Favorite Appetizers

Kate at http://asimplewalk.blogspot.com is hosting the appetizer leg tonight of the Bloggy Progressive Dinner. I think sometimes that appetizers are yummier to me than the actual main course! Here are 2 of my favorite easy cold appetizers.

Ranch Cheese Ball
2 packages of cream cheese, softened
1 package of ranch dressing mix
1 tsp dried dill
pecans, walnuts or almond slices
chopped fresh parsley

In bowl, combine cream cheese, ranch mix and dill. Shape into a ball. Combine nuts and parsley on a plate and roll ball until coated. Place on platter with various crackers.

Black Bean Avocado Salsa

1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 bag sweet corn, thawed
1 red onion, minced
1 medium tomato, diced
2 avocados, peeled, seeded and diced
1T lemon juice
1T minced garlic
1 package dry italian dressing mix
juice of 1 lime
3T chopped fresh cilantro
2T red wine vinegar
1/2 t cumin
chipotle hot sauce to taste
salt and pepper to taste

Place all ingredients but avocado in bowl. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Just before serving, dice avocado, toss in lemon juice to prevent browning, and then add to mixture. Serve with tortilla chips