Small Plates, Small Bites

I know, I know...I left you hanging for a few days with your pad sparkling in the warm glow of candlelight, the cd player all programmed with tunes to keep everyone in the mood and more than a few party frocks to ensure all eyes will be on you and I neglected to tell you what to feed your treasured guests. Well have no fear, I have returned. Where have I been, you ask? You guessed it...what happens at the mall, stays at the mall.

Now my precious party-throwers, let's talk food. When it comes to food for a cocktail party remember this simple phrase: small plates, small bites. Whatever you deem table worthy your guests should be able to eat in two bites, three at the most. Cocktail parties are about socializing, connecting and having an absolute blast. You should have a cocktail in one hand (at all times!) and the other free for...well that's for you to decide. Here are some ideas, remember small plates, small bites, BIG FLAVOR!

1st row: Spiced Party Mix, Crudites with Lemon-Pesto Goat Cheese Dip and Plum-Glazed Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms
2nd row: Cheese, Herb and Sun-dried Tomato Phyllo Rolls, Potato Latkes with Watercress, Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad and Curried Scallop Cakes
3rd row: Crispy Shrimp with Citrus Glaze, Skewered Rosemary Shrimp with Mint Pesto and Dukkah-Crusted Lamb Chops with Pomegranate Molasses

For a little something sweet

Toffee Crunch Caramel Cheesecake


Pecan-Fig Pie with Brandied Whipped Cream


Chocolate Panna Cotta Layer Cake


Coconut-Sweet Potato Cheesecake

These last two dessert options can do double duty as favors. Just wrap in colored cellophane and tie with a pretty ribbon!


Bittersweet Chocolate Truffles


Gingerbread and Citrus Sugar Cookies