Bridging the gap between arrival and dinner is a situation that calls for something savory, easy, and at room temperature that won’t lay waste to appetites. If surprise and delight (as well as a preference for simplicity and efficiency) drive your menu choices, here are some options:
Buy packages of plump smoked bay scallops online, simply pierce them with toothpicks on a plate and add a bowl of tartar sauce or horseradish mayo alongside. Or splurge on D’Artagnan’s luxury finger food called French Kisses, prunes stuffed with foie gras.
Several days in advance, you might whip up your own smoked-trout spread to pack in a bowl and offer with bagel chips or squares of pumpernickel.
Or you could serve soup. No, I have not gone around the bend. I often accompany drinks with a velvety vegetable soup that’s about the consistency of tomato juice and lightly chilled for guests to sip. Pour small portions into disposable plastic shot glasses arranged on a tray to set out on a table or sideboard, perhaps with cheese straws alongside.
