Holiday Entertaining

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-164 -- More Projects »

Author Allana Baroni goes through the various trials of the holiday season and offers ways to cope. Planning ahead can help you enjoy the holidays, rather than endure them, she says.

If unexpected guests drop by, offer cocktails. The easiest cocktail to make is the martini, which requires only gin, vermouth and olives. A shaker isn't necessary. Just keep the gin in the freezer and all you'll need is a cup and strainer.

Easy Hors D'oeuvres

Figure A

Figure B

Figure C

Endive spears stuffed with blue cheese and a walnut is a rich hors d'oeuvre that is simple to make but has a wonderful presentation (figure A).
An antipasto platter can be tossed together with whatever is in the pantry: peppers, artichoke hearts, marinated mushrooms, sun-dried and fresh tomatoes (figure B) . Find these items at the grocery store and set aside for guests. The fresh tomatoes are coated with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Serve with crusty bread and Parmesan cheese.
Bruschetta is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for a holiday get-together. Start by rubbing crusty, toasted bread pieces with a raw garlic clove. Brush the toast with olive oil and top with fresh chopped basil combined with chopped Roma tomatoes (figure C).

Resources
Simplify the Holidays
by Allana Baroni (ISBN: 0762100974)
Reader's Digest Adult, 1998
Order this title.

Reader's Digest
Website: www.rd.com
Also in this Episode

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-164
•	Holiday Entertaining
•	Wrap It Up!
•	Update a Black Dress
•	Smart Solutions of the Day

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Holiday Entertaining

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