Savory Bites: It’s Tastefully Small
Tastefully Small Savory Bites: Easy, Sophisticated Hors d’Oeuvres for Every Occasion by Kim Hendrickson is a cookbook I’ll reach for when I want variety and a fresh approach to appetizers for my next party.
These are not the “normal” appetizer recipes you find in every cookbook. Instead, these recipes will allow you to unleash your inner chef with beautiful and tasty small bites you’ll delight in serving your guests.
The excellent photos in this book will make you want to run out and shop for an intimate gathering or a large party. The book presents ways to modify recipes when listed ingredients aren’t in season or don’t appeal to your taste. You can also “magnify” them for a light lunch.
Tastefully Small Savory Bites offers recipes for every taste. There are recipes for making appetizers with seafood, meat, poultry, and eggs. Those who prefer vegetable-based or pastry bites aren’t forgotten either. One section called Naked Canapés provides cracker and biscuit recipes.
The food photography in Savory Bites will make you want to rush out and plan a party. All photos by Tricia Solyn
Hendrickson’s hors d’oeuvrés presentations are inventive, exciting, and visually appealing. For instance, Turkey Cranberry Relish Scoops serve themselves by using endive leaves as edible scoops. The Chicken Artichoke Bites use the artichoke leaves to serve up the delicious morsels. For the some of the meat options, Cornmeal Scones become servers for chicken or pulled pork.
The leaves of the artichoke serve double duty as a way to serve the appetizer.
Real bottom line: If you are looking for a cookbook to help you plan your next cocktail party, buffet, or afternoon tea and you want interesting, tasty options for those savory bites, Kim Hendrickson’s Tastefully Small Savory Bites: Easy, Sophisticated Hors d’Oeuvrés for Every Occasion is the one to reach for.
