Appetizers

It was 11:47 PM on a random Wednesday in early October, and I had a sudden, undeniable craving for deviled eggs. Not just any deviled … Read more

I was standing in the middle of the party supply aisle last September, holding a bag of plastic spider rings in one hand and a … Read more

This was supposed to be a full-blown, multi-course dinner. I had the menu planned for days—seared scallops, a creamy risotto, some fancy pan sauce situation … Read more

The power went out halfway through my Halloween party prep. I stood there in the dark, holding a package of crescent roll dough that was … Read more

I was digging through my freezer last Tuesday, looking for a bag of frozen peas that I knew was in there somewhere, when my hand … Read more

I had this rule for years. I refused to call anything “Friendsgiving” because it felt like the sort of word a greeting card company invented … Read more

So, here’s the thing. I was making my usual batch of spiced nuts for a Halloween party, feeling pretty confident about my method. My friend … Read more

I was standing in the grocery store aisle last October, staring at a jar of olives, when the smell of vinegar hit me—and suddenly I … Read more

The power went out halfway through my anniversary dinner prep last February. I’d planned this whole fancy three-course thing, candles everywhere, the works. Then, boom … Read more

My brother-in-law, Mark, had a very firm stance on fondue. He swore he hated it for years. “It’s just melted cheese you have to work … Read more