Appetizers Archives - Pizza Today https://pizzatoday.com/topic/appetizers/ 30 Years of Providing Business Solutions & Opportunities for Today's Pizzeria Operators Wed, 10 Sep 2025 15:25:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://pizzatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/20x20_PT_icon.png Appetizers Archives - Pizza Today https://pizzatoday.com/topic/appetizers/ 32 32 Classic Beef Empanada Recipe https://pizzatoday.com/recipes/classic-beef-empanada-recipe/149668/ Tue, 29 Jul 2025 18:22:07 +0000 https://pizzatoday.com/?post_type=recipes&p=149668 Get a Classic Beef Empanada Recipe  Here is a classic beef empanada recipe to experiment with. Pro Tip: You can add the beef filling as a specialty pizza topping. For the Empanada Dough: Print Classic Beef Empanada Recipe DOUGH Author: Pizza Today   Ingredients 3 cups all-purpose flour ½ cup cold, unsalted butter, cubed 1 teaspoon […]

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Here is a classic beef empanada recipe to experiment with. Pro Tip: You can add the beef filling as a specialty pizza topping.

For the Empanada Dough:

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Classic Beef Empanada Recipe DOUGH
Author: 
 
Ingredients
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cold, unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ⅔ cup cold water
Instructions
  1. Combine flour, salt and sugar in a large bowl.
  2. Mix in the cold butter until the mixture forms a coarse, crumbly texture.
  3. Gradually pour in the cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Avoid overworking the dough.
  4. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes while preparing the filling.

 

For the Empanada Beef Filling:

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Classic Beef Empanada Recipe BEEF FILLING
Author: 
 
Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 10 green olives, sliced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and fully cooked.
  4. Stir in cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt and pepper.
  5. Mix well to coat the beef with spices until everything is well combined.
  6. Adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

 

For the Empanadas:

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Classic Beef Empanada Recipe
Author: 
 
Ingredients
  • Empanada Dough (Recipe Above)
  • Beef Filling (Recipe Above)
  • 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions
  1. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.
  2. Use a 4-5-inch round cutter to cut out circles. Place about 1 tablespoon of filling onto the center of each circle.
  3. Fold the dough over the filling into a half-moon shape.
  4. Press the edges firmly with your fingers and crimp with a fork to seal.
  5. Brush beaten egg over the tops for a golden finish.

 

 

 

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]]> Nduja Bruschetta https://pizzatoday.com/recipes/nduja-bruschetta/148750/ Mon, 24 Feb 2025 20:38:32 +0000 https://pizzatoday.com/?post_type=recipes&p=148750 Get the Nduja Bruschetta recipe Bruschetta is a go-to appetizer. But why not elevate it by substituting toppings placed on the toasted baguette? Nduja is a spicy and flavor spread that can “wow” a starter. This recipe features nduja paired with a lemony ricotta, basil and an extra kick of heat with a drizzle of […]

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]]> Get the Nduja Bruschetta recipe

Bruschetta is a go-to appetizer. But why not elevate it by substituting toppings placed on the toasted baguette? Nduja is a spicy and flavor spread that can “wow” a starter. This recipe features nduja paired with a lemony ricotta, basil and an extra kick of heat with a drizzle of chili oil. Experiment with this recipe and add your own twist. More on nduja.

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Nduja Bruschetta
Author: 
Recipe type: Appetizer
 
Ingredients
  • 1 large French or Italian baguette
  • 6 ounces nduja
  • ¾ cup ricotta
  • Juice from a quarter of a lemon
  • Basil, torn
  • Sea salt
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Chili oil, optional
Instructions
  1. In a bowl, blend ricotta and sea salt to taste; add juice from a quarter of a lemon. Set aside.
  2. Slice baguette into 1-inch-thick slices.
  3. Arrange bread on a baking sheet.
  4. Brush with EVOO.
  5. Toast bread until golden brown.
  6. Spread nduja over toasted baguette slices.
  7. Put ricotta into a piping bag or dollop ricotta mixture with a spoon onto the toast.
  8. Finish with basil and a sprinkle of sea salt.
  9. For an extra kick, add a drizzle of chili oil.

 

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]]> Turkey, Hatch Green Chile and Sharp Cheddar Meatballs https://pizzatoday.com/recipes/turkey-hatch-green-chile-and-sharp-cheddar-meatballs/148610/ Mon, 27 Jan 2025 21:58:00 +0000 https://pizzatoday.com/?post_type=recipes&p=148610 Get the Turkey, Hatch Green Chile and Sharp Cheddar Meatballs Recipe This nontraditional meatball recipe features ground turkey, Hatch green chiles, cilantro and white cheddar. Explore more tips on how to make the perfect meatball in Secrets to the Best Meatballs. Print Turkey, Hatch Green Chile and Sharp Cheddar Meatballs Author: Pizza Today Recipe type: appetizer   […]

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]]> Get the Turkey, Hatch Green Chile and Sharp Cheddar Meatballs Recipe

This nontraditional meatball recipe features ground turkey, Hatch green chiles, cilantro and white cheddar. Explore more tips on how to make the perfect meatball in Secrets to the Best Meatballs.

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Turkey, Hatch Green Chile and Sharp Cheddar Meatballs
Author: 
Recipe type: appetizer
 
Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey (mix of white and dark meat)
  • 2 Hatch green chiles
  • 3 roasted garlic cloves, roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup cilantro
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (add a bit more if the mixture feels too wet)
  • ½ cup sharp white cheddar, shredded
  • 2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
Instructions
  1. For the chiles: Heat oven to 400 F. Toss in olive oil and a pinch of salt and place on sheet pan.
  2. Roast until blistered, about 20 minutes.
  3. Remove from the oven and place in bowl, then cover with plastic wrap.
  4. Let the chiles cool and then remove the skins and seeds.
  5. Dice and set aside.
  6. For the Meatballs: Preheat oven to 350 F.
  7. Combine ground turkey, diced chiles, roasted garlic, cilantro, cracked egg, breadcrumbs, cheddar, salt, pepper and cumin.
  8. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well combined.
  9. If mixture is too wet add ¼ cup more breadcrumbs.
  10. Roll into balls about the size of a golf ball and place on a baking sheet.
  11. Bake in oven for 25 minutes.

 

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]]> Fresh Duck and Cherry Sausage https://pizzatoday.com/recipes/fresh-duck-and-cherry-sausage/148417/ Mon, 30 Dec 2024 16:37:28 +0000 https://pizzatoday.com/?post_type=recipes&p=148417 Get the Fresh Duck and Cherry Sausage Recipe This sausage has all the components of a great duck dish. Ground duck can be very wet depending upon how much skin was ground up with it. This is why I add Parmigiano to the mix. You may add some panko breadcrumbs if it is even wetter. […]

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]]> Get the Fresh Duck and Cherry Sausage Recipe

This sausage has all the components of a great duck dish. Ground duck can be very wet depending upon how much skin was ground up with it. This is why I add Parmigiano to the mix. You may add some panko breadcrumbs if it is even wetter. The sweetness of the cherries is juxtaposed by the luscious duck and is elevated by the lemon zest and nuanced cumin. This sausage is great with Pecorino, Asiago, Ricotta, Chevre, Brie and even… more fresh cherries!

Explore more fresh sausage ideas and recipes in “Serving Alternative Sausages in Your Pizzeria”.

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Fresh Duck and Cherry Sausage
Author: 
Recipe type: pizza topping
 
Ingredients
  • 2 pounds ground duck
  • ½ cup red onion in small dice
  • ¼ cup dried cherries
  • 4 tablespoons grated Parmigiano
  • 1 tablespoon roasted garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon extra- virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
Instructions
  1. Using the hottest water from the tap, pour on top of the dried cherries to re-hydrate for 30-60 minutes. When rehydrated, chop the cherries into small dice.
  2. Either sauté or roast the small, diced onion with the olive oil until cooked until transparent.
  3. Add all ingredients into a large bowl and mix thoroughly.
  4. Cook and taste a small dollop and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Wrap in plastic or plastic bag and hold under refrigeration for at least 3 hours.
  6. Dollop on pizza in coin shaped dollops and bake.

 

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]]> Fresh Italian Sausage by John Gutekanst https://pizzatoday.com/recipes/fresh-italian-sausage-by-john-gutekanst/148416/ Mon, 30 Dec 2024 16:29:55 +0000 https://pizzatoday.com/?post_type=recipes&p=148416 Get John Gutekanst’s Fresh Italian Sausage Recipe This is a fail-safe way to spice up freshly ground pork. The distinguishing flavors of all the fennel and spices combined with the slow and low heat from the pepper flakes and zing from the vinegar powder really makes for a great sausage. You can also add ricotta […]

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]]> Get John Gutekanst’s Fresh Italian Sausage Recipe

This is a fail-safe way to spice up freshly ground pork. The distinguishing flavors of all the fennel and spices combined with the slow and low heat from the pepper flakes and zing from the vinegar powder really makes for a great sausage. You can also add ricotta and Parmigiano for a milder, lighter sausage or even meatballs.

Explore more fresh sausage ideas and recipes in “Serving Alternative Sausages in Your Pizzeria”.

Print
Fresh Italian Sausage by John Gutekanst
Author: 
Recipe type: pizza topping
 
Ingredients
  • 5 pounds ground pork
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons Italian Seasoning
  • 11/2 tablespoons toasted and crushed fennel seed
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • ½ tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • ½ tablespoon vinegar powder
  • ½ tablespoon sugar
Instructions
  1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and heat and taste a small portion to check flavor and texture.
  2. For the best taste, wrap and refrigerate for 12-24 hours before using.

 

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]]> Fresh Beef ‘Nduja Sausage https://pizzatoday.com/recipes/fresh-beef-nduja-sausage/148415/ Mon, 30 Dec 2024 16:25:34 +0000 https://pizzatoday.com/?post_type=recipes&p=148415 Get the Fresh Beef ‘Nduja Sausage Recipe This is a major flavorful way to spice up beef on a pizza. I fully admit that this is an appropriation of the iconic Calabrian pork sausage recipe that is smoked and fermented but I don’t have the time, (and too much ground beef) to make the real […]

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]]> Get the Fresh Beef ‘Nduja Sausage Recipe

This is a major flavorful way to spice up beef on a pizza. I fully admit that this is an appropriation of the iconic Calabrian pork sausage recipe that is smoked and fermented but I don’t have the time, (and too much ground beef) to make the real deal. I’ve found that adding the gochujang and holding the sausage to cure under refrigeration mimics that wonderful fermented “tang” and, along with the spice and sweetness of the red peppers, makes for a great pizza topping. Perfect with Gruyere, Gouda, Kashaval, Comte and even mild blue cheeses.

Explore more fresh sausage ideas and recipes in “Serving Alternative Sausages in Your Pizzeria”.

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Fresh Beef ‘Nduja Sausage
Author: 
Recipe type: Pizza Topping
 
Ingredients
  • 10 ounces ground beef (80-20 grind or fattier)
  • 2 ounces roasted red peppers
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang, Korean fermented pepper paste
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon ground Korean chilies (mild)
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
  1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. Heat small dollops in the oven to taste. Adjust seasoning as preferred.
  2. Pack tightly in plastic wrap or bag and hold in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  3. Remove and use on any pizza.

 

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]]> Buffalo Chicken Fondue https://pizzatoday.com/recipes/buffalo-chicken-fondue/147777/ Thu, 08 Aug 2024 11:09:02 +0000 https://pizzatoday.com/?post_type=recipes&p=147777 Get the Buffalo Chicken Fondue Recipe This is a fun spin on traditional buffalo chicken dip. It offers upselling add-on options. Make it a Buffalo cheese dip and serve it with chicken tenders or nuggets. If you include the chicken in the fondue, you can serve it with crisp fresh veggies, crostini or chips. Print Buffalo […]

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]]> Get the Buffalo Chicken Fondue Recipe

This is a fun spin on traditional buffalo chicken dip. It offers upselling add-on options. Make it a Buffalo cheese dip and serve it with chicken tenders or nuggets. If you include the chicken in the fondue, you can serve it with crisp fresh veggies, crostini or chips.

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Buffalo Chicken Fondue
Author: 
Recipe type: Appetizer
 
Ingredients
  • 16 ounces of cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup ranch dressing
  • ¾ cup Buffalo style hot sauce
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese
  • ¼ cup bleu cheese crumbles
  • 6 ounces cooked chicken, shredded
Instructions
  1. Beat cream cheese, ranch dressing and hot sauce. Fold in chicken.
  2. Spread mixture into pie plate sprayed with non-stick spray. Bake at 350 F for 15 min.
  3. Add cheddar to top & bake an additional 10-15 min.
  4. Top with bleu cheese crumbles & serve with tortilla chips.

 

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]]> Spicy Whipped Ricotta https://pizzatoday.com/recipes/spicy-whipped-ricotta/147776/ Thu, 08 Aug 2024 11:01:41 +0000 https://pizzatoday.com/?post_type=recipes&p=147776 Get the Spicy Whipped Ricotta Recipe A favorite option is whipped ricotta. This is one simple appetizer that adds an upscale flare and a menu price to match. You can change it up to incorporate various flavors. A great advantage to whipped ricotta is its versatility. You can finish pizza with whipped ricotta or incorporate […]

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]]> Get the Spicy Whipped Ricotta Recipe

A favorite option is whipped ricotta. This is one simple appetizer that adds an upscale flare and a menu price to match. You can change it up to incorporate various flavors. A great advantage to whipped ricotta is its versatility. You can finish pizza with whipped ricotta or incorporate it into desserts. It’s a cheesy app sure to please.

Print
Spicy Whipped Ricotta
Author: 
Recipe type: Appetizer
 
Ingredients
  • 15 ounces of Ricotta
  • 1 lemon, juice and zest
  • 3 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
  • Hot Honey
  • Chili flakes (ground into a dust)
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. Add ricotta, lemon juice, salt and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to food processor and blend until smooth.
  2. To plate a portion, drizzle with hot honey, 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle lemon zest and chili flake dust.
  3. Serve with crostini.

 

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]]> Jalapeno Dilly https://pizzatoday.com/recipes/jalapeno-dilly/147451/ Mon, 29 Apr 2024 15:44:06 +0000 https://pizzatoday.com/?post_type=recipes&p=147451 Get the Jalapeno Dilly recipe Spicy cocktails are having a moment in the sun. As are dill pickle drinks! Let’s put them both together for a spicy dill pickle cocktail. This one features jalapenos, dill pickle juice, lime juice, tequila and triple sec. More cocktail ideas in Diners are in Love with Cocktails — Your […]

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]]> Get the Jalapeno Dilly recipe

Spicy cocktails are having a moment in the sun. As are dill pickle drinks! Let’s put them both together for a spicy dill pickle cocktail. This one features jalapenos, dill pickle juice, lime juice, tequila and triple sec. More cocktail ideas in Diners are in Love with Cocktails — Your Bottom Line Will Love Them, Too.

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Jalapeno Dilly
Author: 
 
Ingredients
  • 2.5-3 ounces tequila
  • 2.5-3 ounces triple sec
  • 3 ounces dill pickle juice
  • ½ of a fresh jalapeno pepper, sliced
  • 2.5 tablespoons lime juice
Instructions
  1. Be sure to slice the jalapeno thinly. You can use more or less to adjust the spice level.
  2. After shaking with ice until well mixed, add a lime wedge and/or a pickle spice.
  3. We’ve seen a small amount of cayenne pepper added to this drink as well for an additional kick.

 

 

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]]> Spicy Apple Chips https://pizzatoday.com/recipes/spicy-apple-chips/146010/ Mon, 26 Jun 2023 18:02:23 +0000 https://pizzatoday.com/?post_type=recipes&p=146010 Get the Spicy Apple Chips Recipe Apple chips are versatile. You can go savory, spicy or sweet. Go crazy and do all three. Here is a savory and spicy version. Be sure to try your own mix. Just like potato chips. people can’t get enough apple chips. This version gives a spicy Mexican flavor to […]

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]]> Get the Spicy Apple Chips Recipe

Apple chips are versatile. You can go savory, spicy or sweet. Go crazy and do all three. Here is a savory and spicy version. Be sure to try your own mix. Just like potato chips. people can’t get enough apple chips.

This version gives a spicy Mexican flavor to the apple chips. Tajin seasoning gives a mix of chili peppers, sea salt and lime. Heat it up with crushed or ground hot peppers flakes.

Here is the base Spicy Apple Chips recipe to work from:

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Spicy Apple Chips
Author: 
Recipe type: Appetizer
 
Ingredients
  • 2 apples
  • Tajin Seasoning
  • Cilantro (finely chopped)
  • Cracked black pepper
Instructions
  1. Slice apples thinly using a Mandolin.
  2. Immediately fry until golden. Or, if you are prepping apples ahead, place apple slices into a bath of ¼ teaspoon of salt blended with 2 cups of water for 10 minutes, drain and store in refrigerator for later use.
  3. Once the apples have fried, drain excess oil.
  4. Place in bowl and sprinkle Tajin chili/lime seasoning, crack black pepper and cilantro and toss.
  5. Enjoy.

 

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