When you are planning a fancy dinner with your friends or family, usually figuring out the main course comes easy. But deciding what you want to serve before the main course can be a little more challenging. You want to choose something that is delicious but won’t feel your guests up too much before the main course. Here are a few great options for appetizers that can get your meal to the right start.
Bread
A little bit of bread is a great way to start a meal and get your guests excited about the food that they will be eating next. And since there are tons of bread options, you can really tailor this starter to the specifics of your meal. Rolls are a great bread that is easy to share and can be made with a variety of grains. You could also go with a crusty baguette or a soft and fluffy focaccia. No matter what bread you choose to use, you can create a delicious start to your meal by offering some fluffy carbs to your guests.
Salad
A bright and fresh salad is a great starting point that feels light. And the great thing about salads is that you can tailor them to your needs and the meal you are serving. Salads can be made with greens as the primary veggie, or you can choose a beet salad or other option that is light on the greens. Salads can be strictly meat-free or you can add protein options. You should think about the whole meal you are serving before you decide what you want to include in your salad. That way you can create a great starting point for your meal that will keep everyone satisfied.
Chips and Salsa
Depending on the meal you are serving, chips and salsa can be a great starting dish to get you excited about the dinner you are going to eat. You can tailor your chips and salsa to your guests and any dietary restrictions they may have. Some people prefer a spicier salsa while others like something a little more mild. Having a couple of salsa options can make things easier and ensure that all your guests are satisfied. You can also choose whether you want to use traditional corn chips or chips made with other grains that are also delicious and nutritious.
Choosing the right starters for your meal can help to set the tone and get everyone excited to eat. There are tons of options for great starters, but these three are great, especially when you are serving dinner at home. Mix and match and come up with your own great ideas to create great food for you and your guests.
Check out this article on how to make your cooking even healthier!
**Special thanks to everyone that stopped by my book signing at TASTE! Philly this past weekend. Thanks to Kathy Walsh for snapping a photo with me
