Items4The creator’s order
- 1
Deviled eggPrepare the mustard-spiked filling and egg halves ahead, then fill and finish with snipped chives before serving. Two bites have enough tang to be interesting without turning the starter into a meal. This is the one to choose when you want individual portions without a hot pan.0i - 2
Pimento cheeseMix the cheddar, pimentos and dressing in advance and serve the spread with celery or plain crackers. The soft, sharp cheese is useful when the rest of the table is crunchy or pickled. Offer a small bowl and refill it if needed.0i - 3
GiardinieraA small plate of cauliflower, carrots and peppers in a sharp dressing gives guests something brisk alongside richer snacks. Make it ahead from a tested refrigerator recipe and drain it before serving so it keeps its bite without soaking the crackers.0i - 4
Cheese strawBake these savoury cheddar sticks ahead, then serve them at room temperature. A little cayenne makes them distinct from ordinary crackers. They are useful when people will be standing around talking, since the whole starter fits in one hand and needs no dip.0
