality) as possible! Check out the recipe card at the end of the post for exact measurements.

    • Peaches: This recipe is best made with fresh peaches!
    • Tomatoes: I used 4 ripe, medium-sized tomatoes. Since fresh tomatoes are such an important part of Caprese salads, see my tips section below on picking the best of the bunch! Even better, use garden-fresh tomatoes if you have them!
    • Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Use high-quality mozzarella for the best flavor. You can also use burrata!
    • Olive Oil: You want your olive oil to be as flavorful as possible, so I recommend using cold-pressed or extra virgin olive oil.
    • Balsamic Vinegar: You can add balsamic vinegar as-is, or make it into a balsamic reduction for a more glaze-like texture. See my tips section below for more info on making a balsamic reduction!
    • Flaked Sea Salt: I love the texture that flaky salt adds to this salad.
    • Fresh Basil Leaves: Fresh basil is a must-add for that signature fresh, minty flavor of Caprese.

    How to Make Caprese Salad With Peaches

    You’re going to love this fun and fruity twist on a traditional Caprese salad. It’s super easy to prepare, too, which makes it the perfect summer side dish!

    1. Prepare Peach: First, cut your peach into wedges.
    2. Cut Tomatoes: Slice tomatoes ¼ inch thick.
    3. Slice Mozzarella: Next, slice the cheese ¼ inch thick.
    4. Layer: Layer the tomatoes and cheese on a plate.
    5. Add Toppings: Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Top with flaked sea salt and fresh basil.
    3-photo collage of peach Caprese salad ingredients being prepared.

    Tips For Making the Best Salad

    From picking the best produce to making a tasty balsamic reduction, here are a few easy ways to upgrade your peach Caprese salad! You’re going to absolutely love it.

    • Picking Peaches: Make sure when you’re picking out peaches, they’re large, slightly firm, and free of bruises and blemishes. I like buying my fruit from farmer’s markets for the best flavor and juiciness.
    • Picking Tomatoes: The perfect tomato will feel heavy, be deep red in color, and free of bruises or blemishes. I always go for heirloom tomatoes because they’re great this time of year!
    • Making a Balsamic Reduction: If you want your balsamic drizzle to be on the thicker side, try making a balsamic reduction! Simply add your balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat until some liquid evaporates. The thick, glossy texture of a balsamic reduction helps it to coat your fruit, veggies, and cheese perfectly.

    How Long Will My Salad Last?

    I recommend eating your peach Caprese salad within 24 hours while all of the ingredients are fresh. The salt added to the tomatoes and peaches will draw out liquid and over time make your salad soggy.

    • In the Refrigerator: Store your peach Caprese salad in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.

    Closeup of peach Caprese salad.

    More Amazing Peach Recipes for Summer

    Take advantage of peaches being in season with these other easy and delicious recipes! They’re sweet, juicy, and sure to please! Looking for more tasty peach recipes? Find my full list here.

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    Peach Caprese Salad

    Elevate your classic Caprese salad by adding juicy peach! This fresh and fruity salad is the perfect addition to all of your summer meals.
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine Italian American
    Keyword peach caprese salad recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 10 minutes
    Servings 4
    Calories 387kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 1 Large Ripe Peach
    • 4 medium ripe tomatoes
    • 1 pound fresh mozzarella
    • 1 teaspoon olive oil
    • balsamic glaze
    • flaked sea salt
    • fresh basil

    Instructions

    • Slice your peach. Slice tomatoes ¼ inch thick. Slice the cheese ¼ inch thick. Layer the tomatoes and cheese on a plate. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Top with flaked sea salt and fresh basil.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 387kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 722mg | Potassium: 423mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1913IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 586mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Caprese Flatbread

    Caprese Flatbread

    Light and fresh, this Caprese flatbread is the perfect appetizer for any Italian-inspired meal! It’s topped with melty mozzarella, fresh herbs and veggies, and topped off with a mouthwatering balsamic glaze!

