one last summer soiree

Steve & I have made it a tradition to host a neighborhood get-together each year.  We’ve found that early/mid September is a perfect time since it’s technically still summer, yet everyone is back in town from their summer rendezvous.   Each neighbor brings sweet & savory finger foods to the party and this is what I whipped up this year.

I’ve always noticed that cucumbers are a fairly popular choice on the traditional vegetable/dip platters so when these cuties appeared in my ‘easy appetizer search‘ it was a no-brainer.  Once again, they’ve got great presentation & are simple to make… 2 important things I look for in all my recipes.  I filled mine with hummus but here are some other great ideas you could try too.

We offered up a number of bottled drinks but I also wanted to make a fun fruity drink (and have an excuse to buy a dozen canning jars to be used as glasses)  This peach sangria was a big hit.

2 bottles of white wine of your choice (or 1 large one)

2  cups peach schnapps

1 cup frozen lemonade concentrate

2 nectarines, sliced

1 cup green or red grapes, whole or sliced

Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher. Cover and chill at least 2 hours then serve over ice.

I also made the always popular caramel apple flower.

It turned out to be a lovely day catching up with everyone & hearing about their latest adventures.  It was also a great opportunity for Jule to meet all her American neighbors.  Gus, on the other hand was pretty much on plate patrol the entire afternoon ;-)

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