Labor Day is right around the corner and summer is winding down. If you are entertaining this weekend for an end of summer get-together, these wines and appetizers are all you need to get the party started!  I recently visited some friends in Napa Valley and sipped a few wines from  The Terraces at Quarry Vineyard.  This unique winery produces small, handcrafted lots of Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel.  The property is also filled with gorgeous fruit trees and there is even an old root cellar where they have been aging their own balsamic vinegar for 13 years!  Check out this photo gallery on our Facebook page for more gorgeous shots from Napa!

This weekend, open up a bottle of your favorite wine and make a few simple appetizers.  It is amazing how using just a few quality ingredients you can create mouth-watering cuisine.  Here are a few recipes to try!

PROSCIUTTO-WRAPPED MELON AND BREADSTICKS

These are popular and classic appetizers that I never tire of, and everyone always loves them.  There is really no recipe, and they look so colorful and beautiful on a platter, and served with a good wine.

Best prosciutto you can find

Slices of cantaloupe and honeydew

Best crispy breadsticks you can find

Cracked pepper (optional)

Good balsamic vinegar (optional)

Simply wrap pieces of prosciutto around slices of cantaloupe and honeydew melons, and around breadsticks.  Arrange attractively on a platter.  Some people love cracked pepper on top, and drizzled with balsamic vinegar.  It’s up to you!

BITE-SIZED BOCCONCINI APPETIZERS

These one-bite appetizers are always a hit.  They are so easy to make and can be prepared ahead of party time and refrigerated.  If desired, you can buy the marinated bocconcini which already have oil on them, so you won’t even need to brush them with extra olive oil.  Either way, your guests will love them!

Fresh water-packed mozzarella balls (bocconcini)

Fresh basil leaves

Cherry tomatoes

Olive oil for brushing

Coarse salt

Freshly ground black pepper

You can make as many as desired.  Using a small toothpick, simply skewer on one piece each of bocconcini, basil leaf, and cherry tomato.  If not using the already marinated cheese balls, brush each with olive oil.  Sprinkle each lightly with coarse salt and cracked pepper.  Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until party time.

Categories: Around the World, Better Recipes, Celebrations and Parties, Dazzling Drinks, Fast and Fabulous, Fresh and Healthy, Tasty Travel | Tags:
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