Common Cuisine |

• 1 can drained water-packed artichoke hearts, coarsely chopped
• 1 cup mayo
• 4 oz fresh Parmesan cheese, grated
• 5 green onions, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, chopped finely
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Preheat oven to 350°.

Stir together all ingredients and place in a shallow baking dish (like a pie plate). Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and light golden brown.

Serve with woven wheat crackers.

Makes about 4 cups.

When you have company over and they’re ready but dinner’s not, you’ll be glad you thought to have one of these ready. Personally, I think some starters also make a great simple dinner for two.

Some of the easiest starters include:

• Corn Chips and Salsa
• Veggies or Potato Chips and Dip
• Cheese Ball and Crackers
• Shrimp Cocktail (easy AND fancy!)

For more great starter ideas, visit our Appetizers section.

This is one of my all-time favorite party foods. For some reason, though, I always forget to buy the chips. Make sure you don’t do the same!

• 1 can bean dip, refried beans, or pureed black beans
• 1 avocado, diced* (or mashed in a bowl with a fork)
• 1 cup sour cream, with 2 tsp taco seasoning mix (1/2 packet) stirred in
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar and/or Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 med chopped tomatoes
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 4 oz can sliced black olives
• 1 bag corn chips

In a shallow dish (a pie plate will work well), layer above ingredients (except chips) in the order given. For best effect use a clear glass dish. Serve with chips.

*To dice an avocado, cut it in half and remove the pit. Slice into the flesh, not through the skin, making a grid pattern. Scoop out the flesh with a spoon.