Appetizers for Dummies

First impressions count, and nothing makes a better firstimpression on dinner guests than those delectable little nibblesthat you set out before the main course. And you don't haveto limit yourself to serving appetizers at the beginning of a meal.Appetizers are first and foremost about entertaining. They set thetone and the mood of an occasion, whether it's a formaldinner, an intimate get-together, or a big birthday bash. And, bestof all, the cooking times are short, the ingredients are simple tofind (mostly), and it's easy to make a few different recipesat the same time so you can impress your guests with a festiveassortment.

In Appetizers For Dummies, celebrity chef, Dede Wilsonshows you how to make foolproof recipes for 75 mouthwatering, bite-sized wonders--ranging from an Italian-inspired antipastoto a classic shrimp cocktail. Step-by-step, she fills you in oneverything you need to know to:

• Impress your guests with delicious finger food and firstcourses
• Whip up everything from the classics to original, exotic, andoffbeat appetizers
• Plan parties with theme menus that will get rave reviews fromyour guests
• Experiment with flavors and international cuisines

Whether you're looking for general ideas about designingappetizer menus or helpful lists of conventional ingredients, it's all here. Among other things, you'll discover:

• Helpful lists of pantry ingredients and how to use them to makeappetizers almost instantly
• Ready-to-go menus for all occasions
• Recipes for munchies that can be eaten by the handful, as wellas recipes for traditional favorites like deviled eggs and crabcakes
• How to expand your culinary horizons with tea sandwiches, quesadillas, puff pastries, tartlets, muffins, biscuits, and dozensof ethnic recipes
• Plated recipes for formal occasions, including artichokes withvinaigrette, smoked salmon, caviar, foie gras, and more

Whether you're new to the world of appetizers oryou've been delighting guests with your famous finger foodsand hors d'oeuvres for years, Appetizers For Dummiesis the ultimate guide to spicing up any gathering with deliciousmini culinary creations.