Expert: Suzette - 2/18/2002

Question
Hi Suzette,
I'm planning a dinner party for 12 to be held a couple of weeks from now, and would like some advice about the menu.  I'm Italian, and always seem to gravitate towards Italian recipes.  So far, I have decided to make homemade ravioli as the main course, tomato and mozarella salad, and tiramisu and fruit salad for dessert (my constraints are I must cook vegetarian and must have one sugar free dessert for my pregnant coworker).  I would like to have a cold appetizer, a soup, and a side vegetable as well.  Any suggestions as to how I might fill in these parts of the menu?

Much thanks,
Jennifer

Answer
Hi Jennifer!

In keeping with your Italian theme, how about stuffed artichokes as an appetizer? I know it's not cold, but it would go so well! For a cold alternative, I would suggest a Clabrian Egg & Anchovy Antipasto.

For a soup, a Minestrone is always a classic. How about Roman peas or Courgettes Gratin (Zucchinis in a cheese sauce) as a side vegetable? The green would look nice beside the foods you are planning.

Let me know if you would like the recipes for any of these.

Suzette