    The simple but delicious flavor combination of Caprese is one of my favorites. If you’re a fan like me, this Caprese pasta salad, baked Caprese chicken, or Caprese skewers need to be added to your dinner lineup.

    Top-down view of sliced caprese flatbread on parchment paper.

    Caprese Flatbread With Balsamic Drizzle

    Caprese dishes are the best. The melty goodness of mozzarella, sweet acidity of tomato, and tangy balsamic glaze is the ultimate flavor combination. I’ve got quite a few Caprese dishes on the blog to date (with this classic Caprese salad and Caprese casserole being some of my all-time favorites!) but this amazing Caprese flatbread recipe is quickly rising to the top! It’s easy to see why! It’s simple but such a crowd-pleaser. Everyone will want a slice.

    Really, I love this Caprese flatbread recipe because it only takes a few minutes to prepare. All it needs is a drizzle of balsamic glaze once it comes out of the oven and then it’s ready to serve! It looks just as good as it tastes. It’s going to fly off the table at your next get-together! You won’t be able to resist a piece of cheesy, flavorful goodness.

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    The essential components of a Caprese dish are tomatoes, mozzarella, fresh basil, and balsamic vinegar for drizzling on top. Because this recipe is so simple, it’s important to use the highest quality ingredients you can! This will take the flavor of your flatbread to the next level. Measurements for each ingredient can be found below in the recipe card.

    • Flatbread: I used store-bought for easy prep!
    • Olive Oil: Brush this on top of your flatbread to soften it up and add extra flavor.
    • Minced Garlic: Adds a delicious layer of savory flavor.
    • Mozzarella Cheese: A must-add for that classic Caprese flavor! You can use slice your mozzarella or tear it into pieces.
    • Cherry Tomatoes: Add delicious sweetness and acidity.
    • Italian Seasoning: This is my favorite blend of herbs! It adds the best flavor. You can buy this premade or make your own batch using my recipe here.
    • Salt and Pepper: Sprinkle both on top to enhance the overall flavor of your Caprese flatbread.
    • Fresh Basil Leaves: Add bright, minty flavor throughout this dish.
    • Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar brings all of the flavors together!

    How to Make Caprese Flatbread

    Making this delicious Caprese flatbread only requires a few simple steps of layering, then it’s off to the oven! It only takes 15 minutes from start to finish! It’s one of my favorite recipes to whip up last minute for summer potlucks.

    1. Preheat Oven: First, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
    2. Prep Pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and place the flatbread on the prepared pan.
    3. Brush on Olive Oil: Brush the olive oil on the flatbread. Make sure to cover the entire flatbread by brushing the olive oil all the way out to the edges.
    4. Add Minced Garlic: Evenly spread minced garlic over the olive oil.
    5. Layer With Mozzarella: Next, top the flatbread with fresh mozzarella that has been torn or sliced.
    6. Top With Tomatoes: Layer on the halved grape tomatoes, and sprinkle on the Italian seasonings.
    7. Bake: Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the crust start to get dark golden brown.
    8. Broil: Feel free to broil for 1-2 minutes additional minutes if you want to crisp up the flatbread. Just be careful to watch it closely.
    9. Add Basil and Seasonings: Top the pizza with fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Enjoy!

    Tips and Variations

    There are a lot of ways to switch up this quick and easy recipe, but here are a few of my favorites!

    • Balsamic Reduction: If you want your glaze to be a little thicker than balsamic vinegar, try making a balsamic reduction! All you have to do is simmer balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until excess liquid evaporates and it thickens.
    • Switch Out Crust: Instead of using store-bought flatbread, you can also use naan or pizza dough that has been rolled thin and cooked.
    • Add Pesto: For extra flavor, try spreading some pesto over your flatbread before adding the rest of your toppings! It’s earthy and delicious.

    A full caprese flatbread on parchment paper.

    Storing Leftovers

    Flatbread pizzas make the best leftovers! It’s the perfect thing to heat up for lunch. Here’s how to keep your Caprese flatbread tasting fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

    • In the Refrigerator: Store leftover flatbread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
    • Reheating: To keep the crust crispy, I like to warm leftover Caprese flatbread in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Closeup of a slice of caprese flatbread.

