Just when you think this month can’t possibly hold another celebration – along comes a graduation or party – or the big holiday at the end of the month – Memorial Day. Here’s two perfectly easy and delicious appetizers for all the fun, using small sweet peppers instead of chips, crackers or bread for serving up to family and friends! 

Salmon Caper Spread

8 OZ Smoked Salmon

8 OZ Neufchatel or Goat Cheese

¼ Cup Capers

Pinch of Cayenne

Chopped Parsley

Place the first three ingredients in the bowl of a food processor and blend until almost smooth. Use as a spread, or to stuff baby peppers, garnish with parsley.

Sweet Peppers Stuffed with Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

1 1/2 Cup Quinoa, Prepared as Directed on Box

1/2 Cup Pitted Kalamata Olives, Chopped

1/4 Cup Capers, Drained

1/2 Cup Chopped Sundried Tomatoes

2 Roasted Red Peppers, Chopped

1 Cup Chopped Artichoke Hearts

1 1/2 Cups Garbanzo Beans

1 Jalepeno, Seeds and Ribs Removed and Minced

1/2 Cup Chopped Dill

1 Recipe Mediterranean Dressing*

In a large bowl, toss the ingredients together with the dressing. Stuff the salad into small sweet peppers that have been seeded and halved.

Mediterranean Dressing*

2 Anchovies Mashed

1/4 Cup EVOO

2 TB Red Wine Vinegar

2 Stalks Chopped Dill

2 Cloves Garlic, grated

Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Place the ingredients in a jar and shake until smooth.