Goat Cheese

For this fabulous salad we used red onions, beets, zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, but any mix of summer vegetables would work. The salad gets served with grilled bread and is nice with a white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc.

The genteel ladies’ tea, at which guests wore hats and white gloves and nibbled tiny sandwiches, was very much a part of home entertaining during the thirties. Borrowed from the British, it was a trend that flickered and then died out, but has now come back in homes and hotels across the country. These modern tea sandwiches are more savory than sweet, and would go well with a glass of Sherry if you’re in need of something a little stronger than Earl Grey.

The cheese-filled salmon rolls are sliced into rounds for a lovely presentation. They make an elegant appetizer and would be delicious served with Pinot Noir.

Sautéed vegetables are piled atop a creamy goat cheese-custard filling.

Offer a small salad of baby greens with a shallot and tarragon vinaigrette.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Buy steaks that are at least 1 1/4 inches thick; that way, they can be seared without getting overdone. The Mediterranean-flavored butter adds a great taste accent. Also offer mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli, and drink a Burgundy or Pinot Noir.

(Warm Potato Goat-Cheese Salads with Thyme and Niçoise Olives)

Serve this appetizer with crusty bread and enjoy.

A terrific appetizer for parties.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

What to drink: Delicate blanc de blancs Champagne pairs well with these hors d'oeuvres.

A delicious and much lighter version of a favorite dish. Serve this gratin with roast chicken, pork, or beef.

An elegant appetizer from Fleur de Lys in San Francisco.