As i mentioned previously, we decided at the last minute to have a Xmas lunch at a friends place. So after all the shopping, poring though ifood videos to learn how to make things, it was Xmas morning and time to get cooking!

However, things arent always that easy. Got up a bit late (11.30!) and that left only 2 hrs to get a lot of things done, including the big lasagna. Next, we found out the oven was not working - caput! the whole lunch seem to be in jeopardy because of that - but we recovered - more on that here when i describe the lasagna story!

Getting the Appetizers Ready

To get something going and since friends were due to arrive in 20 mins, i decided to get the appetizers ready. These being some of them.

Crackers with Melted Brie Cheese

I love melted cheese and if its brie then even better. Just layer a cracker with some brie cheese and put in pre-heated oven for 4-5 mins. Be very watchful because the crackers will burn very quickly after 5 mins ( i burnt two full sets) . Mmmm they really do taste good ......

Hummus with Pita bread 

This never disappoints . I used onion pita bread which gives an added kick. Toasted the bread just a bit and served both chunky hummus and hummus with olives. 

Cold Pasta Salad 

Also tossed up a nice wholesome cold pasta salad. Mixed greens, some raw olives, some carrots, mushrooms and corkscrew pasta (this recipe really helped . Toss it all up with some shredded cheese and balsamic vinaigrette. just the perfect salad to get people munching.

So those were the starters. Next comes the main course.