Let’s face it… the current economic news (not to mention our household budgets) have the affect of dampening autumn spirits. We’re not even sure how we’ll manage the holidays at this rate, let alone enjoy the prelude to the holidays. As I whittle my own budget, I’ve discovered a way to entertain simply, easily, and on a shoestring! How? Glad you asked! Plan and throw a casual wine party at your home on a weekend evening. I can hear you now. “WAIT JUST A MINUTE! THAT’S EXPENSIVE!” Well, if you’re locked into a traditional idea, it might be. However, if you’re willing to be creative and resourceful? And do a tiny bit of pre-planning? It isn’t as costly—or impossible—as it might sound.  

Start by picking a date at least two weeks in advance. Most of us need a few weeks’ worth of notice. Print simple invitations on your computer, or better yet, send email invitations. Request that everyone attending bring a bottle of wine of his or her choice. Set a price limit on the individual bottle of, say, twenty-five dollars? Once your invitations have been sent, it’s time to plan your menu. We’re talking appetizers and snacks here, so you won’t break your grocery budget to host the party. Recipes for a quick and easy appetizer follows. Throw in a fresh veggie plate, sliced cheese and perhaps bread crisps or bread sticks? You’re set to go!

Italian Sausage, Fruit & Syrah Nibbles

Part One:

• 1 lb. Fresh, mild, Italian sausage
• ½ cup Falcon Nest 2003 (or other) Syrah
• Water
• 3-4 medium, fresh apples (any kind), diced with peels on
• 3 oz. dark raisins

Part Two:

•  
  • 1 long, sourdough baguette (locals can buy San Luis Sourdough)
  • 1 cup shredded, low fat mozzarella cheese

 Ahead of time preparation: Poke uncooked sausages with a fork several times and soak in a glass bowl or pan with ½ cup of Syrah plus enough water to cover for at least an hour in the refrigerator. The sausages can be soaked all-day or overnight.  Preheat a skillet over medium heat on your stovetop, remove the soaked sausages with tongs, and brown in skillet on all sides. This should take no more than ten minutes. Transfer the sausages to a 9 X 11 inch baking dish, and bake in a 325-degree oven for approximately 25 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool until you are able to handle them without burning yourself. Core and dice fresh apples, then place the diced apples in a small pot on your stove. Dice the cooled sausages into tiny pieces. Add to apples. Pour about half of the pan juices over the apples and meat. Bring the ingredients to boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add raisins, reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring a few times. Most of the liquid should be reduced, and the apples should have softened. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool. The mixture will thicken as it cools. 

While your mixture is cooling, slice the sourdough baguette into thin slices, arrange on two cookie sheets and place into a 325-degree oven for 5-10 minutes to make toasted bread crisps. Remove from the oven and spread each crisp with approximately 1 teaspoon of the sausage fruit mixture, sprinkle lightly with shredded mozzarella, and return to the oven for an additional five minutes (or until the cheese melts). Turn the oven off; remove pans from the oven and transfer the “pizza style” treats to a serving platter or platters.

 Author’s note: This recipe makes enough treats to serve a good-sized crowd on a bare bones budget! Everyone enjoys a fantastic evening for very little money, and you become the star of the show. OK… well… of course the wine and food are the real stars of the show, but your friends (and family) will appreciate your hospitality, and you didn’t break the bank to entertain!