party foods Archives - grace grits and gardening

5 Halloween Appetizers for your Spooky Soiree

October 24, 2017 By Talya Tate Boerner 6 Comments

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 3 Comments

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

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings

January 28, 2014 By Talya Tate Boerner 15 Comments

My recipe for sweet and spicy chicken wings is sure to be a crowd pleaser at your Super Bowl party this weekend. (Or for supper tonight…) The marinade is easy to make and the chicken grills up in no time. Alternatively, if the weather outside is frightful where you live, these wings will be just as tasty roasted in the oven.

Ingredients

2.5 pounds chicken wings/drumettes
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup agave
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1 Tablespoon ginger
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
sea salt and black pepper, to taste
chopped green onions (garnish)

Method

Mix all the ingredients together (except green onions). Pour into a large plastic bag with chicken. Brine overnight in the refrigerator or at least 6-8 hours.

My husband grilled these on his Big Green Egg. They cooked really quickly—in less than fifteen minutes. If you prefer to cook in the oven, roast at 350 degrees for 45 minutes until juices run clear.