It was my good friend’s birthday recently and we threw a party chez paul riane & moose to celebrate. the food took on a bit of a middle eastern feel with dolmas, spicy hummus and stuffed dates, and was definitely a crowd pleaser.

spicy hummus

in a food processor combine:

• 1 can chickpeas
• juice from 1 lemon
• 1tsp salt
• 1tsp mild paprika
• 1/4tsp cayenne
• 2-3 cloves garlic
• 1/4C olive oil
• 1/4C chopped fresh parsley

adjust to taste and consistency.  ever since my mom got me a food processor for christmas years ago i have been on the prowl for bean dips, and i must say, this will replace my old white bean standby.   the cayenne really adds a nice kick and w/my sensitive palette, i stuck to the recipes, but im sure it could handle a pinch or two extra.  i also made the old stand by pita chips which can be made easily by cutting up pita into wedges.  coating each w/some olive oil, s & p, and italian seasoning. bake at 350F for about 5 min per side.

Dates Stuffed with Parmesan Slivers and Pecans

• 24 large dates
• 2oz chunk of parm
• 24 whole pecans

with a sharp knife, cut a slit in each of the dates an remove the pits. using a veggie peeler, cut the parm into thin ribbons.  stuff each date with 1 nut and as many cheese ribbons as will fit.  

this is a delicious and versatile treat.  the extreme sweetness of the dates and the saltiness of the cheese combine to perfection in your mouth and looks beautiful.  get creative and try other salty hard cheese such as manchego, and mix and match nuts, walnuts would also be delish!

these are great finger foods and really cute for hosting cocktail parties