Having lived in Augusta for 20 years, golf to me means one thing -- parties. For 51 weeks of the year, Augusta is a sleepy little town located on the Georgia-South Carolina border, 2 hours east of Atlanta. But for that one week a year, Augusta is the place to be. I remember one year dining in a local restaurant and hearing a guitarist playing and singing "Peaceful Easy Feeling." Only after it was too late did I realize it had been Glenn Frey. Sigh. I also remember trying to convince a friend who is a HUGE John Elway fan to come for a visit and party during Masters® Week. Entirely too busy, she shrugged me off, saying it was just "golf." John Elway was not only spotted in town but was dancing at a nightclub just a few blocks from my house. Live and learn.

Most of the really good parties during Masters® week are private, thrown by local dignitaries, residents and visiting golfers. The food in Augusta thoroughly shines that week as caterers and private chefs turn out their finest creations. Even if you don't play golf, this is the week to cook and to eat.

With this in mind, I've put together a menu for just such an occasion. Most of it can be made ahead and be ready to eat when your guests arrive. Whether you spend the day actually playing golf or are watching a tournament in person or on TV, this menu lends an air of sophisication yet comes together with total ease. Its core is a barbecue grill, which helps to keep the atmosphere relaxed. Invite guests outdoors to sip drinks and munch on a few easy appetizers while the meal cooks. Some easy, pre-dinner snack suggestions would include a bowl of nuts, flavored pretzels, some spicy olives (I'm currently in love with the new line from Tabasco®), fresh salsa with chips and my personal favorite -- pepper jelly served over cream cheese, with crackers on the side. Pepper jelly, especially hot pepper jelly, is wonderful and usually can be found at any gourmet grocery store. It also can be ordered online from tabasco.com in both mild and spicy flavors (and while you're at it, GET THE OLIVES!).

So invite over a few friends, fire up the grill and relax. And while dinner cooks -- get out a putter, a cup and a few balls and take turns "making the shot." The winner doesn't have to do the dishes.