My friend Kathleen had the right idea to keep the heat down this summer. She turned the traditional "before the meal" Antipasto into the main meal and it was a hit.
Serve any combination of the following
Salami, smoked turkey or salmon, cocktail shrimp, capers, olives, variety of cheeses (but always include blue cheese and smoked gouda), dried and fresh fruit, nuts, cream cheese with herbs, marinated mushrooms, hummus, celery, carrots, pico de gallo, chips, toast points, fresh bread, or crackers.
To serve: Make one large tray or several smaller trays with different combinations of the food groups.
And don't forget the beverage: A jug of iced herbal tea with mint or lemonade with lavendar
For the "winers" try a Sauvignon Blanc or Syrah or be bold- Serve both!