“Warming the House” last Saturday
When one of your adult kids changes apartments and “needs” a housewarming party, you bring the food! This was so much fun and all made in advance so that I could enjoy the party, naturally. My husband did grill the pork tenderloin at the party but my job was done. Since we first eat with our eyes, I like lots of color, texture and flavor. Oh, let me also add height to that list. My wrought iron layered plate holder for the Grilled Nectarine Burrata is fun and takes up less space than a big tray. This adds interest to the table as do the Watermelon holding the Fruit Salad and the metal cowboy hat holding the Cheesy Beer Dip and Ranch Pretzels. The Monster Cookies sported the colors of the two teams of these two kids – Broncos and Packers. I spend more time than I want to admit sorting m&m’s. Hummus – ditch the bowl and spread it out on a pretty cutting board or tray. Then display the dippers as shown in the photo. This is WAY more interesting than a boring bowl. The Grilled Vegetables are done in advance in a grilling basket that I have mentioned before. LOVE these! The Brownie and Strawberry Kabobs have become an entertaining staple because we love them so much. This time I made the brownies gluten free to accommodate some of the guests. I also used gluten free baguettes for the Bruschetta, found at a specialty store. Somehow the Brie dish and Pork Tenderloin were camera shy this time around, sorry! But you get the idea how to put on a fun, colorful and filling spread of eclectic choices that can withstand a few hours sitting on a table. (For the recipes not linked here, you may find them in Eclectic Entertaining – Small Plates & Dainty Desserts.
The printed menu you see has a few benefits – it keeps me organized so I don’t forget something, it tells the guests what they are eating and lastly, I file it away to remember what an awesome party I pulled off!
As always, keep it fun and keep it eclectic! Barbara
