10 Spring Recipes For Your Party (Slideshow)

One of the greatest tricks to a dinner party is finding menu items that look impressive without actually taking much work. This simple appetizer fits the bill — it only requires a few minutes of prep, but by showcasing it in the avocado shell you get a unique presentation that will wow any guests.

Check out Everything You Want to Know About Avocados.

- Ali Rosen

A savory bread pudding made of onions makes a delicious and unique side to your outdoor, spring outside party. 

This sweet combination of strawberries and honey is nicely balanced with the creaminess of ricotta and the crunchy, nuttiness of Marcona almonds. Oh, and the lovely fragrance of fresh basil. Serve this quick appetizer on top of toasted ciabatta bread or other crostini-like pieces for a quick and pretty appetizer.

Click here for 6 Sweet and Savory Strawberry Recipes.

- Yasmin Fahr

This pretty (and simple) recipe is perfect for any spring table. Your guests will love the fried dough and the fresh meringue that make this dish delicious 

The great thing about making a large pan of ratatouille is that you can use some of it the following week, perhaps served with couscous, folded through pasta, or in sandwiches with some goat cheese. This is perfect for a side at any spring inspired party.

-Clodagh McKenna

Making grilled pizza is a bit of a participatory event, and is best done when guests are outside, milling near the grill. Guests can get involved in customizing their pizzas or requesting combinations. Use whatever toppings you like in addition to the tomatoes.

-What's a Hostess to Do

Any tart-sweet apple such as Pippin and Granny Smith will do for this recipe. These Fried Apple Spring Rolls, with their rum-spiked mascarpone and tart-sweet apple filling, are a novel treat for dinner party guests. Give these a try!

See all appetizer recipes.

- Rodney Murillo

Don't be fooled — even though it's frozen, this dessert packs some heat. Serve à la mode to mellow out the fire. If you can't find Mexican chocolate (such as Ibarra), adding equal parts cinnamon and cayenne pepper to regular baking chocolate is a good substitute.

Click here to see more D.I.Y. Frozen Desserts.

- Will Budiaman

With its jewel tone hue and crisp, thirst-quenching taste featuring a medley of juicy raspberries and zesty mint, it's no wonder both the ladies and gents are falling over the Karthago, which, like its namesake, is unique and unforgettable. It's wonderfully fruity and refreshing, and you may think this tantalizing number has no alcohol, but beware: it's spiked and won't hesitate to deliver a mean punch after several rounds. But rest assured, you won't regret ordering one or three at Manhattan's hot spot Center Bar, courtesy of Michael Lomonaco.

-Stephanie Nolasco

A festive warm weather cocktail that is easy to make (and even better to drink).

 — Allison Beck