Appetizer Ideas for Summer
We’re back to our cocktail hour time of year, and that my friends calls for some small bites and appetizers to keep our family and friends well-fed and content as they sip a glass of rose wine or a mock-tail of their choice. Here are a few of our favorite quick and simple ideas for spring and summer appetizers!
Butternut Squash Hummus — Packing flavor and hearty taste from both roasted and fresh garlic, lemon juice, parsley, smoky cumin, paprika, and a pinch of Everything Spiced Middle Eastern Spice Blend. Squash is a summer staple, and this hummus lasts for at least 10 days. Yes, you heard that right! You can require your family and friends to eat veggie-based dip for up to ten whole days at a time!
Oven Baked Zucchini Chips — Zucchini is a summer staple, and can be used for everything from zoodles (zucchini noodles) to “boats” for holding Italian themed alternatives. But our FAVORITE way to use Zucchini in the summer is to create thin, crispy, delicious chips. Keep in mind you must use paper towel to press out the extra liquid! Use Everything Spiced Veggie All-Rounder to take it up a notch and really coat the veggies with flavor.
Chili Lime Cajun Shrimp Cups — This is a simplistic recipe anyone with an oven can make. Simply toss with olive oil, the zest of one lime, chili powder, Everything Spiced Cajun Spice Blend, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Then bake in the oven until cooked through for a delectable summertime handheld snack.
Cured Salmon with Ranch Horseradish Cream — One of my favorite lunch or brunch dishes always revolves around salmon and some sort of cream cheese. This idea is no different! Add Kosher salt, lemon zest, orange zest and a bit of granulated sugar, combined with the unique flavors of Everything Spiced Ranch Spice Blend, and the tang of horseradish.
Lump Crab Mornay — This lump crap is what north eastern dreams are made of! Crab and football, am I right?! This is an easy twenty-minute dish that can be elevated by using Everything Spiced Fish All-Rounder, alongside salt, red pepper and parsley.
Whether you’re hosting at home or doing a virtual happy hour these days, you can always send out a drink and ingredient list to your guests to ensure you have something they will enjoy. During these virtual meeting times, everyone can prep the same dish and share it via Zoom or Skype, and discuss what style and spices of their own flair came out in the recipes. No matter where you are or who you’re with, you can create an authentic connection through the foods you share.
