Many times guests will gather so that everyone can ride to the theatre together. It is fun to offer a little snack before a performance. Cheese and wine are predictable. Try to create something new, a brandade. By making split pea soup the night before and separately baking fresh cod fish fillets the day of the gathering, you will have the basis for a great appetizer. First, completely puree the split pea soup. The soup needs to be thick because this soup becomes the sauce base for your fish appetizer. Thicken the soup/sauce on the stove, as needed, by adding a small amount of corn starch.  Adjust the seasoning with a hint of garlic, salt and pepper. Deconstruct the cooked cod fillets and mix with a hint of lemon juice, fresh chopped dill, salt and pepper. Roll the fish by hand to create a mound of fish. Set the fish mound on to individual small plates, with the pea sauce as a base. Finish these lovely appetizers hot, with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. © Kelly McBride Loft