A Neighborly Dinner Party
My neighbor and friend Starr had a dinner party last night, where the food and company were excellent. Kathleen’s fruit salad was beautiful and delicious. The papaya was at the height of sweet juiciness. Francis made a wonderful green salad with herbs, mozzarella, tomatoes, and a great balsamic vinaigrette. Starr basted chicken breasts with barbecue sauce and gave them a turn on the grill.
With careless nonchalance, the bachelor Starr announced he would make the sweet potatoes and turned on the oven. They had already been prepped with onions and garlic.
Grilled chicken, wine, fruit, and champagne. My peach salsa lurks in the background. It comes on sweet but also brings a persistent spicy heat.
Kathleen’s cheese plate was wonderful. And Starr always demands postprandial chocolates. Some of us chose fine cigars from my father’s humidor, dipped their tips in rum, and retired to the yard to puff in the unseasonably cool weather. I also swirled a rum rickey (rum, lime, and seltzer). I felt so relaxed, I may as well have gone to a spa for the day. Congrats to Starr and company for a great evening.