Renee came into town today, and it happens to be her birthday… so we threw a little get-together for her. Tonya, Steve, Monique, Cristina and Rex joined us. Since it was a weeknight and I was coming from a work barbeque, I went with the usual tapas menu that I do because most everything can be done ahead of time and it’s really simple.

• Marcona Almonds
• Assorted Olives
• Grapes
• Manchego Marinated in Olive Oil & Herbs (Fine Cooking #81, November 2006, p. 78)
• Crispy Potatoes with Tangy Tomato Sauce (Patatas Bravas) (Fine Cooking #81, November 2006, p. 80)
• Sautéed Mushrooms with Garlic & Parsley (Fine Cooking #81, November 2006, p. 81)
• Sautéed Chorizo with Red Wine (Fine Cooking #81, November 2006, p. 82)
• Seared Shrimp with Pimentón & Sherry (Fine Cooking #81, November 2006, p. 82)
• Chocolate Oblivion Truffle Torte (The Cake Bible, Rose Levy Beranbaum, p. 84)
• Jaleo White Sangria