summer appetizers


Sometimes when we throw parties we focus all our attention on the fabulous main course—and summer appetizers are a bag of chips and wheel-of-cheese afterthought. But with these delicious party-starters, you could serve day-old bologna sandwiches as the main course and your guests wouldn’t even care—they’re that good!

© iStock/Thomas Perkins








Honey-Ancho Pecans
By Rick Rodgers

These nibbles are virtually impossible to resist; put them out for your guests to snack on while you tend the grill and you are likely to come back to an empty bowl. Dried ancho chiles have a sweet note and you can find them ground into powder in the spice rack at most supermarkets. Chili powder will work, too. Some people will find these nuts perfectly seasoned and others may want to add a bit more kick with cayenne, so the final choice is up to you.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups (1 pound) pecan halves
  • ¼ cup honey
  • ¼ cup light corn syrup
  • 1 handful mesquite wood chips, soaked in cold water for at least 30 minutes, drained
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground, dried ancho chiles or chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons sweet paprika, preferably Hungarian or Spanish
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)