Here is a recipe I have made for numerous parties and have been asked for the recipe time and again!  I found it on the internet and am happy to share with you!  I hear it is a new favorite at the Providence Fire Department!

FIG and Olive Tapenade

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 cup chopped dried figs
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2/3 cup chopped kalamata olives
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
  1. Combine figs and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, and cook until tender, and liquid has reduced. Remove from heat, and stir in the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, thyme, and cayenne. Add olives and garlic, and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover, and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to blend.
  2. Unwrap cream cheese block, and place on a serving platter. Spoon tapenade over cheese. Serve with slices of French bread or crackers.
  3. I HAVE BEEN TOLD (although I have not tried this myself)!  This also goes over any chicken, pork or pasta dish!

 

                Try this quick and easy recipe for your next get together!

Sausage Cheese Balls

2lbs sausage (cooked, out of skin)

1 1/2 cups all purpose baking mix

4 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

1/2 cup finely chopped celery

1/4 cup finely chopped garlic

Mix the above ingredients together and form into balls (a mellon baller works great!)  Bake for 15 minutes in the oven at 375 degrees on an ungreased cookie sheet.  Place on a party tray with toothpicks and a spicy dijion or soy dipping sauce for extra flair!

Simple, quick and delish!

 

So, are you wondering what to bring to the next party you have been invited to ?

Well, first of all, you are NOT required to bring anything unless you offered to or been requested to.  A simple "thank-you" is absolutely appropriate!

If you feel you need to bring something, that's fine.  Do try to put thought into it, for example, if the person like wine, coffee or sweets that would be appropriate. Do not bring recycled gifts or assign someone else to pick up your gift.  If you want to get a hostess gift, pick it out yourself!  Try to stay away from food (because of allergies and dietary restrictions) or anything religious, unless you know the person well enough.

Be sure to respond to your invitation by the RSVP date.  If there is no date stated, please let the Host know as soon as you know you can or cannot make it.

Be courteous!  Greet the Host/Hostess when you arrive and be sure to thank them for having you before you leave the party!

Now stop reading and get to your event!