East Tennessee Caviar Dip

When the kids were young we used to vacation at the beach with my college roommate Diane Stultz Hall and her four children. One of the challenges when you have 7 children eating chips and dip is to get them … Continue reading

Tortellini Skewers with Pesto Vinaigrette

Tortellini Skewers with Pesto Vinaigrette Makes approximately 50 skewers 20 ounces multi colored cheese tortellini2 pints grape tomatoes2 tablespoons jarred pesto2 and 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard1 tablespoon olive oil50 bamboo skewers  Cook tortellini according to package directions. … Continue reading

Carrot and Cucumber Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce

In the sweltering heat of July it is nice to take a cold appetizer to a party or picnic. Sometimes it is just too hot to eat anything heavy and these spring rolls are cold and refreshing. My daughter, Lindsey, … Continue reading

Grilled Peaches with Toasted Pecans, Goat Cheese, and Honey

Grilled peaches are the perfect side dish for grilled meat, pork or chicken adding just a touch of sweetness. They can also be served as an appetizer. I love that you can make something that looks and tastes spectacular in … Continue reading

Napa Valley Deviled Eggs

Napa Valley Deviled Eggs 6 hard-boiled eggs4 tablespoons full fat mayonnaise1 teaspoon Dijon mustard⅛ teaspoon kosher salt1 ½ tablespoons drained sweet pickle relish2 tablespoons celery, ¼-inch dice Place 6 eggs in a single layer in a large stockpot. Add 2 … Continue reading

Marinated Shrimp with Cocktail Sauce and Old Bay Crackers

My daughter called me with a crisis.  It rained where she lives in Oakland California (it hardly ever rains there) and ants, which decided to move in to avoid the wet weather, had invaded her. Now when I say “invasion” I’m … Continue reading

Lana’s Jalapeño Popper Dip

Jalapeno Popper Dip is a huge hit in West Tennessee. The recipe comes from my super talented friend, Lana Robison, who lives in Bartlett, Tennessee. Lana says it tastes like restaurant jalapeno poppers but you don’t have to stuff, bread … Continue reading