Spring is one of the most fun seasons to entertain! I love the warm sunlight that filters through the trees, the sound of twittering birds and beautiful bouquets of the freshest blooms. This time of year begs for outdoor parties, late afternoon tea, or brunch that invites guests to linger for a few hours.
Entertaining at home doesn't have to be complex or stressful, and this is one simple set up that you can pull together in just a few minutes, so you can enjoy the time with your guests.
Strawberry Tea Sandwiches
Ingredients
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
24 slices thin white bread, crusts removed
15 sliced fresh strawberries
Garnish: fresh baby basil leaves
Instructions
In the work bowl of a food processor, place cream cheese, mayonnaise, and salt. Process until smooth, stopping to scrape sides of bowl. Stir in basil.
Spread cream cheese mixture onto half of bread slices. Top with sliced strawberries. Cover with remaining bread slices. Cut into triangles. Cover with a damp paper towel, and store in a sealed container to keep bread from drying out. Garnish with basil, if desired. Serves 12
Turkey, Apple & Brie Sandwiches
Ingredients
Smoked turkey, thinly sliced
1 french baguette
2 apples, thinly sliced
1 wedge Brie cheese
Honey to garnish
Instructions
Slice baguette in half and cut each half into 6-7 small pieces. Layer open face sandwiches with turkey, apple slices, and brie slices. Secure with a toothpick. Drizzle with honey to serve.