I have loved The Great Gatsby since I first read it. I was thrilled when I had to read it again for a work project and pulled it out again recently to loan to a friend who had never read it. I was also pleased to find a book based on the novel, The Summer We Read Gatsby. When I saw the Novel Food Challenge, I knew my entry had to be based on Gatsby, the 1920s and the parties described in the book. Page 44 is a great example. I decided on a recipe that could be served on a buffet – Spiced Fruited Ham Slices. The original recipe calls for pineapple rings, but I substituted orange slices, as the fruit deliveries were detailed on page 45.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs cooked ham, sliced
• 2 oranges, sliced
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup orange juice

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cut ham slices into serving size pieces, if necessary.
3. Arrange ham slices evenly in a 8x8 inch glass baking dish.
4. Place orange slices on top of the ham.
5. Sprinkle brown sugar and spices on top of the ham and orange slices.
6. Pour orange juice over all.
7. Cover pan tightly with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
8. Serve as part of a party buffet.