Now that we have a checklist for planning a celebration of Dad on Father’s Day, let’s talk MENU!

We’ve got to do it up right for Dad!

APPETIZERS

We’re going to want to whet Dad’s appetite, but not TOO much because there’s lots more to come! Try some Jumbo Shrimp or Basil Pesto Gorgonzola Kisses to get him started.

ENTREE

Now on to the main course! Might I suggest a gorgeous Porterhouse steak for such an occasion? It’s manly, it’s delicious and it’ll let Dad know you’re serious.

SIDE DISHES

This celebration meal calls for Mashed Potatoes with Porcini Mushrooms or decadent Twice Baked Potatoes. Delish!

DESSERT

MY dad is all about the German Chocolate Cake. But maybe yours would love Red Velvet Cake or Vanilla Cheesecake. Pick his favorite!

It’s so much fun to plan a meal for someone you love. Make sure you have all Dad’s faves and it’ll be a hit. Click here for more menu inspiration.

Happy celebrating!

Will they stop at nothing, these bacon-crazed chefs?

I’m not saying I WANT them to, just WOW!

This tasty treat is smoked bacon wrapped onion rings with a sriracha mayo dipping sauce.

In my mind this is either a killer appetizer or a scrumptious side to accompany, say, a bacon-wrapped filet mignon?

This recipe comes to us from our friends at Grilling24x7.com. Geniuses!

For an even bigger taste explosion, you can try applewood double smoked bacon or maple hickory smoked bacon to wrap those rings.

Now that’s just good eatin’! Will YOU try these?

Photo courtesy of Grilling24x7.com.

It’s time to start thinking about Easter menus. And, for me, I stress less if I can make most things ahead of time.

So let’s stress less, shall we?

There are so many menu choices that we can prepare beforehand, and then heat or simply serve when mealtime comes.

For me, a ham is a must-have. We don’t sit down to eat a ham often so it’s usually a holiday dinner for us. Luckily, it’s a heat and serve type entree. And that makes me happy.

The sides and dessert? Well, that’s a different story.

Click here to see a beautiful make-ahead Easter menu including glazed carrots with pistachios (beautifully displayed above), spring pea soup, chutney-glazed ham, pepper cheese biscuits and lemon beehive meringues.

This, my friends, is the recipe for a fantastic Easter meal!

Photo courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens at BHG.com.