These Salmon Cakes are a family favorite for us and probably get made every two weeks in the summer. The girls love it so much that I’ve had to start making a double batch! A light salmon cake that works well as a main or…

Every family and region in Italy have their own best version of Bruschetta. Most familiar to us contains, tomatoes, onion, basil and garlic. Some areas in Italy serve only with olive oil and garlic, while others serve with cured meats. This recipe has evolved over…

  Tequila and shrimp just seem to go together, whether as appetizers, part of a main course or the taco bar. They are super quick to make. They still taste really nice if you leave the Tequila out when serving to the kids. Soaking the…

  These meatballs have evolved over time, looking for a summer light tasting meatball to accompany Greek meze style meals. Meze or mezze means small dishes and often include Hummus, Tzatziki, Olives, Souvlaki, and Grilled Haloumi cheese. Great as a meal, appetizer, or perfect for…

The Middle Eastern dip, Hummus, is usually served at room temperature with pita and is a popular part of the “meze.”  A selection of small dishes, showing up as part of multi course meal or as an appetizer. Hummus has been around in some form…

This Tzatziki is well worth the effort. The ever-present Greek accompaniment with Souvlaki, Greek Style Meatballs, Greek Salad and Hummus. Start at least 3 hours before you want to serve it or prepare the day before. Wonderful as a dip for vegetables or with Greek…

Pico de Gallo is a traditional dish and staple in Latin homes and restaurants around the world.  It’s eaten alone or as a topping for countless Mexican dishes.  Authentic Pico must have tomatoes, green peppers, onions, cilantro and lime. Serve with Fajitas, Loaded Nachos, Carne Asada Fries,…

  I love this retro dish. The girls love shrimp, so this is an easy start to a meal or alongside Simple Tomato Sauce. In North America shrimp scampi means shrimp cooked in garlic butter. In Italy scampi is more like a lobster. Everyone has…

  This is but one of the many Margarita’s they serve at the Hacienda, a Mexican restaurant at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort, Arizona. This one promptly became Mike’s favorite. This is as close a copy as Mike can get, without traveling back. Use Anejo…

  I’ve been making this appetizer for years. It’s really good before a Greek meal. Adapted from Epicurious.com – Gourmet June 2007. Halloumi cheese has a high melting point so it’s great for grilling or broiling. The outside gets beautifully brown and when you bite…