I’m gonna let you in on a little secret of ours… most of the time if you walked in our house 30 minutes before our guests are to arrive, you would not think it was possible we were about to throw a shin-dig. A book may be in the works, “You Should Have Seen This House 30 Minutes Ago!”, we will see. We have become ninja masters at last minute quick clean up and simple but elegant food and drink.
Let’s start with house prep. No, it is not fun and no one wants to do it, but it has to be done. First thing, music. Yes, turn your tunes on and get your body moving. It seriously makes everything better! We even will start with a 1 minute dance party. Now, just make sure the main living and entertaining areas are your priority. As you pick up, have a basket or bag for each room things belong in. We have children, so they are always in on this with us. We use this time to work as a team. We give everyone a specific job. Shoes, couch blankets, fluff the pillows, sweep the porch, dishes, and guest bathroom. It gets done quick and you get in the party mood with your groovy tunes!
Now, on to my favorite, the food and drink! We try to always have easy ingredients to put together a simple- but oh so good- charcuterie board. A crusty loaf of bread with white vinegar of Modena and balsamic for dipping; add a cluster of grapes, a basket of strawberries, and a handful of nuts. Butter crackers + red pepper jelly + havarti= heaven in your mouth! A crowd favorite is Goat Cheese Toasties (recipe below). I also keep artichoke hearts, stuffed olives, and pickles stocked up. As for drinks, red and white wine is on hand for an easy pour. My man likes to keep Corona or Dos Equis in the fridge, but he’s always ready to whip you up a yummy cocktail. Iced Tea, lemonade, and a pitcher of lemon cucumber (and mint if you have some) water are always a great addition to your beverage station. Shake up some lemonade with iced tea for an Arnold Palmer that kids and adults will love! However your family gathers, last minute or well planned, be yourself and INVITE! Everyone wants to be invited. Be that friend. Be that neighbor.
Boda Bing! It’s Party Time!
Goat Cheese Toasties
1 French or Cibatta Baguette
1 Goat Cheese Log
Balsamic Glaze
Preheat Oven to 400 degrees
Cut your baguette into 1″ slices and lay out on cookies sheet. Spread goat cheese on each slice. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese starts to brown. Drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately.
Notes:
I have made these as croutons to top a simple spring mix salad tossed in a balsamic dressing.
You can use different flavors of goat cheese-especially for holidays and seasonally. My son loves the honey goat cheese and I love the onion and chive. In the winter and fall blueberry and cranberry goat cheese is amazing! You can also top with honey and fresh thyme instead or with the balsamic glaze. This is such and easy, but beautiful snack that’s perfect to make your own! I hope you enjoy!