Oscar-worthy appetizers

The Academy Awards are as big a deal as the Super Bowl in many circles, including senior living, college dining and other noncommercial facilities. These easy-to-prep apps can heighten the excitement leading up to and during the televised event on Feb. 28—adaptable for either a pre-Oscar teaser or an Oscar-watch party.

Smoked Ham and Cheese Croquetas

Cheesy and studded with ham, these Latin-inspired tapas make festive finger food. Chef Bernstein suggests serving them with fig preserves or orange marmalade.

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Avocado Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are increasingly finding their way onto bar menus and appetizer lists to nibble along with drinks. They also make for an enjoyable and healthful midday snack. Chef Roberto Santibanez of Fonda in Brooklyn, N.Y., adds intriguing color and flavor—along with an extra dose of nutrition—by blending the yolks with mashed avocado.

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Pistachio Hummus with Benne Crackers

The popularity of Mediterranean cuisine has put hummus in the spotlight as a healthy and flavorful sandwich filling or dip. This version, created by award-winning Charleston, S.C., chef Sean Brock, substitutes pistachios for the usual chickpeas, with lemon, smoked paprika and cumin livening up the mixture. Brock serves the sophisticated snack with housemade benne crackers—a South Carolina specialty made with sesame seeds.

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Barbeque Shrimp and Cheese Flatbread

This savory flatbread makes for substantial snacking, especially when accompanied by a glass of beer or wine. Chef O’Grady imparts big flavor with a blend of cheeses, smoky bacon and a zingy housemade barbeque sauce.

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Creole Crab Cupcakes

The crab mixture is baked in a mini muffin tin so the crab cakes turn into petite, savory cupcakes. Cream cheese frosting dresses up the cupcake for a party platter. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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