Southern Hospitality

The phone rings, a few nice words are exchanged along with the pleasantries of chit chat. Then, you end the conversation with a "see you in a bit!" Last minute company in an unexpected home is a nice surprise, but it throws us into a whirlwind of panic. Last minute dishes need to be put away, quick run through of the bathrooms, toys go into odd places that you swear you'll remember where you've put them, but we all know we will be searching frantically for later! As for me, I was taught that in a good Southern home, always have something to eat. Whether it's fresh cookies, a cheese ball with crackers, fruit salad, or the infamous block of white stiff cream cheese bathed in some kind of jelly or bottled sauce, something was brought out and placed on a platter.
I love to play hostess, and I have decided that I not only wanted to be prepared for unexpected guests, parties, or impromptu get together, but I wanted to wow the crowd. That doesn't always mean a fabulous beef wellington or decedent 3 layer cake, but I have learned that fresh food and fresh ideas that are packed with flavor can speak volumes. A little extra effort and a few additional minutes in preparation not only gives others a delicious treat, but it also shows others that they were worth the extra effort. People appreciate efforts and they always notice when you have put just a little extra care in the anticipation of their arrival.
Reach beyond the cheese ball, and past the jar of salsa. When your at the store, grab a specialty bag of pita or sweet potato chips to keep on hand. Stock the fridge and pantry with assorted nuts, fresh cut vegetables, rich sour cream, and local herbs. Try wondering over to the specialty cheese selection and olive bar at the market. These things are always sure to be turned into a fabulous quick spread or fabulous anti-pasta platter of some kind, and if no company calls or parties are scheduled, you have wonderful snacks for the kids or at home movie nights!
No matter where you live, or who you entertain for, bring a little Southern hospitality into your home. A little extra effort speaks volumes, and it is truly the little things that make people smile.



Roasted Pepper and Walnut Spread

12oz jar Grilled Piquillo Peppers( by the jarred roasted peppers or in the ethnic section of the store) (can use roasted red's)
5 garlic cloves
3 Serrano peppers
1 lg Poblano pepper, roasted and peeled
5 3" Hatch Chilies, roasted, and peeled
1/4c packed fresh Basil
1/2c. packed, fresh Parsley
1c. fresh Cilantro
2 Bay leaves
1tsp salt
1tsp Mexican Oregano
2c. Toasted walnuts
1/4c. Olive Oil
juice of 2 medium limes

-Roast Peppers over hot grill until charred. Place in a resealable bag and let sit 5 minutes. Peel away black skin and remove seeds.
-Toast walnuts over low heat in a large skillet just until they are aromatic
-Place all ingredients except oil in a food processor
-Pulse until finely chopped.
-With motor running, slowly add oil.
-Serve at room temperature with pita chips and blanched asparagus