    More Caprese Recipes

    Can’t get enough Caprese? Neither can I! Here are a few more quick and easy recipes filled with all of the amazing Caprese flavors you love! They’re light and fresh but so incredibly satisfying. The whole family will be asking for more!

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    Caprese Flatbread

    Light and fresh, this Caprese flatbread is the perfect appetizer for any Italian-inspired meal! It’s topped with melty mozzarella, fresh herbs and veggies, and topped off with a mouthwatering balsamic glaze!
    Course Appetizer, Dinner
    Cuisine American
    Keyword 15 minute, easy
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 15 minutes
    Servings 4
    Calories 153kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 1 flatbread, store-bought
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
    • 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or torn
    • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasonings
    • salt and pepper, to taste
    • fresh basil leaves
    • 2 teaspoon balsamic glaze, for serving

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and place the flatbread on the prepared pan.
    • Brush the olive oil on the flatbread. Make sure to cover the entire flatbread by brushing the olive oil all the way out to the edges.
    • Evenly spread minced garlic over the olive oil.
    • Next, top the flatbread with fresh mozzarella that has been torn or sliced.
    • Layer on the halved grape tomatoes, and sprinkle on the Italian seasonings.
    • Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the crust start to get dark golden brown.
    • Feel free to broil for 1-2 minutes additional minutes if you want to crisp up the flatbread. Just be careful to watch it closely.
    • Top the pizza with fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 153kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 22mg | Sodium: 234mg | Potassium: 83mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 291IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 163mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

    Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

    If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious way to use up your summer zucchini, making chips in the air fryer is the answer! They’re low-carb, seasoned to perfection, and perfectly golden and crispy!

    Zucchini is one of my favorite summer veggies because of how insanely versatile it is. You can use it in so many different recipes and it slices the carbs in half! If you’re looking for recipes to fit into a low-carb or ketogenic diet, it’s the vegetable for you. You can make anything from lasagna to pizza, casserole to fries! For more unique ways to use up the rest of your summer zucchini crop, find my full list of recipes here.

    Top-down view of air-fried zucchini chips in a white bowl.

    Keto Zucchini Chips in the Air Fryer

    It’s no secret that zucchini is one of my all-time favorite veggies. Even though I already have so many different zucchini recipes up on the blog, I’m always looking for more to add to the collection! Air fryer zucchini chips are my new favorite addition to the list and are sure to win you over. They’re just too good! These zucchini chips are everything you could want from a snack- golden, crispy, and tossed in delicious seasonings.

    The best part about this recipe is that you can enjoy your chips without any guilt! They’re super low-carb and work great for keto diets. Combined with how absolutely delicious they are, you won’t want chips any other way. Serve them up with a BLT for the perfect summer lunch! Your family is going to love having these around to munch on! They’re the best way to use up all of that leftover zucchini.

    Only 4 Simple Ingredients to Make Them

    This is one of my favorite ways to use up leftover zucchini because you only need a couple extra ingredients to bring it together! They’re all things that you can find in your pantry. See my tips section below for more ways you can customize the flavor of your zucchini chips!

    • Zucchini: I used medium zucchini here for the perfect sized chips! Pick zucchini that is dark green and free of blemishes.
    • Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives these chips the best flavor.
    • Paprika: Adds a touch of warm, smoky spice!
    • Salt and Pepper: Enhance the overall flavor of your batch of zucchini chips!

    How to Make Zucchini Chips in an Air Fryer

    Air fryer zucchini chips is such an easy recipe to make, especially if you use a mandolin to slice your zucchini! These tasty, healthy chips are ready for your family to snack on in less than 15 minutes!

