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Simple Appetizers That Are Perfect For Summer

Expert Author KC Kudra

Summertime is one of the best times of the year for many reasons and the chance to enjoy a variety of delicious, refreshing foods is definitely one of them. Summer is also a time full of parties and outdoor celebrations of all types and appetizers make for the perfect addition to any menu.

For birthdays, graduations, family picnics, or backyard barbecues with friends, summer appetizer recipes can help to make your party complete. Look for recipes that are simple to prepare and include a wide variety of foods that will keep well outside until everyone has a chance to sample all of the appetizers.

Spring and summer dining, especially outdoors, call for fresh foods with light and airy textures. You will find crispy vegetables, tangy fruits and a combination of flavors, spices, and seasonings in recipes for appetizers that are great for warmer weather. When planning your menu, consider where the event will be taking place, the guest list, and how you will keep foods cold and fresh.

For a spicy, Mexican inspired appetizer, make your own dip to use with tortilla chips or pieces of raw vegetables. Combine a can of chipotle chilies, finely chopped tomatoes, minced red onion, a few dashes of lime juice, and chopped cilantro to taste in a medium sized bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least at hour before serving.

Another delicious dip to consider for your summer gathering is bacon and tomato dip that can be served with toasted bread, crackers, pita bread, or tortilla chips.

Brown a pound of bacon and allow the grease to drip from the cooked strips onto paper towels. Chop the bacon in a food processor or finely chop by hand and blend in with one chopped tomato, a 32-ounce jar of mayonnaise, and a 32-ounce container of sour cream. Add a few seasonings such as salt and pepper to taste along with a half teaspoon of garlic powder and mix well before serving.

Recipe for Cheesy Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes

What You Need

  • 1 pint container of cherry tomatoes
  • 4 ounces of your favorite cheese
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper

How to Make it

To prepare the tomatoes, cut a thin slice off the top of each one then scoop out the inside pulp and discard.

Put the tomatoes upside down on a few paper towels to dry while combining the cheese and onions together. Next, spoon the cheese mixture into the tomatoes.

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and seasonings together using a whisk. Spoon the olive oil mixture over top of the tomatoes and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until ready to serve.

Some of the different types of cheese you may want to try include crumbled feta, sharp cheddar, Colby, bleu, and pepper jack cheese. Experiment with different types and combinations of cheeses for new, tasty creations.

About this Author

Easy party appetizers are perfect for any type of gathering or anytime you want a tasty treat. For the warmer months, choose summer appetizer recipes with fresh ingredients that are easy to prepare and serve.

EasyAppetizerRecipes.net - You Make the Appetizers, We Help You Make Them Delicious

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