When my friends and I gather for a meal that is supposed to be just a little more than a meal (a potluck, someone’s birthday or a holiday), our stomachs behave a bit differently than normal. That is, they multiply. An appetizer stomach is born, as is a second main course stomach and of course a dessert stomach. You’re probably thinking that eating that much is excessive and unnecessary. You’re right. All we can say for ourselves is that we don’t do it often, so it’s really okay. When it does occur however, the first stomach to demand food is the appetizer stomach, the warm-up stomach if you will. This is the stomach that begins to growl as you are cooking or as you’re getting ready to leave for your friend’s house. The warm-up stomach is responsible for the sudden animosity you develop toward anyone who tries to engage you in conversation at the party before you can make your beeline for the appetizers. We’ve all been there. The recipes in this category, when consumed by the warm-up stomach, will hopefully remind it that they were worth the wait and will get it ready for even more deliciousness to follow.