Cory's Best Calamari
My mom always cooked this recipe when I was a kid: deep fried calamari. This is one of our family's favorite foods. Simple yet very delicious.
Chef John's Shrimp Cocktail
Before I knew much about food or dining out, I knew that if they brought shrimp cocktails to the table as an appetizer, we were eating at a 'fancy' restaurant. I'm sure I enjoyed the shrimp, but what I really loved was dipping the crackers in the spicy, horseradish-spiked cocktail sauce.
City Ceviche
A wonderful appetizer to enjoy with friends when San Francisco's Indian summer warms the city. The true way to 'cook' the fish is to marinate it in citrus juice overnight, but I find that the poaching process is faster and an easy way to judge if it is indeed cooked. I often buy precooked shrimp (but NOT frozen!) and just poach the scallops. Best when served with cold beer (we prefer Pacifico®) and fresh limes. Using quality and sturdy tortilla chips is essential. Please note that the serving size is meant for appetizer portions.
Crab and Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms
This is the result of trying to duplicate a seafood chain's recipe. Comes close enough, they're gone the minute they hit the table!
Teriyaki Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Bacon-wrapped scallops lightly marinated in a teriyaki, fresh grated ginger, and brown sugar sauce. These are always a huge hit at every party I go to. They disappear fast and then I'm always asked for the recipe. I often hear comments such as, What an awesome combination!!! and These are so additive!!
Maggie's Clams Casino
These are delicious Clams Casino that my girlfriend makes for me, with a few of my own refinements. Great for the game on Sunday.
Chef John's Crab Rangoon
While not 'authentic,' these crispy crab and cream cheese wontons are one of the most addictive, delicious, and crowd-pleasing appetizers ever created. That is, if the filling has enough crab in it. I'm using a 1 to 1 ratio of crab to cream cheese.
Best Hot Crab Dip
Very easy to make and absolutely wonderful! I am from Maryland and this is truly the best crab dip around. I have been making it for years.
Shrimp Salsa
This is an awesomely simple, light, and refreshing salsa that goes great with tortilla chips.
Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls
With fresh vegetables wrapped in rice paper, these Vietnamese spring rolls are a refreshing appetizer for an Asian-inspired meal.
Easy Tuna Patties
Serve these crispy tuna patties as a simple appetizer or hot sandwich.
Grilled Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp marinated in lemon, garlic, and parsley for 30 minutes, then grilled. Can be used as an appetizer or main dish. This recipe also works well with scallops.