entertaining

january 2003

I don't know anyone who doesn't like soup-so when I want to entertain after the holidays and keep things simple after weeks of overindulgence, I usually turn to soup. In my dictionary, soup is comfort food. And it's so easy to make . . . ahead of time!

Although in years past, I have served soup from three large soup pots simmering on the stove with guests filling a mug for sipping or eating by spoon as they sit or stand in conversation groups, this year I decided to serve the first soup at the table and let my guests serve subsequent bowls/cups of soup to themselves from a buffet as their first soup plate was "magically" whisked away by the neighbor teenage helper I'd hired to bus the table and do the dishes. Crudités and a flavorful fat-free dip were offered as guests gathered and mingled about the kitchen, while I was putting the finishing touches on dinner. Dessert was made earlier in the day - a favorite of most everyone, Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake, this one made with polenta for a delicious difference in flavor and texture. So, whether you inviting friends to watch the Super Bowl or just wanting to have some fun and good food, think "soup!"   Crudités with Cucumber Dill Dip Asian Chicken Soup Shrimp Gumbo Lentil and Tomato Soup Breadsticks Fresh Pineapple Upside-Down Cake (for the recipes, click on the individual recipe above) FTG