Notes from the Kitchen

• Chef's tip

  Chef's Tip

  Make it Simple:

  Prepared dips can be purchased from your supermarket. For a small gathering, check

  out the in-store salad bar where you can purchase small amounts of each item instead

  of buying an entire package of each. For added convenience, look for pre-cut

  vegetables and fruits in the produce section of your supermarket. Check out the store's

  olive or salad bar for the marinated olives. Try serving an assortment of olive varieties,

  such as those flavored with crushed red pepper or herbs.

  Vary the Cheeses, Fruit & Vegetables:

  For a more interesting board, serve 2 or 3 kinds of cheeses featuring a variety of

  textures, shapes and flavors. Soft, semi-soft and firm cheese; cubes, slices, logs and

  wedges all add more interest. Choose fruits that are in season and have complementary

  flavors and shapes, such as clusters of grapes and sliced crisp apples. An assortment

  of vegetables adds both interest and crunch.

  Cheese Tip:

  For best flavor, let the cheeses sit for about 15 min. at room temperature before

  serving. If serving a wedge or full piece of cheese, be sure to place a knife on the board

  for each variety of cheese you are serving.