Here's an appetizer recipe that's easy to make, economical, and a real crowd pleaser. Plus, it's got the added benefit of being much healthier than chips and dip. Your family may not even notice that they're happily munching on vegetables -- and if you don't want to tell them, your secret's safe with me!
Sweet mini peppers are sold in clear plastic 'clamshell' packages and are available in the produce section of most supermarkets.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 40 Appetizers
Ingredients:
- 6 oz jar marinated artichoke hearts
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 oz cooked shrimp (any size), coarsely chopped
- 20 sweet mini peppers
- Garnishes: finely chopped chives (or parsley), sunflower seed kernels, or sliced green or black olives
Preparation:
Drain the artichoke hearts and pulse in a food processor until almost smooth. Add the cream cheese, oregano, onion powder, thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper until thoroughly mixed. Transfer the artichoke mix to a bowl and fold in the shrimp. Adjust salt.
Trim the tops from the peppers. Slice the peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Fill each pepper half with a scant teaspoon of shrimp and artichoke mixture and sprinkle with your choice of garnish.
Makes 40 Appetizers