Behind the Booklet: 50 Easy Appetizers

50 easy appetizers

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Food Stylist: Brett Kurzweil Prop Stylist: Paige Hicks

Photo by: Andrew Purcell

Andrew Purcell

Hors d’oeuvres and appetizers are often the best part of a meal to me. Maybe it’s because finger foods are just more fun to eat or because they’re usually paired with a cocktail. When Food Network Kitchens were coming up with ideas for 50 Easy Appetizers (page 166) for the November issue of Food Network Magazine, the possibilities seemed endless.

blistered peppers

We ended up developing more recipes than we could ever possibly fit, but I thought the two below were too good not to share. The Blistered Peppers (pictured above) are popping up on trendy bar menus everywhere and couldn’t be more simple, while the Date Bites (pictured below) are a sophisticated twist on the classic Devils on Horseback (dates wrapped in bacon).

date bites

Blistered Peppers: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add shishito or baby bell peppers and cook, stirring occasionally, until blistered and tender. Sprinkle with lemon juice and sea salt.

Date Pistachio Prosciutto Bites: Stuff pitted dates with 2 pistachios each, then wrap in a thin slice prosciutto. Top with chopped pistachios.

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