Healthy Recipes: Appetizers

In this section of the site, you can find all of the Skinny Chef appetizer recipes. Typically, there are several pages with recipes - so scroll down and use the paged navigation.... or search for the recipe by title:

 

Leek Quiche

I tasted this elegant, rich quiche while traveling in France. I’ve lightened this version by substituting with some low-fat dairy products. It’s a healthier option for celebrations or holidays and if you need a change from the traditional Thanksgiving dishes, this is a great substitution.

Curried Chicken Salad

Korma and Madras curries are different variations of dried Indian spice combinations. Traditionally, all great Indian cooks take whole spices, toast them, and grind their own freshly roasted curry powder. For convenience sake, you can purchase the powder pre-made. Korma usually contains a mixture of spices like coriander, aniseed, cumin, cinnamon, star anise, and cloves. It has a mild, savory flavor with a touch of sweetness. Madras has added heat from dried chilies and usually contains coriander, turmeric, cumin, and fennel.

Ginger Mint Iced Tea

Iced tea is my favorite summer drink because it’s refreshing without being too sweet and has plenty of antioxidants for healthy summer skin. Tuck in a sliced ripe peach or a handful of berries to get an extra serving of fruit for the day.

Edamame Salad

Edamame or fresh soybeans are packed with low-fat protein and vitamins. This salad is especially good during warm weather or served alongside a flaky piece of white fish. You can find frozen edamame in the freezer isle in organic and health food stores.

Eggplant Parmesan Bake

Baked in ramekins, these creamy mounds of eggplant unmold easily, a sure-fire hit for your next dinner party when you serve them on salad plates with extra sauce.

Zucchini with Sage

Sage is a very strong herb when used fresh, but its flavor mellows when sautéed in olive oil. The Italian call sage cooked in butter, ‘black butter’ and serve it over pasta or meat.

Spiced Nuts

In the cobblestone streets of New Delhi, India, the heavenly, potent aroma of spices roasted with nuts cling in the humid afternoon air. Hungry shoppers stop to fuel up with a handful of cashews and a quick cup of chai. Here’s my version of an Indian street vendors delight!

Spiced Potato Cakes with Tomato Ginger Sauce

I picked up this recipe from my friend Vanessa Vashee while working in Switzerland. Ginger and tomato are a delectable combination, and this sauce is both light and versatile. For a low-carb treat, serve the sauce with steamed fresh veggies. If you choose to make the potato cakes, it’s a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.