Appetizers!

Taste of Home kicked off with a great start on Tuesday, September 9 at April's house. She chose to host appetizers - a fitting theme for our inaugural gathering. Thanks to everyone for coming out to support and for sharing such delicious appetizer recipes!

Ritz 'Bruschetta'

Recipe submitted by Melissa S.
1 cup chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup reduced fat shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 Tbsp reduced fat zesty Italian dressing
36 Ritz crackers (or toasted bread)
2 Tbsp shredded Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 400' F. Mix tomatoes, mozzarella, onions and dressing together. Spoon 2 tsp of the mixture onto each cracker and sprinkle with Parmesan. Place on baking sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve warm.

Spinach Dip

Recipe submitted by Danelle L.
16 oz Fat Free sour cream (can substitute FF cottage cheese)
1/2 cup light mayonnaise
1 pkg Knorrs vegetable soup mix
16 oz bag fresh spinach
2 green onions, chopped (optional)

Mix all ingredients together an chill for at least 3 hours. Serve with pieced french bread or crackers.

Cheese Puffs

Recipe submitted by Paige G.
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 cups grated cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp paprika
Dash cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup flour

Blend butter, cheese, salt, paprika and cayenne pepper. Stir in flour. Roll into roughly 30 balls and put onto baking sheet about two inches apart. Bake at 400' F for 10-15 minutes. Serve hot.

Yummy Pineapple Dip

Recipe submitted by Paula E.
2 (8 oz) pkgs cream cheese, room temperature
1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
3/4 cup powdered sugar

Mix all ingredients together and serve with potato chips. *Also tastes great on fresh fruit!