Summer time and the living is easy……one of my favorite songs. And one of my favorite philosophies too. One thing’s for sure, when it’s hot outside you don’t want to spend any more time in the kitchen than absolutely necessary. This is the time of year we change our first course at dinner at The White Oak Inn from a soup to an appetizer. People don’t want to eat rich and heavy food in hot weather, and we certainly don’t want to heat up the kitchen if we don’t have to! So over the next few days I’m going to share some of my favorite fast and easy summer appetizers. Most of them are spreads or dips. They’re equally at home spread on crackers, crostini or even raw vegetables.
Many of these recipes can be assembled in 10 minutes or less – perfect if you have unexpected company or to accompany before-dinner drinks on the porch or patio with your favorite companion.
Let’s start with a basic list of pantry staples that will ensure you’re ready to entertain at any time. Many of these are already cooking staples, so you may have them in stock already.
Canned or jarred artichoke hearts
Sundried tomatoes packed in oil
Canned cannelini beans
Fresh Cilantro
Cream Cheese
Sweet and Hot Pepper Relish or chutney
Assorted Cracker
Kalamata Olives
Green Olives
Fresh Tomatoes
Parmesan Cheese
Olive Oil
Balsamic Vinegar
Fresh or dried basil
Fresh or dried Oregano
Fresh Garlic Cloves
Next post – Marinated Cheese
The White Oak Inn
http://www.whiteoakinn.com/
Yvonne Martin
Bed and Breakfast Foodie