Testing out a store-bought mezze platter.
It's not quite like sitting on a terrace on the Mediterranean, but it’s the next best thing!
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One of the things I love about a mezze platter is how everyone just goes crazy when you bring it to the table. It’s so simple to prepare, but it always looks incredibly impressive.
Last week, our neighbor’s family planned to stop by the barn for drinks, so I thought it was the perfect time to test out a Mediterranean mezze platter. I started with good-quality store-bought hummus, baba ganoush, and feta, then dressed them up so they didn’t look store-bought. Then, I filled in the rest of the board with olives, toasted pita triangles, cucumber spears, stuffed grape leaves, and tiny cherry tomatoes on the vine from the farmstand.
It’s not quite like sitting on a terrace on the Mediterranean, but it’s the next best thing!
Ask Ina:
“Saturday dinner parties are daunting! What’s another good time to have friends over?”
I always say that food is not about impressing people. It’s just the opposite — it’s about making them feel comfortable. Instead of having dinner parties on Saturday night, choose a time that has less social pressure and no one is expecting a three course meal. I like Saturday breakfast, because I can mix up the batter for Raspberry Corn Muffins beforehand and have a fresh fruit platter ready. All you have to do is drag a table out to the garden, and you’re done.
I also love a Sunday brunch, where it’s just soup or tea sandwiches, salad, a fruit and cheese platter, and a few cookies. Sunday brunch has a nice energy because people have finished their work. Guests stay for a few hours, then they’re on their way, and you still have Sunday evening ahead of you!
This Week’s Favorites:
I went to the restaurant on Shelter Island called Sunset Beach for the first time this summer. It overlooks the water and the sunset, and is like taking a trip to St. Barts without the plane ticket!
We watched Gentleman's Agreement last week. The movie is about antisemitism in the 1940s and stars Gregory Peck. It is so subtle and very well done.
Love the breakfast for dinner board. Growing up in the 60’s, we called it “AM in the PM” when we had French toast or pancakes for dinner! Yum 😋
Dear Ina,
I have watched you from the beginning and now, here you are on line. It’s great. I have all your cookbooks. Whenever I felt gloomy, seeing you always made me feel better! Thank you for all you have done.