Canapes and appetizers are essential elements of any successful gathering, but crafting the perfect selection can often feel overwhelming. In her latest column for Homes & Gardens, Anna Last shares her no-fail approach to creating delightful hors d’oeuvres, drawing on insights from seasoned professionals and her own extensive experience in catering.
Last emphasizes the importance of simplicity when it comes to canapes. With guests often overwhelmed by complex presentations, she advocates for a straightforward, yet impressive approach to entertaining. The right selection of flavors and textures can elevate even the simplest ingredients into memorable bites.
Stocking the Pantry
To ensure that gatherings go off without a hitch, Last recommends maintaining a well-stocked pantry. Key items to have on hand include olives, nuts, tins of anchovies, and a selection of quality cheeses. For last-minute preparations, she keeps rolls of slice-and-bake cheese coins in the freezer, which can be quickly baked for an impressive touch.
An easy yet elegant cheese plate is another option that Last favors. By investing in one high-quality cheese instead of several mediocre ones, hosts can create a visually appealing and delicious offering. She suggests pairing this with olives or a selection of charcuterie to enhance the experience. A classic combination of smoked salmon with toast points, capers, and horseradish also makes for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
For those seeking a more substantial option, Last’s chicken salad sandwiches are a reliable favorite. By elevating store-bought chicken salad with fresh herbs and a touch of lemon, hosts can provide a satisfying finger food that guests will love.
Decadent Indulgences
When hosting a small group, Last encourages splurging on luxurious items like caviar. By serving it with toast points and crème fraîche, hosts can create an extravagant experience with minimal effort. For those who enjoy seafood, baked oysters have recently gained popularity. Last suggests trying various recipes, including her own version of Oysters Bingo, which features a savory topping of spinach and cheese.
Homemade pâté is another standout item that Last recommends. She advises soaking chicken livers in brandy overnight for optimal flavor, and the results often garner compliments from guests. For an interactive experience, serving a carving station with Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano-Reggiano allows guests to enjoy the process of assembling their own bites.
As guests prepare for the main meal, Last advises sticking to one regional theme with the canape offerings. This could mean focusing solely on French cheeses or a Middle Eastern mezze spread.
For those planning a gathering, Last provides a useful guideline for calculating quantities. She suggests visualizing each item on a dinner plate to determine an appropriate amount. Aiming for 6-8 different items will ensure that guests have a variety of options, with some requiring simple assembly while others can be pre-cooked or presented as platters.
Simple Recipes to Impress
In her article, Last also shares a few of her favorite canape recipes, starting with Oysters Bingo. The dish incorporates sautéed spinach, mayonnaise, and cheese, baked until golden on fresh oysters. Another recipe features pan-fried chorizo deglazed with sherry vinegar, served alongside Spanish olives and tomato bread.
For those looking for an easy yet delightful option, Last recommends slice-and-bake cheese coins. These can be prepared in advance and baked right before serving, creating a fresh and impressive snack for guests.
As the holiday season approaches, Last reminds hosts to enjoy themselves and delegate responsibilities such as drinks and music. Proper planning ensures that gatherings remain enjoyable for everyone involved, including the host.
With practical advice and delectable recipe ideas, Anna Last’s column serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to elevate their entertaining game. For more inspiration on hosting and entertaining, follow her on social media or subscribe to her newsletter, Bread & Gravy.
