We know a number of Portuguese and Spanish families, and I wanted to create something that would remind them of the Mediterranean. Meze jars are more Greek than Portuguese, or Spanish, but I thought they would still do the trick. I decided to send them with some crusty bread that can be toasted to make a delicious supper.
Other than a few very minor preparations – sterilising the jars, charring the peppers and some chopping, it really is a case of shoving everything in a jar and hoping for the best. Jamie Oliver got my ideas going with this trio of mezedes jars, and then I went a little off piste. This is what I ended up with:
- Feta, lemon zest, thyme, salt, black pepper and olive oil.
- Green olives, sun-kissed tomatoes, mozzarella, chilli, bay, black pepper and olive oil.
- Charred red peppers, mozzarella, rosemary, vinegar, salt, black pepper and olive oil.
Other ideas include homemade hummus, roasted aubergines, grilled courgette, goats cheese and spiced olives. You can take it wherever you like. Again for the bread I used shop bought mixes – foccacia, ciabatta and mixed grain. The mixes are £1 and make two or three mini loaves.
Happy giving!
E xx
Oh I love these! Just my sort of thing. If I make some I’m definitely keeping them for myself!
Nat.x
I did…don’t worry! 😉 x
These look absolutely amazing Esther – what thoughtful gifts! That bread looks incredible too, can’t believe it’s a packet mix x
Thanks Donna. Packet is the way forward with bread! x
Looks so yummy Esther! I love your ideas!
Thanks Ang! x