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Pumpkin apple spiced mule prepared in a copper mug, garnished with a cinnamon stick, a slice of green apple, and a sprig of rosemary
Pumpkin Apple Spice Mule DrinksFall FavsHalloweenHappy HourThanksgiving
October 14, 2024

Pumpkin Apple Spice Mule

This pumpkin apple spice mule is a perfect signature cocktail for fall festivities.  We have been serving it for our annual pre-trick or treat party for several years, and it is always a hit.  Initially, I was looking for inspiration for a fun party drink when I came across the Pumpkin Spice Vodka by Pinnacle.  Combining this seasonal flavored vodka with apple cider, ginger beer, and nutmeg results in a…
Fig Prosciutto Goat Cheese pizza prepared on a wood board ready for serving
Fig Prosciutto Goat Cheese Pizza AppetizersBrunchDinnerHappy HourLunchNew Years EvePorkValentines
July 11, 2024

Fig Prosciutto Goat Cheese Pizza

If you love a sweet and salty flavor combination, this fig prosciutto goat cheese pizza is for you. This easy recipe is great for an appetizer shared with friends or for a light meal.  We love this pizza during summertime out on the patio and hope you do too! Fig Prosciutto Goat Cheese Pizza Ingredients You can make your own pizza dough, use premade pizza crust, or even pita bread. …
A freshly prepared espresso martini in a martini glass. The martini has a frothy finish on top and is garnished with a few espresso beans.
Espresso Martini ChristmasDrinksEasterFall FavsHappy HourThanksgivingValentines
July 4, 2024

Espresso Martini

This espresso martini is a perfect drink for coffee lovers and special occasions. A blend of coffee and vanilla flavors with a smooth buttery finish you will love to sip with friends. I had my first espresso martini experience on a girls' trip to Savannah, Georgia.  Although I am not sure the town is particularly known for this sophisticated drink, the experts at Public Kitchen on Liberty Street know how…
Roasted Red Pepper Dip served with seasoned pita chips, and garnished with basil leaves
Roasted Red Pepper Dip AppetizersDipsHappy HourLunchVegetarianVeggie SidesVeggie Sides
May 30, 2024

Roasted Red Pepper Dip

This Roasted Red Pepper Dip is easy and packed with flavor.  Originally inspired by a tasty appetizer from a favorite happy hour spot in Hermosa Beach, California, I have attempted to replicate this light, creamy Mediterranean-style dish over the last few years.  We would quickly devour two to three orders of this appetizer with our large happy hour group.  Proven time and time again, this appetizer will not disappoint! Ingredients…
Lemon Basil Martini prepared with a lemon wheel garnish and a sprig of basil
Lemon Basil Martini DessertsDrinksEasterHappy HourNew Years EveSpring FlingsSummer Lovin'Valentines
April 8, 2024

Lemon Basil Martini

This is a favorite martini for special occasions or celebrating the end of a long work week. There is nothing like the perfectly fresh combination of lemon and basil.  Add the sweet smoothness of elderflower liqueur and you will see why we love this refreshing Lemon Basil Martini. Whenever I make a dish with fresh basil, I like to have a little on the side to whip up a couple…
queso dip prepared in a bowl, garnished with 3 tortilla chips
Texas Style Queso Dip AppetizersCinco de MayoDipsHappy HourSuperbowl
January 26, 2024

Texas Style Queso Dip

This hearty Texas-style queso dip is easy and delicious; perfect for football-watching parties!  This dip is made with real cheese!  However, we grew up on the Velveeta cheese and Rotel version of queso, which was a highlight to many gatherings over the years.  Since then, we have adapted this recipe a bit using a variety of real cheeses (not Velveeta), and adding ground beef, onions, and spices.  There are many…
Prepared martini in a martini glass, garnished with a sprig of rosemary
Pomegranate Martini ChristmasDrinksHappy HourNew Years EveThanksgiving
December 13, 2023

Pomegranate Martini

We love this smooth yet slightly tangy pomegranate martini for the holidays!  The pomegranate brings an edgy flavor that with lemon and elderflower, is a perfect blend of bitter-sweet. And it's gorgeous visually, perfect for seasonal happy hours or special occasions. The Pomegranate Martini Ingredients Traditionally, this style of martini is made with Cointreau or another orange citrus liqueur.  If you have spent time on our site, you know we…
Melted Brie with Toasted Almonds & Cranberries AppetizersChristmasHappy HourNew Years EveThanksgiving
December 11, 2023

Melted Brie with Toasted Almonds & Cranberries

  This melted Brie with toasted almonds & cranberries is a favorite holiday appetizer and has been for many years.   It is full of flavor, and actually super simple to make.   Ingredients for the Melted Brie with Toasted Almonds & Cranberries To make this appetizer, gather the following items:  1 small wheel of Brie (usually 8 oz), slivered almonds, dried cranberries, and a small amount of honey.  When serving,…
A glass of prepared Elderflower & Lime Prosecco next to a bottle of St. Germain Liqueur, 1 lime, and lime shavings
Elderflower & Lime Prosecco ChristmasDrinksHappy HourNew Years EveValentines
December 5, 2023

Elderflower & Lime Prosecco

While we all love a fresh glass of bubbly, this is a fun spin.  By adding just a touch of Elderflower liqueur and freshly grated lime zest, this Prosecco takes on a whole new life.  This celebratory beverage was introduced to me by my sister-in-law one Christmas time in France.  We enjoyed large wine glasses full of this delicious concoction on Christmas Eve.   Elderflower & Lime Prosecco Ingredients All…
Captain Ric's shrimp appetizer prepared in a bowl
Captain Ric’s Marinated Party Shrimp Appetizer AppetizersHappy HourSeafoodThanksgiving
December 4, 2023

Captain Ric’s Marinated Party Shrimp Appetizer

This is a fresh, flavorful marinated shrimp appetizer fit for most any occasion or season.  We love making this for a happy hour with friends or as an appetizer before a celebration dinner. The Marinated Party Shrimp Appetizer Ingredients First, you will need 2 1/2 lbs of cooked, peeled and deveined shrimp.  For the mustard vinaigrette, you will need fresh parsley, diced shallots, tarragon vinegar, white wine vinegar, olive oil,…