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5 Halloween Appetizers for your Spooky Soiree

October 24, 2017 By Talya Tate Boerner

Halloween Appetizers

Sponsored Post: This Halloween appetizers post is sponsored by Tyson Foods. All content and opinions expressed are my own. #WMDeliciousDisguises

Hey, friends. I’ve been working on a few new Halloween appetizers for the spooky soiree my husband and I are planning this weekend. The coolest thing about all of these deliciously disguised recipes is the first step of each is already prepared by the good folks at Tyson Foods. In other words, these appetizers include Tyson Any’tizers, Chicken Nuggets, or Hillshire Farms Cocktail Sausages. Easy!

When planning a spooky soiree, shortcuts are much appreciated, especially shortcuts that result in great taste and flavor. And bonus—all the ingredients in these five recipes were purchased at my local Walmart Neighborhood Market (660 MLK Jr. Blvd, Fayetteville, AR). One stop shopping is an immense bonus with a lengthy party planning to-do list.

Halloween isn’t just for kids. When we lived in Dallas, our home was known as the neighborhood  Halloween party house. Three years ago, we moved to Northwest Arkansas. It’s taken us this long to get back in the swing of hosting a Halloween party. (Don’t ask.) But, this is the year! We are excited about resurrecting our spooky soiree, and in creepy yet elegant fashion, we plan to go all out with food and decorations.

Five Halloween Appetizers

Today I’m sharing five Halloween appetizers along with serving suggestions to complement the mysterious ambiance I’m hoping to create. Yes, mood is created not only with home decorations and clever costumes, but also with food, plating, presentation, and spices. Little touches can make a memorable impact.

I try to imagine, what would Count Dracula serve to his guests?

Let me show you what I’ve come up with…Continue Reading

Barbecue Chipotle Meatballs (aka Kryptonite)

December 17, 2016 By Talya Tate Boerner

 

Barbecue Chipotle Meatballs

Barbecue Chipotle Meatballs are sure to be a hit at your next shindig, unless you’re a vegetarian. And if that’s the case, this may very well be your kryptonite. This dish packs some heat and couldn’t be easier to make. That’s a good thing when you’re hosting a shindig.

This recipe has been stashed away in my family favorite cookbook since 2008 when I clipped it from Southern Living magazine. (I know because it’s dated.) And I make it from time to time but not often enough.Continue Reading

Spicy Rice and Bean Dip (plus a Riceland giveaway!)

September 15, 2016 By Talya Tate Boerner

This spicy rice and bean dip is perfect for any gathering!

Here in the South we love our chip and dip. Tuesday night I made a spicy rice and bean dip for book club. It was my turn to host, and we just happened to be discussing my book, The Accidental Salvation of Gracie Lee. For a new author like me, this is an exciting thing. It can also feel a little intimidating because, when you think about it, you’ve asked people to take a gander at your  innermost thoughts and give feedback.

While they drink wine.

No biggie.

But back to my spicy rice and bean dip. Continue Reading

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Hi! I'm Talya Tate Boerner. Writer, Reader, Arkansas Master Naturalist / Master Gardener, Author of

THE ACCIDENTAL SALVATION OF GRACIE LEE (2016)

GENE, EVERYWHERE: a life-changing visit from my father-in-law (2020)

BERNICE RUNS AWAY (2022)

THE THIRD ACT OF THEO GRUENE (coming 2025)

Recent Ramblings:

  • Sunday Letter: February 22, 2026
  • Our Garden Mission Statement
  • Goodbye, 2025. Hello, 2026.
  • Sunday Letter: 11.23.25
  • Maggie and Miss Ladybug: My New Children’s Nature Book

Novels:

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