    1. Prepare Zucchini: Start by slicing your zucchini ⅛ inch thick with a mandolin. Pat to dry excess moisture with a paper towel.
    2. Add Seasonings: In a medium-sized bowl add the zucchini, olive oil, paprika, and salt and pepper.
    3. Add to Air Fryer Basket: Lay the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
    4. Cook: Cook at 350 degrees for 4-5 minutes. Flip the chips and fry for an additional 2-3 minutes. Check the chips frequently to make sure that they don’t burn.
    3-photo collage of a zucchini being cut into thin slices, seasoned, and then added to an air fryer basket.

    Tips for Making Perfect Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

    Here are a couple more things to keep in mind as you make your delicious air fried zucchini chips. You can easily tweak the flavor to your liking. Each batch will turn out so perfectly, you’re going to love them!

    • Use a Mandoline: Using a mandoline slicer will make your life so much easier! It gives you thin, even zucchini slices every time.
    • Don’t Overcrowd Air Fryer: Only cook a small batch of these chips at a time. Air flow is crucial for them to cook through properly. If there’s not enough space between each chip, they may end up soggy instead of crispy and golden.
    • Switch Up Flavor: Feel free to customize these zucchini chips with all of your favorite seasonings and spices! A few fun ideas to try are lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, ranch dressing mix, or even just a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and garlic powder!

    Cooked zucchini chips in the bottom of an air fryer basket.

    Storing Leftover Chips

    Because these zucchini chips are so easy to whip up, sometimes my eyes are bigger than my stomach when I make a batch. Good news is, you can easily store them and snack on them later!

    • At Room Temperature: Store any leftover chips in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

    A zucchini chip being picked up out of a small white bowl.

    More Air Fryer Zucchini Recipes

    Combine the versatility of zucchini and the ease of using an air fryer with these other tasty recipes! They all have the most amazing flavor and work as both an appetizer and a side dish! If you’re anything like me and have more zucchini on hand than you know what to do with, these are great ways to use it up!

    Print

    Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

    If you're looking for a healthy and delicious way to use up your summer zucchini, making chips in the air fryer is the answer! They're low-carb, seasoned to perfection, and perfectly golden and crispy!
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Keyword air fryer zucchini chips recipe, air fryer zucchini recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Cook Time 8 minutes
    Total Time 13 minutes
    Servings 4
    Calories 56kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 3 medium sized zucchini
    • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
    • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
    • salt and pepper

    Instructions

    • Start by slicing your zucchini ⅛ inch thick with a mandolin. Pat to dry with a paper towel.
    • In a medium sized bowl add the zucchini, olive oil, paprika, and salt and pepper.
    • Lay the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
    • Cook at 350 degrees for 4-5 minutes. Flip the chips and fry for an additional 2-3 minutes. Check the chips frequently to make sure that they don’t burn.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 56kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 12mg | Potassium: 387mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 356IU | Vitamin C: 26mg | Calcium: 24mg | Iron: 1mg
  • Baked Avocado Fries

    Baked Avocado Fries

    Crispy-baked avocado fries are coated in seasoning and a crunchy garlic panko crust and then baked to crispy perfection! These are so delicious and easy to make that you will want to pair them with every meal!

    I loved these crispy baked avocado fries. In fact, cooking up veggies this way is a family favorite! Try these baked zucchini fries, these baked jicama fries, or this delicious cheesy baked asparagus!

    A round platter with baked avocado fries and a small bowl filled with avocado ranch.

    What is Baked Avocado Fries?

    I was at a conference with a friend in Chicago, and we spotted avocado fries on the menu. Baked avocado fries!? I love everything that has to do with avocado and couldn’t wait to try these out for myself. These had a crispy coating on the outside, and the inside was still rich and creamy. Then you take them over the top and dip them in a delicious sauce. They make a great appetizer or are the perfect side to your next meal!

    Not only are avocado fries more unique than regular French fries, but they are also much healthier too! And I can’t resist avocado or French fries, so this recipe combines the best of both worlds! Try these out with a delicious burger, and you will soon be making these all the time at the request of your family!

