So I’m throwing a Christmas party this weekend, and I’m getting the menu together tonight. This is a late party with appetizer-type foods and maybe a soup (either chili or a cheese soup, if I can find a good recipe) and lots of adult beverages.
What I have so far (without actual recipes nearby):
–Pesto torte. You take three measures of cream cheese and blend one up with sun-dried tomatoes, one with pesto, and either leave one plain or blend it with parmesan cheese. Pour one layer into a springform pan and freeze it, then add another layer and freeze it again, then add the last layer and chill until set. I’ve never done this, but it looks good.
–Rosemary walnuts. These are simple and go over well. You mix shelled walnuts with butter, dried rosemary (actually better than fresh here, I’ve tried both), salt, and a little cayenne. Roast them until the house smells good.
–This cheese plate and fruit compote.
–Probably some hummus, because it takes all of five minutes to make and everybody always freaks out about how good it is.
Cocktail-wise, I thought I might do a Poinsettia as a signature cocktail–cranberry juice and orange liqueur topped with sparkling wine.
What else should I serve? What are you serving at yours?