This is the perfect time for a party! A party in summer can be so easy, relaxed and fun for the hostess.  The weather puts everyone in a casual, festive mood. So if it is your turn to host the next party or dinner now is the time.

First, think of how many and your space.  Do not feel bound by the number of chairs in your dining room.  How about moving smaller tables around and through out the main living rooms, including your outdoor spaces. Cluster chairs here and there for conversation pits and have at least one bar set up in an area that can accommodate a crowd.  It is so east to rent tables, bamboo chairs, colorful linens.

Place simple fresh cut flowers, small bowls of finger foods and many white candles about.

Make your own spicy nuts to whet the appetite. Serve in a ceramic crock or an antique silver bowl- make to sure to place some on near the bar.  Here is a recipe I love but try your own combinations and substitutions.

Spicy Nuts

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon Lawry’s salt

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon celery salt

1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper- a little more for the adventurous!

1 1/2 cups of most any unsalted roasted nuts

1 tablespoon of kosher or Maldon salt

Preheat oven to 325°F

-Melt butter in a medium sized saucepan over low heat. Add everything else except nuts and the coarse salt.  Simmer for several minutes to bring out the flavors.

-Add nuts and stir until evenly coated.  Spread on a parchment covered baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, shaking the pan every few minutes.

-Toss the nuts with the coarse salt and let cool.  Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Makes 1 1/2 cups