When hosting a Book Club meeting or any gathering, delicious quick and easy appetizers are a must! Nothing jumpstarts a party better than good food and lots of spirits!
Today I’m talking food, but check out this earlier post for some stellar drink ideas!
When leading a busy lifestyle, it’s imperative to have a few go-to recipes you can make in a pinch. It reduces your stress level and makes entertaining so much more enjoyable. Below are three crowd-pleasing recipes to add to your repertoire.
“Keep it simple in the kitchen. If you use quality ingredients, you don’t need anything fancy to make food delicious: just a knife, a cutting board, and some good nonstick cookware, and you’re set.”
~ Curtis Stone ~
The Best Chunky Guacamole
(With a Secret Ingredient!)

Guacamole is always a group favorite! The recipe below uses a little celery salt; it’s my secret ingredient. It gives it a depth of flavor people will notice.





You can jazz it up with some gourmet chips or grab a bag from your local convenience store. It’s always good.
Heather’s Cilantro, Black Bean, and Corn Salsa

Everyone I know is trying to eat well and maintain a healthy diet. I always make an effort to have something low calorie and nutritious to serve. Guests are so appreciative when there’s an option that won’t derail their eating plans.

Heather’s Cilantro Black Bean and Corn Salsa is the perfect dish. It’s tastes fantastic, and it’s addictive. Best of all you can throw it together quickly and most of the ingredients you’ll find in your pantry.

It makes a ton, but that’s ok because it’s a great leftover for the next couple of days on wraps, chicken, fish – you name it!
Cheesy and Delicious Spinach Dip

This spinach dip is my kids absolute favorite! It’s not exactly a healthy option, but it is delicious, and it reheats well the next day.
Whatever the occasion, they ALWAYS request spinach dip.


It’s a simple dish to serve, and guests always ask for the recipe. It so easy, it’s almost embarrassing. My friend gave me the recipe several years ago, and I’m forever thankful!

The Best Chunky Guacamole
Ingredients
- 2 Ripe Avocados
- 1/4 Cup Diced Tomato
- 1/4 Cup Red Onion
- 1/2 Clove Garlic
- 1 1/2 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice
- 1/2 tsp Celery Salt
- 1/4 tsp Pepper
Instructions
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Roughly chop avocados and place in a medium-size bowl.
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Dice tomato, removing seeds and pat dry with a paper towel removing excess liquid.
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Finely chop red onion and garlic.
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Add diced tomato, chopped onion, chopped garlic, lime juice, celery salt and pepper to the avocados.
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Gently combine all ingredients.
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Serve in a decorative bowl with your favorite chips.

Cheesy Spinach Dip
Ingredients
- 1 package Frozen Creamed Spinach
- 1 16 oz. Container Sour Cream
- 1 8 oz. package Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 1 package Vegetable Soup Mix
Instructions
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Place frozen spinach in large microwave-safe bowl and heat for about 1 minute to soften.
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Add the remaining ingredients and combine
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Heat in microwave on high for 10 minutes. Halfway through cooking time stir the mixture two or three times then continue cooking for the remaining time.
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Serve with your favorite chips.
Recipe Notes
** I've used sharp cheddar and mild cheddar and no one can tell the difference. You can adjust the amount of cheddar you use too. If you prefer a cheesier dish, go for the 12 oz bag of cheese!
Happy reading!
Andrea
