My kids love family snack time. Our group snack time usually occurs on a Sunday during football season. Sometimes we eat popcorn and hot chocolate, sometimes chips, salsa and guacamole. Sitting together, sharing food and cheering on our favorite team brings us together even if it is only for a short time. We sit down and have dinner together every night, but often it feels rushed. Sunday afternoon never feels rushed.

Last weekend, we watched the Pats take on the Broncos. Bubba bought the kids a Pats balloon at the grocery store. We were excited. I made my favorite guacamole and we sat together, just the 4 of us and watched our team. It felt cozy. I think I understand, now, why they like family snack time so much. We just sit together. No one is trying to get anything done. No one is rushing. By the third quarter the kids lost interest in the game. Bubba and I held out hope they would come back and win, but not this time. The next day C asked when will we have family snack again. I said soon, but what I wanted to say was: how about now Goose? Until our next easy Sunday…

This guacamole recipe is a family favorite. Even our 3-year-old loves it! I found this recipe in Bon Appetit a couple of years ago and it has since become my favorite guacamole.

This recipe calls for basil instead of cilantro and lemon juice instead of lime juice. The basil adds just a little sweetness. The lemon juice pairs well with the basil and makes the dip taste much brighter. This dip is great in the summer when fresh basil is abundant.

The next time you gather with family and friends make this dip. It comes together quickly and tastes great with tortilla chips, fresh veggies and even crusty bread. Maybe even try it on your burger this summer. Summer….

Guacamole with Basil and Shallots

Recipe from Bon Appetit

serves 8

Ingredients:

6 avocados, halved, flesh removed and diced

3 tbsp. fresh lemon juice

1/2 cup chopped, fresh basil + more for garnish

1/2 cup shallots, finely chopped

kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper

tortilla chips, fresh veggies, crusty bread

Directions:

Place avocados in a large bowl and smash with a fork or potato smasher. Add lemon juice, basil, shallots. Mix gently. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer dip to a pretty bowl and serve with chips and veggies. For tips on how to keep guacamole green, head to the kitchn. Enjoy!

5 Delicious Appetizers to Make for the Super Bowl

Even if your favorite team didn’t make it to the Super Bowl it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t watch. Try these appetizers, enjoy the commercials and may the best team win!

I love nachos and I love sweet potatoes. This recipe for Loaded Sweet Potato Nachos is calling my name. Be sure to explore their blog for more awesome recipes.

Looking for a new salsa recipe? Try my roasted grape and jicama salsa!

Pretzel Bites? Yes. How about stuffed with pepper jack cheese? Head here for the recipe.

French onion soup is too much work Super Bowl Sunday, but how about French onion soup wonton bites? Climbing Grier Mountain has the recipe for you.

Do you like mozzarella cheese sticks, but don’t like the calories? Try Averie Cooks recipe for skinny mozzarella cheese sticks. Only 110 calories each!