One of the most fun and easy ways to entertain is to host an open house.
Its casual “drop-in-when-you-can” spirit offers a much needed respite during the hustle and bustle of the season, giving friends and neighbours the opportunity to catch up, all while nibbling and sipping festive fare. Best of all, an open house gives the host a chance to enjoy the festivities too.
With no pressure to worry about the timing of courses or who’s sitting where at the table, this kind of party really can be about relaxing and having fun.
Keep the menu simple, and focus on finger foods, since guests will be balancing eating, talking and drinking while standing.
Another useful idea is to feature one delicious and unexpected appetizer on your buffet, such as this grape relish. It’s delightful as a colourful topper on crostini, and makes a wonderful accompaniment to meats and cheeses. Plus, it’s simple to make and easy to serve.
For the ultra-perfect offering, include a bowlful of relish on your buffet platter along with artfully arranged crostini, assorted cheeses, ham, pate, grape clusters and a mix of interesting mustards.
Grape Relish
Ingredients:
- 2 cups finely chopped red and green seedless California grapes
- 2 tbsp minced shallot
- 2 tsp chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tbsp sherry vinegar
- 1 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp safflower or vegetable oil
- 1/4 tsp each salt and freshly ground pepper
- 1 baguette, sliced thinly
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped grapes, shallot, thyme, sherry vinegar, sugar, oil, salt and pepper.
- Transfer to a small serving bowl and set aside. Makes 2 cups.
- To make the crostini, preheat the oven to 350 F.
- Spread baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast until crisp, about 10 minutes. Let cool.
Serves 8.
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