    Ingredients in Baked Avocado Fries

    Lucky for you, this recipe is so simple and only requires a few ingredients. But don’t let this short ingredients list fool you. These sure pack a punch when it comes to delicious flavor! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

    • Avocados: If they are slightly firm, they will hold up better for this recipe!
    • Eggs: I always like to use large eggs whenever I am cooking in the kitchen.
    • Flour: All-purpose flour works great in this recipe!
    • Panko Breadcrumbs: I LOVE the texture that panko breadcrumbs add to the creamy avocado. It’s such a stark contrast!
    • Italian Seasoning: You can use store-bought seasoning or make some with my recipe at home!
    • Garlic Powder: This brings in that delicious garlic flavor that goes so well with the other seasonings.
    • Salt: The salt will enhance all of the flavors in these baked avocado fries.
    Sliced avocados.

    How to Make Baked Avocado Fries

    You start by taking out the pit of the avocado and then cutting your avocado into fries. Cut the avocado slices in half and half again and make them the exact thickness that you want your fries to be. You’re going to go crazy over this delicious snack!

    1. Prep and dredge: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Lightly grease a baking sheet and set it aside. Slice the avocados in half lengthwise and then cut into wedges. In a shallow dish, add the eggs. In another bowl add the flour, and in the last dish, add the panko, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.
    2. Dip: Dip the avocado into the flour, then the egg, and lastly in the panko. Lay onto your greased baking sheet.
    3. Cook: Spray the avocado with cooking spray and bake for 12-14 minutes until crispy. Serve with honey chipotle dip if desired.
    4 pictures showing how to dredge avocados and coat them with breadcrumbs.

    The Keys to Crispy Fries

    If you want these baked avocado fries to have the best texture (crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside) then follow these tips!

    • Underripe Avocados: This is a great way to be able to use up underripe avocados. They aren’t too delicate for fry making and hold up while you are dredging them in the flour, egg, and panko mixture. Even though these are a little hard and underripe, they are able to soften in the oven while baking. They come out of the oven tender and creamy and have such amazing overall flavor!
    • Cooking Spray: Spray the panko with cooking spray after you coat the avocado. This will help to give the avocado fries a crispy brown coating.
    • Don’t forget to flip! Flip the fries halfway through. This gets all sides to be brown and crisp.

    An avocado fry being dipped into some avocado ranch.

    Dipping Sauce

    Fries are only as good as the sauce that you dip them in, right? Well, these baked avocado fries are actually amazingly delicious all by themselves but… I can’t resist a good sauce! Here are some ideas to try!

    • Creamy Honey Chipotle Dip
    • Ranch
    • Chipotle Ketchup
    • Cilantro Lime Ranch
    • Spicy Mayo

    More Avocado Recipes to Try

    Avocados are so good and versatile! There are so many different ways to cook them up. Use them as a side, in a sadae, as a salsa or to garnish a main dish! Here are some delicious ideas for you to try!

    Print

    Baked Crispy Garlic Avocado Fries

    Crispy-baked avocado fries are coated in seasoning and a crunchy garlic panko crust and then baked to crispy perfection! These are so delicious and easy to make that you will want to pair them with every meal! 
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Keyword avocado fries, baked fries
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 12 minutes
    Total Time 22 minutes
    Servings 24
    Calories 91kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    • 4 avocados slightly firm
    • 3 eggs
    • 1 cup flour
    • 1 cup panko
    • 1 Tablespoon Italian Seasoning
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon salt

    Instructions

    • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Lightly grease a baking sheet and set it aside. Slice the avocados in half lengthwise and then cut into wedges. In a shallow dish, add the eggs. In another dish, add the flour, and in the last dish, adds the panko, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.
    • Dip the avocado into the flour, then the egg, and lastly in the panko. Lay onto your greased baking sheet.
    • Spray the avocado with cooking spray and bake for 12-14 minutes until crispy. Serve with honey chipotle dip if desired.

    Notes

    Originally Posted on April 22, 2018

    Updated on August 9, 2022

    Nutrition

    Calories: 91kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.002g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 126mg | Potassium: 185mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 82IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg