It’s almost Memorial Day Weekend- the kick-off to summer,  and that means Food, Family, Friends, and Fun!

Here a few of our favorite appetizers and snacks to get your party started.  Wherever you are headed, good food and good music are always a must.  To sweeten your summer we are giving away an Apple iPod Shuffle.  Now you can always have your favorite recipes here on Caramel Potatoes and your favorite tunes at hand!!

Summer Appetizers and Drinks

• Mexi-Corn Dip
• Watermelon, Arugula and Feta Salad Wedges
• Buffalo Chicken Dip
• Baked Parmesan Crab Dip
• Toffee Fondue
• Crab Cakes with Rémoulade
• Crispy

Summer is upon us and who doesn’t love a refreshing cool smoothie on a hot summer day?  I know I do!  This smoothie is quick and simple with tropical flavors of mango and pineapple.  Makes you want to find a beach, maybe you can at least find a clean room in your house and enjoy this smoothie. 🙂

Mango Pineapple Smoothie Recipe

1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk

1 mango, sliced

1 cup diced fresh pineapple

2 cups ice

Blend until smooth.  Enjoy!

I usually think of Rice Krispie treats when dealing with a large group of kids; but this recipe with brown butter and coarse sea salt transforms the kid-friendly favorite into a true grown-up treat.

I’ve had this recipe tucked away for a long time and finally gave it a try. The results are absolutely delicious. Still simple to make, but by browning the butter you get a rich, nutty and unique flavor to really love. You could make these grown-up treats to serve at a luncheon or wrap them up cute for an easy, but fun take-home at your next

It is Friday!! Happy Friday everyone. Today looks to be a good day here in my little part of sunny Colorado. The sun is shining my hubby and son are headed out this afternoon for a father-son campout and the girls and I are going shopping!! Girls night out with my two daughters sounds like a great night to me.

And if you read yesterdays post about Chia Seeds, then I am sure you could have guessed what was coming up today. This is actually surprisingly good and it is good for you. Win-Win just like my weekend. And when

CH CH CH CHIA!! Come on, admit it, you know you thought it. And yes, these are the same seeds that were on infomercials all those years ago trying to sell you a furry little plant pet. However, these seeds were originally eaten by the Mayan and Aztecs thousands of years ago. Today, these little seeds draw the interest of many people for their many health benefits. It turns out the South American staple is a rich source of nutrients and antioxidants.

I, in no wise claim to be a health professional. I first caught on to chia seeds just