Dinner Party Menu

I recently hosted (not catered) a small dinner party of 5 for my dear friend’s birthday. She has some strict food likes/dislikes as well as food allergies, so taking that all into consideration, I wanted to do something fun for her. Not wanting to be stuck in the kitchen when my guests were there, I needed to think of things that could be prepared ahead of time and/or could be finished quickly or reheated right before people arrive.

APPETIZERS

• Kale chips: Made the morning of the party: washed and dried well, flat kale leaves (no stalks!) tossed with olive oil, salt and pepper. Baked in one layer on low heat for a long time. Light, airy, crispy and salty. A great starter and conversation piece as they were served standing upright in a tall glass. *Caution*: Tough to eat in mixed company as they tend to get stuck in your teeth. Have toothpicks handy.

• Grandma’s Swedish Meatballs: Ok, so this was my version of Grandma’s recipe. And, frankly, they’re not classic Swedish meatballs, which are often in a cream sauce. These are actually sweet and sour meatballs. (I never did understand why she called them 'Swedish') My guests do not eat ‘beast’ so I used ground turkey. Earlier in the day I made a basic meatball recipe (ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg), formed them into tiny, single bite size meatballs. Baked in a 400 degree oven for about 15 minutes then transferred to a crock pot where the sauce was already waiting. Crock pot on low, these were ready and waiting for us once the party started 5 hours later. These were a huge hit.

• Cheese and Crackers: Yes, it’s more than ok to take some help from the store when having a party. 3 different cheese in varying textures and flavors – stinky, creamy, aged, etc. The plate was garnished with a mixture of dried fruit. *Note*: One of the smellier hard cheeses on the plate wound up in a little of the sweet and sour sauce on my plate. A delicious accident!

SALAD

Fresh baby spinach, dried cranberries and candied walnuts in a pomegranate vinaigrette.

Candied Walnuts
1 cup walnut pieces
¼ cup superfine sugar
Place both the walnuts and sugar in a dry, non-stick pan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until sugar has melted and walnuts are coated. Do not let burn.

MAIN COURSE

Chicken Pot Pie with a puff pastry crust (specific request by the birthday girl)

DESSERT

A giant cupcake-cake made by the same friend who made the chef’s hat cake to the left. We make a great team!