It’s as certain as death and taxes that the older we get, the harder it is to impress our friends. With the years, come the experiences— so what once may have amazed us, now may be as ordinary as driving to the market. And this is most evident during gatherings and holidays with friends. What once impressed, now seems like the standard.

Remember the good ol’ days of our early 20’s when we could put out a homemade guacamole and our friends gleamed at us with awe and admiration? Ugh, me too. Nowadays, if you didn’t pick the avocados, lime, and cilantro from your own backyard you won’t get a second glance. (And don’t forget: must be organic and gluten-free!)

The difficult part of growing up and needing to do more to look awesome is the hard work and effort, ‘amiright’? Our lives have only become busier! So, we’re here to help you out with 5 simple and fun recipes that we’re sure will impress even your ‘foodiest’ of friends… Unless, maybe you are friends with Rachel Ray. In which case, she should be the one doing the cooking.

1 / SHRIMP TOSTADA BITES

Nom nom! Shrimp with avocado on a round tortilla crisp —who could ask for more yummy goodness in a single bite? The idea is minimal in its preparation, but the level of creativity in this snack is in your hands.

Spread some guacamole, homemade pico de gallo, or mango salsa on the chips. Add a healthy, simple and delicious dressing to the shrimp by whisking corn oil, lime juice, finely chopped garlic, parsley, salt and pepper and you’ll have everyone begging for more.

Another flavorful option is cooking your shrimp Spanish style (Al Ajillo Shrimp), and topping the chips with them, and you’ll have elegant, attractive and delicious canapés. You can find the recipe here.

2 / CHIMICHURRI DIP

Argentinians and their chimichurri— a love affair for the ages. It’s a national staple with the coolest name. It might as well be the only Argentinian topping, as far as salsas go, because no other condiment comes close. The typical ingredients include parsley, oregano, garlic, red peppers, corn oil and vinegar, and there’s really no better way to complement a steak… or an empanada… or even a piece of bread.

You can find the recipe here.

3 / MEXICAN CHOCOLATE SNOWMAN CAKE

It’s one thing to impress your friends, and it’s a whole another to show off. But if you’re the type that likes to really leave an impression, then we’ve got just the “show off” dish for you. The sweet, delicious, and adorable Mexican chocolate snowman cake will leave your guests wide-eyed and satisfied… and let’s face it, in absolute awe of you. The best part is that it’s not only festive, it’s easy! Just follow the simple steps in the video and you’ll never look like a bigger culinary rock star!

Find recipe here.

4 / MINI PULLED PORK BUNS

If you have a slow cooker, then honestly, you should never NOT be using it. And if you do have one, then you already know one of the easiest and most delicious dishes you can make in that bad boy is BBQ pulled pork. So, if you’re aiming to look like a rock star, put the pork roast in that slow cooker in advance and have some Hawaiian rolls and homemade slaw ready because nothing says “I’m cool” like homemade pulled pork buns. Make ‘em mini for convenience!

You can find the Adobo Pulled Pork Sandwich recipe here

5 / STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE DESSERT

This one’s an easy one; almost too easy. And it’s a dessert—because who doesn’t love some homemade dessert. All you need is diced strawberries, whipped cream, and white cake. We recommend baking your own white cake which is already easy-peasy, but if you’re in full laze mode (no judgment here) just buy some pre-made cake at the store. You pile the ingredients, layer by layer— cake, strawberry and cream and repeat as needed. The more layers the better! Hey, if you’re trying to impress… “go big or go home!”

Another great idea is to top muffins or ‘mantecadas’ with strawberries and cream. They are easy to make, they look gorgeous and taste delicious!

You can find the recipe here.