CHEESE 'N SNAP FONDUE

Sugar snaps are a good party conversation piece if you serve them with the strings on and show your guests how to string them themselves, before eating as is, or with your favorite dip. If your guests tire of stringing pods, here’ another party people-mixer. Probably the finest device to get everyone acquainted is to serve cheese fondue. Here’s a recipe that’s good with Sugar Snaps as well as other crispy fresh vegetables, bread cubes, and chips.

1 clove garlic, peeled and halved
¾ cup dry white wine
1 pound shredded mild and well-aged Swiss or cheddar cheese
Salt, white pepper and allspice to season
More wine if necessary to thin fondue

Rub chafing dish or heavy casserole with garlic pieces. Pour in wine and heat until gently bubbling. Stir in shredded cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season to taste with salt, white pepper and allspice. If necessary, thin with more wine. If you can’t get a smooth fondue, mix ¼ teaspoon cornstarch with 3 tablespoons wine and stir into the fondue. Serve hot with Sugar Snaps, sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, cauliflowerettes, bread cubes or corn chips. The recipe makes enough fondue to serve 4 people.

DIP VARIATION: For a milder snap pea, substitute for the prepared dip in above recipe, 6 ounces cream cheese mixed with 2 to 3 tablespoons chicken broth or milk. Season to taste with garlic and onion powders or salts.