This weekend my dear friend Andrew and I hosted a very lively gathering of friends on Mendenhall to celebrate the holiday season. Oh dear, was it a party full of laughter and love. It is hard to believe we fit so many people into my little house on a hill – indeed, it tested its 1926 bones. It was so wonderful to have a house full of friends from all parts of our lives. I hope our guests had as much fun as we did!

As you can expect, I created a big spread of food for the soiree. To give myself a break, I relied on a couple large precooked items to stretch my time in the kitchen. Andrew had the great idea of ordering a full pastrami from Katz Deli in New York City. They shipped it overnight and I just heated it up and sliced right before the party started. It was a huge hit – and was for excellent conversation!

In addition to the pastrami, I purchased a whole cedar smoked salmon from The Fresh Market. It was a the perfect presentation and the most tasty smoked salmon I’ve ever had. To accompany the pastrami and salmon, I made two large artichoke dips, countless stuffed mushrooms and batched and batches of shortbread cookies and fancy party mix. You the know the party is good when all the food is gone… every last bite!

Andrew took care of the bar with his most famous eggnog (I’m hoping he will share the recipe!), cranberry vodka punch and plenty of wine.

Things are finally quiet and clean on Mendenhall after the big bash. I’ll share the recipes this week. Sending warm wishing and holiday greetings to you!

Oh Deer! Holiday Party on Mendenhall Menu:

• The Fresh Market Cedar Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese and Caper Spread
• Katz Deli Pastrami – all the way from New York City!
• New Garden Bagels for slathering
• Artichoke Dip with Winter Crudite
• Sundried Tomato Stuffed Mushrooms
• Assorted Cookies with Candied Fruits  and Nuts
• Fancy Party Mix
• Andrew’s Famous Eggnog
• Cranberry Vodka Punch