Caroline’s Favorite Spring Appetizer

The blooming buds and sunny skies mixed with spring’s flurry of celebrations – like Mother’s Day, graduations and the start of wedding season – bring out the inner host in me. Long gone are the days of large feasts and heavy meals. When it comes to hosting a small spring gathering, I prefer to keep it simple and serve a few appetizers and rosé for a light, yet flavorful meal.

One of my go-to cookbooks for inspirational appetizers is Near & Far by Heidi Swanson. Filled with 120 recipes using natural, whole foods and photographs inspired by Swanson’s travels, this cookbook takes a worldly approach to cooking and makes it accessible in your home kitchen. The chapters are organized by destination, ranging from Morocco and Japan to France and India. One of my favorite appetizer recipes is the Tartines au Fleur de Courge. The perfect balance of refreshing and flavorful, I love how the avocado base is piled high with a zesty macadamia nut topping. If you are partial to certain nuts, you could swap these out for almonds, cashews or pistachios.

Don’t skimp on the orange zest, it adds a unique, refreshing flavor

Our DIANI Living Apron is key for keeping my hostess outfit fresh and stain-free

When you cut open the perfect avocado, you can’t help but take a bite 

It’s time to add the finishing touches to the table setting….

Our new Lyonnais Carafe and glassware is perfect for serving a variety of beverages

Casual yet elegant, our bamboo dishware is made for spring gatherings

Complete each table setting with a bamboo flat plate, small plate, and small bowl

For this recipe and more delicious dishes, shop the Near & Far cookbook on our website or find it in our store.

Bon Appétit!