Are you hosting a party, bridal shower or baby shower and haven’t a clue as to what to serve as appetizers? Sometimes it’s the smallest things that count the most and that means appetizers. Consider cooking up a storm but first dive into the sea for some tasty treats for the palate! Here are seven appetizers sure to delight any seafood lover!
Here is some of my favorite family recipes handed down through the generations. They include sushi poppers, smoked salmon with cucumber dip, creamy clam dip for vegetables, hot crab dip, succulent shrimp spread, tuna melt and creamed lobster. Delight the palate! Get ready to dig in and enjoy!
Sushi Poppers
Ingredients
1 cup freshly cooked short grain rice
3 tbsp seasoned rice vinegar
2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds or black sesame seeds (optional)
In large shallow dish, spread rice. Sprinkle with seasoned rice vinegar and sesame seeds. Using wooden spoon, toss gently to combine (do not stir or rice will clump). Keep rice covered with a damp cloth if not using immediately.
Using wet fingers, place rounded teaspoon of rice in the palm of your hand. Make an indentation in the centre and place desired filling inside. Dip fingers into water and pack rice firmly around filling to make a small ball. Repeat process with remaining rice. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or dot of washabi, if desired. Cover with plastic wrap and keep at room temperature until ready to serve.
Makes 30 pieces.
Smoked Salmon with Cucumber Dip
Ingredients
2 medium cucumbers
½ cup sour cream
3 tbsp cider vinegar
1 ½ tbsp finely cut chives
¾ tsp fresh or dried dill
1 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
½ lb. smoked salmon
pumpernickel bread
Wash and peel cucumbers. Slice thin. Combine sour cream, vinegar, chives, dill, salt and pepper. Pour over cucumbers and mix. Cover and chill for 2-3 hours.
Slice salmon paper-thin and then place on thin rounds of buttered pumpernickel bread. Serve cucumber mixture in a bowl as a dip to which guests can help themselves and spread on top of salmon.