Start With - Wild Rice

Regular readers of this blog know that I love wild rice. And I don't think it's just because I'm from Minnesota, where wild rice is practically a staple! The nutty taste and tender, chewy texture of this grass seed is really delicious. Try any of my recipes that start with wild rice, including Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Casserole (pictured), Wild Rice Quiche, or Ham Broccoli and Wild Rice Skillet.

Super Bowl Appetizer Exchange!

I think a Super Bowl party wouldn’t be complete without chicken wings, so for your party on Sunday make New Buffalo Chicken Wings. This version of the classic spicy recipe uses chicken breast chunks instead of wings, so they're easier to eat. You can still make the recipe with wings if you'd like; just cook the wings about 8-10 minutes longer. The blue cheese dip adds a cooling contrast.

Of course, you’ve got to have something sweet to eat too. Updated Chocolate Nut Toffee is a super easy recipe that uses just six ingredients and takes about 10 minutes to put together, but tastes like something you get from a fancy candy store.

_{Photo © 2006 Linda Larsen, licensed to About.com, Inc.}