Gambas al Ajillo

It has been such a long time since I posted a recipe.  I thought with the little one in Kinder I would have a little bit more time.  The Mr. and I were able to take a little break and go to one of our favorite places.  There we experienced some amazing dishes and I wanted to try and recreate one of them.  Though it wasn't exactly the same it was definitely a starting point.  Indulge!

Cucumber Cups with California Crab

This is another wonderful filling to use with the refreshing Cucumber Cups.  I LOVE all things sushi and thought how amazing would it be to recreate the California roll into this appetizer, minus the rice.  Indulge!

Cucumber Cups with Smoked Salmon Mousse

Summer is officially about to end and one of my favorite appetizers to serve over the summer was Cucumber Cups.  This is such a refreshing appetizer with endless possibilities of fillings.  I had some left over smoked salmon and that it would pair beautifully with the cucumber.  If you don't like cucumber you could easily pipe this on the cracker of your choice.  Indulge!

                                                       Photo courtesy of Maggie Filla

Fried Ravioli

I have been wanting to try this recipe ever since I came across it.  I wanted to incorporate a new appetizer in and thought this would be perfect, even the kids would dig it.  I adapted it from Giada De Laurentiis recipe, the only thing I changed was the sauce.  I didn't have marinara on hand, so I took a jar of my favorite pasta sauce and through it in the blender along with some parmesan cheese and red chili flakes for an added richness and spice.  I'm so glad I nibbled on a couple before serving, I am pretty sure the kids swallowed them whole, they were gone so fast. Indulge!

Chunky Roasted Tomato Salsa

This is such a quick and simple recipe for refreshing salsa.  I can honestly say you will always find this in my refrigerator.  It’s not just for chips; I eat it on everything, whether it’s over steamed veggies, fish and even pasta.  This salsa is so versatile too.  If you don’t care for fire roasted use plain or even fresh tomatoes, just roast them under the broiler until the skin is slightly charred (also you can roast the chilies and garlic), peel and chop.  The possibilities are endless.

Crab & Shrimp Cakes with Red Bell Pepper & Cilantro Cream Sauce

This dish is probably one of the first that I was proud enough of myself to actually photograph.  I am a huge fan of Blue Mesa Grill in Dallas, but can't get back home enough to get my fix so I thought I would try and recreate one of my favorites.  I LOVE crab cakes and had tried many recipes before this one and after tinkering with it- loved the result.