One of my reasons for moving back to Northern California was to be closer to family, and so far it's worked out pretty well. My favorite new "tradition" is that every Tuesday my brother, his wife, my girlfriend and I get together for a dinner. We trade off each week, with one couple hosting and cooking the entire meal. Not only is it fun, but we each get the satisfaction of providing a good time for the other couple, and the following week we don't have to worry about dinner on a busy night in the middle of the week.
Since my brother is a Type I Diabetic as well, our meals are usually healthy and relatively easy to dose insulin for. While the entree always changes, my favorite appetizer is a low-carb, Diabetic-friendly tray that can be bought in a single trip to Trader Joe's and is easy on the budget.
Selection of Cheese: TJ's has a wide selection of cheeses to match any taste preference. California Brie, soft Danish blue, and herbed goat cheese are all under $5 each and have 0 net carbs.
Prosciutto or Salami: A package of cured Prosciutto is a little under $4, and the saltiness is a good balance to the musky flavor of the cheeses. If you want to change things up a little, pick out a peppered salami.
Olives or Tapenade: Trader Joe's has four different types of store-brand stuffed olives, for $2.99-$3.99. Choose from Japeno, Blue Cheese, Garlic, or pimiento stuffing depending on what type of flavor you are in the mood for. Or, grab a jar of their Greek olive tapenade, and spread it over crackers or crusty bread.
All of the above items have 0 net carbs, so I don't need to dose insulin at all. Best of all, all you need to do to prepare this dish is open a few jars, peel some plastic wrap, and grab a couple small plates. Before you leave Trader Joe's, wander down the wine aisle and grab a sub-$5 bottle of wine to go with the tray and you have a recipe for a good appetizer and great conversation.
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