Having guests over always begins with “what can I serve that they haven’t had before?” Now, I know they probably aren’t expecting Michelin Star plates coming out. But, you want to serve something that takes you out of the usual menu.

We recently had a small gathering to celebrate my husband’s “milestone ” birthday. Coming up with the menu needed some thought. Chips and hummus? Veggie tray? How about tuna??

Yes, tuna! And in a can even! But which one? How about one that checks off many important factors. Take a look at Wild Planet Foods tuna. Important facts, the tuna is pole and line caught- no trolling! It’s meaty, not mushy. Fresh tasting with no “fishy” smell when you open the can. Oh, and it’s not pricey.

Back to the apps I made…..

So I had a can (or two) of the Wild Planet Skipjack tuna. There was some left over roasted red peppers from when we made pimento cheese spread. Works well together, but I need a “vessel”. I wanted something light and finger food style. I used premade mini phyllo shells, picked up some fresh herbs and added Golden Balsamic Vinegar for flare.

Minced the peppers and shallots, adding chopped tarragon. The Golden balsamic gets whisked together. Combine them well in a bowl. I did heat the shells before putting the tuna filling for a crisp texture and keeping it sturdy. An option is sprinkling a little Parmesan once filled and back into the oven for a quick heating that bonds it all together.

I was on a roll! Tuna lettuce cups next….

Basically tuna salad in mini lettuce bowls. Everyone has their own amazing tuna salad recipe, I kicked mine up with a hint of curry powder- what a boost it gave to my usual recipe!

I’ll be honest, I truly believe it’s the tuna I used. For this dish I used Wild Planet Foods Albacore tuna.

Simple recipes to break the monotony. Guests enjoy it and it didn’t take what seems like forever to make.

Happy app-ing!!!

Winter is bringing its cold weather- and my local Chick Fil A is ready with a jam-packed January!

On January 15th, from 5p-7p is craft night. The little crafters get a free 4 pc nugget kids meal. And.. a picture with the Chick Fil A Cow!

Finally, our stuffed animals get their chance to have a sleepover. Fun begins on the 26th, sleepover is only for your stuffed animal and the Chick Fil A Cow. He will take pictures during the sleepover. You will be able to pick up your stuffed animal on Saturday. Come in your pajamas! Kids get free chicken minis and milk- Moms, you get coffee!!

Remember Willy Wonka’s Golden Ticket? Forget the chocolate bars! These golden tickets are with the Chick Fil A chicken sandwich! Find one? It’s worth 12 sandwiches, enter your ticket to win 12 more. The promo is from January 4- 31st.

There’s even Soup and salad Tuesdays! From 11a- 7p receive a free small soup with an order of a salad entree!

Last, but not least……do you like coffee? From the 22nd- 27th receive a free small coffee. We’ll be celebrating National Coffee Break day ( on the 20th).

Please note: these events are at my local Chick Fil A. Check your local Chick Fil A for dates and events!