It's party time!

The weather finally doesn't suck, and it's time to go outside with your drinks and snacks and invite some people over. I love outdoor parties, but I hate being stuck in the kitchen while my husband yucks it up with our friends. So, I put out some red and white wine, an infused vodka and some tonic water, and a couple of easy hors d'oeuvres that I can make before the guests arrive so I can put my feet up when the party starts.

Walnut-feta spread (inspired by Moosewood Lodge in Ithaca, NY)
8 oz. feta cheese
1 large garlic cover, peeled and roughly chopped
1/8 cup walnuts
1 tablespoon milk
Generous handful of fresh oregano (or 1 tsp. dried oregano)
Generous handful fresh parsley
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Olive oil
Directions: combine garlic and walnuts in food processor 30 seconds. Add cheese and milk, process until mostly smooth (there will be some lumps from the walnuts). Add herbs and cayenne, process again until thoroughly blended. Transfer spread to a small serving bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Serve with grilled bread, warm pita bread, hearty crackers, or any other dipping carb!
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Tuscan white bean dip
1 can cannellini beans
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 garlic clove, peeled and roughly chopped
½ teaspoon olive oil (optional)
Salt and crushed red pepper to taste
Directions: place all ingredients in food processor and blend until smooth. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite dipping carb.