Hosting a Get-Together to Be Safe

By Sandy Hu
The latest from Inside Special Fork

Do you know your neighbors? In city life, people come and go, and it’s easy to lose track of those who live around you. At least, that’s been the case with us.

So this week, I’m hosting the kick-off for our first neighborhood safety group get-together. Having walked door-to-door with a flyer, we’ve already been able to build our contact list to alert each other to safety issues. And this group will also serve as our network for earthquakes and other emergencies.

In our first face-to-face meeting this week, our guest speakers will be our city and county district supervisor and our precinct police captain. They’ll give us an overview of any issues in our district and provide safety tips.

If, like us, you don’t know everyone in your neighborhood, you might consider starting a group yourself. In addition to addressing safety concerns, it’s a great way to meet your neighbors.

While I am welcoming contributions of food and drink, it’s not a requirement to attend because the most important thing is to show up. Steve and I have enough wine and I am making some nibbles.

On the heels of Easter, I don’t want to spend a lot of time cooking, so I went through the database of recipes from Special Fork to find some 30-minute prep appetizers. These are great recipes to keep on hand for an impromptu spring party because they’re quick to make. And they’re also good choices as part of a big cocktail spread because they can be made ahead.

Herb Garlic Cheese Spread – this easy spread is a crowd-pleaser; the recipe was given to me by my friend, Holly Chute, Executive Chef of the Georgia Governor’s Mansion, when I asked her for some quick entertaining ideas.

White Bean Dip with Pistachio and Cilantro – a good choice for vegetarians, this recipe is simple to make and is high on flavor.

Crispy California Asparagus Straws – this hot appetizer is made by wrapping blanched asparagus in phyllo before baking them.

Wonton Cups with Smoked Salmon  – these easy-to-make, crisp cups can hold smoked salmon spread or any other filling of your choice. Check out the short video to see how I make the cups.

Special Fork is a recipe website for your smartphone and PC that solves the daily dinnertime dilemma: what to cook now! Our bloggers blog Monday through Friday to give you cooking inspiration. Check out our recipe database for quick ideas that take no more than 30 minutes of prep time. Follow us on Facebook , Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube.