As a finger-food entr e, it lends itself to partnering with whole steamed artichokes. Big paper napkins are a must. An aromatic crusty ring bread is wonderful to savor alongside. The shallot-dressed salad gets a flourish with imported grapes and toasted walnuts. With a California Sauvignon Blanc, a French Muscadet or a Portuguese Vinho Verde, the meal needs few accoutrements.
Warm pears sealed in caramel sauce and frosty yogurt make a luscious finale.
In the large bowl of an electric mixer, add the yeast to warm water and stir to blend. Let stand about five minutes, then stir in milk, salt, sugar, and oil. Add three cups flour and beat at medium speed for five minutes. Turn out the dough and knead lightly. Turn out and divide in half, knead lightly and shape each piece into a round, poke a hole in the center and pull into a ring about 10 inches in diameter.