Peanuts and Raisins

Sigh, the (almost) last card got in the mail today (let’s call it a New Year’s card), most of the presents are wrapped, work stuff is pretty much wrapped-up as well, the tree is up, cards are scattered throughout the house and I even managed to go grocery shopping. Why the ‘laundry list’? And what does this have to do with peanuts and raisins? I’m entertaining tonight…. as in having a few friends over (at this moment in time my ability to BE entertaining is up for serious debate). I’m out of steam. While jostling my way through the isles of the Coop this afternoon I passed these Spanish peanuts and what my mother used to call ‘Sultanas’. This was her default dish, and it always works. After the crush of the last few weeks, I need some no-brainer party food.

What you will need:

• A bowl
• Peanuts
• Raisins
• Friends

Method:

• Put stuff in bowl and serve.

Now how refreshing was that?! The party has started! Please tell me that life does not need to be elaborate. Why use exhaustion as an avoidance mechanism? Friends will bring stuff (if properly trained- and/ or raised right) and it’s time to relax.

I have some carrots, Persian Cucumbers, celery, cherry tomatoes and bell peppers ready to keep company with bean dip (which seems doable now that I’ve got the peanut thing under control), and if my energy holds up I may even make a frittata or some little toasts with something on top (rub toasted slices with the cut side of a garlic clove and drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle a little kosher salt). Oh! Then there’s always the cheese sticks…

Are you beginning to see how this works? Once chilled, getting ready isn’t such a chore. Pretty soon the neighbors will be here doing what friends do… eating a bit, drinking a bit and being very happy to wish each other all good wishes for the season.

All good wishes to you too! Now where did I put that Christmas CD of Ella and Louis?