Finger Foods
An Article by Marie Simmons

I'm always looking for simple ideas for appetizers or hors d'oeuvres. Popularly known as finger foods these small bites are intended to tease and heighten the appetite before dinner while guests enjoy a glass of wine or other cool drink before dinner. Not one to put out a chunk of cheese and some crackers I prefer to offer something interesting – and not quite as filling – for guests to enjoy and even talk about as they get acquainted.

Recently I attended a dinner given by A.G. Ferrari stores in the San Francisco Bay area. The event was a promotion for Grana Padano the delectable Italian cow's milk hard grating cheese that is often thought of as the step child to Parmigiano Reggiano. Made in the same way as Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Padano is made outside the specific area designated for Parmigiano Reggiano production.

Gianluca Guglielmi, the chef at AG Ferrari made thin cheese crisps with the Grana Padano and stood them on edge in halved fresh Black Mission figs. Great looking and delicious.

Recipes

• Crisp Cheese Crisp and Figs
• Muhamarra (Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Dip)
• Italian Style Stuffed Eggs

Copyright © 2003 by Marie Simmons. All rights reserved.