Tidbits & Noshy things. You know I like the sound of that. But this week at The Back Burner we are trying to show you delicious ways to slim down.

Let’s face it. Tidbits & Noshy are those tasty little bites designed to go with your favorite adult libation. They shouldn’t really count as calories, because you’re not really eating. You’re drinking, right?

Wrong. Mindless eating, even when it falls into happy hour, is nothing to be happy about. But you have to admit the right little nosh next to your cocktail is a glamorous way to begin an evening of socializing with friends. Well I’m hear to say nosh away. In fact if you choose your tidbits carefully you can nosh away in style.

Take these colorful little bites. They’re a terrific way to start a party. A little sweet, a little salty. They’ll make you thirsty for something frosty. They’re even served on toothpicks. Now that’s really fun. GREG more »

This week on The Back Burner my colleagues have been discussing a simple cooking technique we can all master. Poaching. I think poaching is terrific. But (once again) it leaves me grasping at straws. Poaching is not a technique typically associated with cocktails. Of course “poached” is a crude term indicating an elevated state of inebriation. But I’m not here to instruct you on methods for poaching, polluting or pickling your brain in any fashion. I’m here to show you more sophisticated ways to enjoy cocktails with restraint.

But somebody spent a lot of time coming up with “poached” as this week’s theme. It would be rude to ignore their hard work and just post whatever the heck I’m drinking this week. Besides I’m convinced these subjects are designed to challenge me. more »

Party planning 101.

So you want to be the belle of the ball but your pocket book prefers to remain a wallflower. Does this mean you can’t entertain at home and do it in style? Heck no I say.

You don’t have to have the deep pockets of a rock star to party like one. In fact a modern day cocktail party is a great way to entertain a crowd without breaking the bank. No one expects a full meal when they go to a cocktail party. A few nibbles on tooth picks, olives and plenty of mixed nuts will suffice in the food department. This allows you to concentrate on really getting the party started. more »