Chickpea Munch

Chickpeas are a surprising source of protein and ideal as a meat substitute for vegetarians. However, they can also make for a great afternoon or cocktail snack.

Instead of satisfying your salt craving with chips or (worse!) fries, consider this healthy, yummy and quick recipe.

Recipe: Apple Maple Bread Pudding

Difficulty: Easy
Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 4-6 Servings

I tend to do a lot of my baking on a whim. It usually ends up being somewhere around 10 or 11 at night when stores are either closed or I'm way too lazy to make a trip to get any ingredients. I made this recipe last night during one of my baking moods. All the ingredients are ones you probably have at home, making this a great comfort food recipe.

This recipe is super easy to double or triple but beware it's not the most attractive looking dessert for entertaining.


I adapted this recipe from The Pleasures of Cooking for One by Judith Jones, who used to be Julia Child's editor. See the recipe after the jump!

Recipe: Bruschetta with Peppers and Gorgonzola

The first course for our big cook day was a seemingly simple bruschetta. This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled for a party. In fact, I bought a baguette which we didn't even use half of so making this recipe for 15-20 people would not be a problem.

It's also a relatively healthy option and you can choose a whole wheat bread (or 60% whole wheat) to soothe your conscience.

I adapted this recipe from Ina Garten's Back to Basics cookbook. See it after the jump!

Difficulty: Easy
Time: 25-30 Minutes
Yield: 8-10 servings

Recipe: No Bake Cheesecake

This is one of my tried and true desserts. It's always a big winner at parties and people are always asking me for the recipe. The best part: no baking required! I thought it would be a good one to christen my blog with. Low fat options are in brackets. I've also added a few tips on products in the kitchen. See the recipe after the jump. Enjoy!

Note: This dessert should be made the night before an event.