Every great meal begins with a first bite worth remembering. This collection of appetizer recipes draws on Bia Rich's two decades in New York City restaurants and her love of bringing people together around the table. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply setting the stage for a weeknight meal, these starters deliver big flavor in every bite.
Featured Recipes
Mushrooms en Papillote with Miso Caramelized Onion Shot
An elegant starter that pairs earthy mushrooms with the deep umami of miso caramelized onions, steamed in parchment for concentrated flavor. Posted November 23, 2012.
Pan-Fried Squash Blossoms
Delicate squash blossoms lightly battered and pan-fried until golden — a seasonal favorite that captures summer on a plate.
Cowboy Kisses with Chipotle Dipping Sauce
Bite-sized flavor bombs with a smoky, spicy chipotle dipping sauce that brings the heat. A crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
French Tomato Tart
A savory tart showcasing ripe tomatoes, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs in a flaky crust. Bia recommends pairing it with a dry French rosé. Posted August 6, 2011.
Tips for Great Starters
Bia's approach to appetizers is simple: choose one or two dishes that can be prepped ahead so you're not stuck in the kitchen when guests arrive. Many of these recipes shine at room temperature, making them ideal for relaxed entertaining. Don't be afraid of bold seasoning — a starter should wake up the palate, not put it to sleep.
For a well-rounded spread, pair a warm, rich bite like stuffed mushrooms with something fresh and bright, such as a chilled vegetable starter or a tangy dipping sauce. And as Bia often says, "Too much of a good thing can be wonderful!"
Every great meal begins with a first bite worth remembering, and this collection of appetizers is built on that simple truth. Drawing on years of time spent in professional kitchens and a deep love of bringing people together around the table, these starters set the tone for whatever comes next. From earthy mushrooms steamed in parchment with miso caramelized onions to crisp, seared bites finished with a rich balsamic reduction, each recipe leans into bold flavor balanced with warmth. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply elevating a weeknight meal, these small plates are designed to be shared, savored, and remembered long after the last bite.
The philosophy behind these appetizers is that flavor should never be an afterthought, even when the portions are small. Sweet caramelized onions, rich miso, fresh herbs, and a careful hand with salt and pepper come together in dishes that feel refined yet approachable. Many of these recipes can be prepared ahead, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time at the stove. With generous use of olive oil, wine reductions, and thoughtfully layered ingredients, each starter carries the same care and passion that defines the kitchen. These are the opening notes of a meal worth lingering over.