Back in my shana rishonah (newlywed) days, supper always started with a fresh plated salad on a nicely set table.

 

Honestly, I miss those days. I admire my friends who have still kept this habit up, not to mention the friends who continue to put a lot of effort into making special and different meals for their families on a nightly basis — all while working full time. The message it sends is: You matter. We don’t dress up for company, but for the people who matter most to us to enjoy something that was made with love. 

 

In reality, what we collectively deal with on a regular basis can be, in a word, overwhelming. Pushing ourselves to create something extra special when we’re the only ones who will enjoy it is often quickly knocked off our priority list. “That was a nice idea.”

 

On a school night, that is almost always the case for me. But when I do take the time, the appreciation makes me wonder why I don’t push myself more often. This week we feature some fun bites that may resemble party foods, but can and should be made for a party of just the people who matter most.

 

Happy Cooking!

Chanie Nayman

 

Pretzel Salad by Chaia Frishman

All of our favorite ingredients in one salad- pretzels, turkey and crispy, crunchy lettuce. Yum!

 

Honey-Hot Drumettes by Michal Frischman

Drumettes the perfect combination of a drumstick and wings. Easier to eat but still a perfect bite-size appetizer. Enjoy these in this sweet and spicy sauce!

 

Chili Pizza by Rivky Kleiman

For all you meat lovers… A fun way to have your pizza and eat meat, too.

 

Cauliflower Poppers by Esther Ottensoser

Substitute breaded cauliflower in place of chicken to make these delicious, zesty Cauliflower Poppers!

 

Hot Chocolate Chip Pie with Ice Cream and Fudge from the Dining In Cookbook

The pie is chewy and warm and the drizzle of hot fudge brings an extra chocolatey element, making this dessert out of this world!

 

White Chocolate Cookie Butter Nutty Buddies by Chaia Frishman

With white chocolate,  cookie butter, and a dash of cinnamon, welcome to this game-changer for snack time.