I’m always trying to switch up the appetizers I serve. I mean, aren’t you a little tired of the same hot spinach and artichoke dip at every party you go to? And I like to use ingredients maybe some folks wouldn’t immediately think of – like polenta. These tasty little bites are easy to make. First make the polenta, then spread it out in a baking sheet to cool in the fridge overnight. The next day, cut into 2 inch squares and plop a bit of basil pesto onto each one.Top each with a couple of thinly sliced strips of roasted red peppers……then sprinkle with either grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese or shredded mozzarella. Bake until heated through and the cheese has melted and serve.

Now here’s a secret: although I make my own polenta, pesto and roasted peppers, you can buy all three at your local grocery store and save time if you need to. Buy the precooked polenta in a tube and slice into rounds. Buy the roasted peppers in a jar, drain, and slice. And use pre-made pesto from the Italian aisle of your store. In fact, keep these 3 things on hand along with some cheese and you can whip these up on short notice when guests drop by for a snack that will surprise and delight your guests!