Getting a delicious appetizer on the table is effortless with these quick recipes.
These tomato-mozzarella-basil skewers are easy to assemble and perfect for a party.
Medium-size scallops and bacon cut on the thinner side work best here.

Photographer / Jen Causey, Food Stylist / Emily Nabors Hall
Avocado-Yogurt Dip
patch your guacamole recipe by adding protein-packed yogurt to make a healthy dip recipe.
For an extra kick, add minced jalapeno or your favorite hot sauce for some zing!
Simply layer each ingredient on top of the other and secure with a toothpick for an easy bite-size starter.

Photographer / Jen Causey, Food Stylist / Emily Nabors Hall
Lemon-Garlic Marinated Shrimp
Marinating precooked shrimp in garlic- and lemon-infused oil is a simple yet elegant appetizer.
Serve it with pita chips and crunchy vegetables or spread it on a sandwich.
Serve with veggie chips, pita chips or crudites.

Photographer / Jen Causey, Food Stylist / Emily Nabors Hall
Cream cheese tempers the just-right hint of heat from the pepper and Buffalo sauce.
To save time, you could stuff the peppers ahead of the party and fry them just before serving.
It’s cooked and served all in the same skillet, cutting down on dishes.

Serve it with crackers, toasted bread or fresh-cut veggies.

Jamie Vespa, M.S., R.D.





Photography / Caitlin Bensel, Food Styling / Ruth Blackburn