These crisp and flaky cheese straws specked with fresh herbs and crushed red chili flakes make a wonderful hors d'oeuvre to go along with wine and cocktails. Though they look like bread sticks, they're actually more akin to savory pie crust or pastry. I find them wildly addictive and just plain fun to serve. GET THE RECIPE
Retro they may be, but Swedish Meatballs make perfect party fare. Made from beef and pork and served in a light cream sauce, they are delicious speared with fancy toothpicks for an appetizer or served over egg noodles for dinner. GET THE RECIPE
This delicious spread is adapted from the celebrated L'Auberge Chez Francois in Great Falls, VA. Served with garlic bread, it's a blend of cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic, scallions and fresh herbs that's completely irresistible. GET THE RECIPE
Coconut Shrimp makes fabulous finger food for a party, especially served with this Asian-Style Slaw with Ginger-Peanut Dressing. Feel free to fry the shrimp a few hours ahead of time and reheat in the oven before serving. GET THE RECIPE
Crab cakes always make an elegant appetizer for a party. These are made Maryland-style, with fresh lump crab meat and just enough filler to bind the cakes together. GET THE RECIPE
Adapted from the website of Curtis Stone, these crisp flour tortillas filled with gooey melted cheddar and shredded chicken in a smoky chipotle-tomato sauce are the ultimate quesadillas. GET THE RECIPE