Appetizer Party With Style

Invite friends over for the most creative gathering of the season-a cook-together appetizer party. It's the idea of Sheri Castle, a cooking-school teacher in Chapel Hill, North Carolina ( www.shericastle.com). "This brings guests into their favorite party room-the kitchen-to cook and catch up," she says. "Assign two recipes for each couple, and have a no-cleanup policy for your guest chefs."

Brie Tartlets With Grape Relish

Choose appetizers for the party that will look and taste good as the evening progresses, such as Brie Tartlets With Grape Relish.

Beef-and-Asparagus Bundles

Show guests how to tie Beef-and-Asparagus Bundles with a fresh chive.

Pancetta Crisps With Goat Cheese and Pear

Save the final step of drizzling honey over Pancetta Crisps With Goat Cheese and Pear for each guest to do.

Blue Cheese Shortbread Leaves

Nibble while you work. Provide Blue Cheese Shortbread Leaves and bubbly for your guests to enjoy.