
I have a weakness for crostini. I simply can't get enough of the thin, crisp toasts with savory toppings. Since I jump at the chance to try a new variation, I recently made this easy, vegetarian crostini recipe.

If you're in the mood for a big bowl of spaghetti and meatballs, but want something other than a traditional tomato sauce, I highly recommend this creamy
pesto dish! A tasty blend of bread and seasoning, the meatballs that dot the pasta are scrumptious with the perfect texture.Both the pesto and meatballs are simple to make, but do require time. The best thing about this recipe is it makes a lot, so save some for a later date.

Although I've made hummus with canned garbanzo beans a bunch of times, recently, I decided to experiment with a dried variety. The resulting hummus was delicious and incredibly rich with a perfect texture. Using the dried beans seemed to make it fuller and more luxurious than other any other hummus.

The other day I was browsing the recipes on TeamSugar and this one by
VirginSin caught my eye: Was it a breakfast item, a snack, or a dessert? I think the answer is all of the above! These bite-sized treats — a combination of cornflakes, honey, and peanuts — are served in paper cups making them a tasty, portion-controlled indulgence.

A delightful alternative to the classic caprese salad, these skewers are bite-sized pieces of heaven. The recipe couldn't be easier, and the simplicity highlights the pure flavor of ripe tomatoes and fresh cheese. To make these easy appetizers, I tossed pieces of bocconcini, or mozzarella balls, with homemade pesto.

When you entertain as much as I do, it's important to have a selection of stylish appetizer plates. From small plates to decorative trays, these serving platters are essential to displaying delicious dishes. I'm always looking for interesting pieces and I invited you to help me add to my collection.

I am a diehard pickle fanatic, but I realize the same doesn't apply for everyone. This
easy pickling recipe for spicy vegetables, however, could convert even the biggest pickle skeptic. The medley of crisp haricots verts and pearl onions goes well in conjunction with meaty carrots and a subtle jalapeño bite.

When you entertain as much as I do, it's important to have a selection of stylish appetizer plates. From small plates to decorative trays, these serving platters are essential to displaying delicious dishes. I'm always looking for interesting pieces — like these
portable, three-part servers by NapaStyle ($78.00) — to add to my collection, so let's head off to market in search of appetizer servingware.

When I saw this recipe for pancetta-wrapped peaches in the July issue of
Food and Wine magazine, I knew I had to make it. The recipe takes four simple ingredients — peaches, pancetta, basil, and balsamic vinegar — and turns them into one incredibly delicious, perfectly balanced dish. The peaches are sweet and juicy, the pancetta is crisp and salty, and the basil is fresh and fragrant.

Last weekend I was at my parents house in Sonoma County and the weather was wonderfully warm. After consuming a large lunch, I decided to enjoy a light, Spanish-style dinner. The Spanish often eat a dinner of cold cuts, olives, and cheese.