starters

Figs, prosciutto, and cheese are a delicious combination. You can translate this dish into a salad or as a topping for a pizza and the goat cheese can easily be substituted for blue cheese.

In the south we have ways of incorporating peaches into every course. This soup can be a starter, side dish, or even dessert and the taste is absolute heaven.

Elegant, but healthy way to use summer’s ripe tomatoes. I use stone ground cornmeal from Logan Turnpike Mill in Blairsville, Georgia.

Don’t be daunted by the fact that this appetizer is planked; it’s well worth the extra 10 minutes. The combination of strawberries, balsamic, and smoky cheese is amazing. If you don’t have time to plank then this can easily be prepared in the oven.

A good friend of ours, Ted, owns Savannah Bee Honey. They have amazing products and after a trip to Savannah to see his place, I dreamed up a simple appetizer that really showcases his product.

Probably one of the most requested appetizers in my house, pickled shrimp are a staple at cocktail parties and there are never any leftovers. This popular dish reminds me of the Master’s Golf Tournament because there is always a bowl sitting on the coffee table at my in-laws home.

At special occasions in our house, cheese straws were served in a little silver bowl next to the bar. My served them at weddings, dinner parties, and of course throughout the holidays. If you have never had a true southern cheese straw, you are missing out on something amazing.