Favorite Apps

I'm talking about appetizers, of course!  Appetizers are the kick off to your main dishes.  Here are just a couple to start you off.

Caprese Skewers - Easy to assemble with fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes and basil leaves.  Add some Italian bread toasted with a drizzling of extra virgin olive oil.  Add a small bowl of balsamic vinegar for dipping.

Image from barefootcontessa.com
Photo by Melanie Acevedo

Roasted Eggplant Spread - This easy recipe from Ina Garten is delicious spread on top of toasted pita bread slices.

Recipe by Ina Garten:

1 medium eggplant, peeled
2 red bell peppers, seeded
1 red onion, peeled
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp good olive oil
1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper
1 tbsp tomato paste

Method:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Cut the eggplant, bell pepper and onion into 1 inch cubes.  Toss them in a large bowl with the garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.  Spread them on a baking sheet.  Roast for 45 minutes, until the vegetables are lightly browned and soft, tossing once during cooking. Cool slightly.
Place the vegetables in a food processor fitted with a steel blade, add the tomato paste, and pulse 3 or 4 times to blend.  Taste for salt and pepper.

More app ideas to come!