It' time to host, people are coming for dinner....fills you with dread? well no fear I have tips and ideas to take away your dinner party blues.
Lets start by kicking formalities out the window. Lets think cocktails, fun dishes flare and creativity. Don't worry about space or the décor, think about food family and friends instead. Old fashioned is out!!!
We all have them music streaming access, so lets start by looking at music selection, think about the type of music you want to hear, the vibe you want to present. Music to my ear, Think about searching words and phrases like DINNER PARTY which will offer upbeat music, easy listening creating a fab atmosphere for all your guest. Other search ideas are ACOUSTICS, COOL, JAZZ, EASY LISTENING, JAZZ
Welcoming your guest can also be daunting, it is a crucial aspect of any dinner party, because your goal is to make your guest feel at ease and relaxed. I have mentioned on previous pages within this blog about setting up a DIY bar, with all your favourite tipples. Remember your spirits and mixers, garnishes and recipe cards so your guest can make their favourite cocktails. Always remember that not everyone will want a alcoholic drink, so search remember to prepare some mocktail recipes, Click here Mocktails.
So you don't have lots of space, no worries it's the atmosphere, friends and family that counts. Ask your guest before the dinner party to bring a chair or 2. If that is not possible try and be creative, use your coffee table, scattered cushions, garden chairs, with a throw or just a piece of cloth.
Be prepared to have everything ready on-time, try not to get all your guest drunk before they eat nothing worst than hungry guest, after all, you want then to appreciate your lovely food.
WHAT TO COOK
It's always great to try new dishes however, when you are hosting a dinner party it's always best to keep your menu simple and cook dishes you are familiar with. So sick of soups, prawn cocktails? well don't serve them. Instead serve dips, houmous which can be moved around the room. Consider making your own or if you are not that confident try a decent shop bought tub. In addition, cocktails on arrival perfect!!
Philadelphia cream cheese topped with sweet chilli, served with crackers is a lovely starter which is easy to share.
Give your menu lots of consideration beforehand. A menu that is flexible to accommodate a variety of dietary preferences, maybe mix of nationalities, religions, vegetarian & meat eaters, and who knows what allergies or food intolerances is good to bear in mind.
Try and do a theme menu such as Mexican, or a Curry night. Make the main dish a big centre piece with all the trimmings. For instance, if you serve Mexican Enchiladas as a main, ensure your centrepiece is surrounded by all the trimmings to make a feast for your guest. Lots of cheese, salads, Guacamole, Queso Dip and Nacho Sauce, Cilantro Lime Basmati Brown Rice, Pinto Beans in Chili Sauce. Looking for ideas here.
Because dinner parties can be stressful, try making your sweet (pudding) beforehand. Depending on your choice some can be made the night before and chilled on the day of your dinner party. Ice cream, cheese cake, mousse is perfect!
Some Do’s and Don’t’s
DO…..
….find out dietary requirement beforehand, so you can cater for your guest and make them feel comfortable.
….please please, have tidy before your guest arrive. Empty the dishwasher or wash your plates, not only to make your home presentable, but you can load your dish washer or wash up as the night prolongs.
….locate a bottle opener, fill the ice trays these are things that usually cause chaos and make you flustered if the go missing or you run out.
DON’T…..
…..leave your guest to eat alone while you potter around, they are your guest join them.
…..serve complicated dishes which require you slaving over a stove during the night, KEEP IT SIMPLE!!! So you can be with your guest.
….be afraid to entertain on a budget, friends and family won’t mind.
RELAX AND ENJOY CHEERS x
Click Here:Tacos for a party