When I host large parties or get togethers, I like to serve mostly finger foods and small bites. They make for much easier enjoyment while mingling and chatting with friends, and the small portions allow guests to try many foods without filling up too quickly. However, I sometimes tire of the staple foods that make an appearance on nearly every party spread. Veggie trays, spinach dip, chips and salsa – they can be overdone. I enjoy the challenge of coming up with a fresh new appetizers that can bring new life to the table.
This is my rendition of the classic meat and potato combination, gussied up and ready for its rise to instant popularity. Rich, buttery bites of mashed potatoes topped with mouth-watering braised short ribs and a cabernet reduction? What could be better. I’ll tell you what. All of the components can be made in advance and then rewarmed and assembled just before party time. Sophisticated entertaining made even simpler? I’ll take it.