MY GUESTS LIKE ΤΟ GRAZE.

WHAT SMALL BITES WON'T SPOIL THE MAIN EVENT?

- KENDRA VACULIN

These quick but elevated nibbles just as tasty warmed up or served room temp will keep the peckish at bay before the big meal

Marinated Mozzarella and Peppadew Peppers

6-8 SERVINGS The longer this speedy snack sits, the more flavorful it becomes. Serve with toothpicks so guests can stab a mix of cheese and pepper; a pro move is to bring out bread for dunking in the juices once everything’s been eaten.

8 oz. pearl mozzarella, drained

1 cup drained Peppadew peppers in brine

⅓ cup red wine vinegar

4–5 sprigs thyme, torn in half

2 garlic cloves, finely grated

½ tsp. Diamond Crystal or ¼ tsp. Morton kosher salt

½ tsp. mild red pepper flakes Extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling) Flaky sea salt Freshly ground black pepper

Combine mozzarella and Peppadew peppers in a shallow bowl.

Bring vinegar to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add thyme, garlic, kosher salt, and mild red pepper flakes and simmer, swirling pan occasionally, until mixture is fragrant, about 1 minute.

Pour vinegar mixture over mozzarella and Peppadew peppers. Drizzle generously with oil; season with sea salt and black pepper.

Rosemary-Sizzled Salami, Dates, and Pecans

6-8 SERVINGS Salty, crunchy, sweet, and meaty—this is an appetizer with a bit of everything. The dates are particularly good straight from the pan, but you can also make the mix a day in advance and keep it in an airtight container until party o’clock.