I'm throwing a smallish Holiday party in a couple of weeks and trying to plan a menu. I 've committed to feeding everyone but I haven't figured out what I will feed them yet. Should I do just appetizers? There's an endless amount of hot and cold tapas out there. Or should I try to pull off a full meal? It won't be a sit down-style meal since there will be between 12-20 people and I'm just not that talented yet!
I don't own crockpots or chafing dishes so keeping things warm for long periods of time is an issue (not that I couldn't borrow some from someone, but I'm trying to keep things as simple as possible). If I do a full meal, I'm thinking soup, salad and some sort of baked pasta. Easy, but is that too boring? On one hand, I'd like to do something fancier, but on the other, let's face it, I moved just over two weeks ago, (and already hosted a holiday dinner) so trying to pull off somethng fancy when there are still boxes to unpack and furniture to arrange is just asking for a stressful night. I'd like to do something that impresses guests but looks more complicated than it is. I need ideas. Give me some. Please?
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Posted by AndreaQ at 5:55 PM
Labels: Entertaining, Holidays, Parties
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6 comments:
How fun! We're also throwing a Christmas Party next weekend (our 4th annual! :)
Hmm...that's a tough one. I would suggest doing appetizers because that way you can enjoy the party more and not be stuck in the kitchen making sure everything is perfect. With appetizers, you can do a lot in advance leaving you carefree & happy for when the guests arrive. We're going to have roughly 30 people and I read somewhere for that number it's good to have 6 different appetizers...sooo I'm going to try to keep it somewhat simple and do the following:
tomato/mozzarella/basil skewers
fig & goat cheese bruschetta
veggies & hummus
mini sandwiches (not sure what kind yet, maybe cucumber?)
turkey meatballs (always a party pleaser)
Hope this helps! Can't wait to hear what you decide to do!
I would also suggest doing all appetizers/finger foods. I've had great success with that approach when I am entertaining a lot of guests!
Sarah has great suggestions! I second the hummus; it's definitely a crowd-pleaser and can be made several days in advance. I love putting out a cheese plate or a cheese ball, too, with homemade crostini and/or pita chips.
Chicken satay with a peanut sauce would be fun too. People love eating things that come on sticks! :) I don't think it needs to be kept hot. Just put them out as guests arrive, and they'll last for the evening!
Good luck!! I hope you write about what you end up making!
I think appetizers are your best bet, too, especially if you want to be able to serve things room temp. I agree with the other comments -- take some storebought help with cheese and fruit, etc., And then knock their socks off with a few fancy appetizers and a dessert. And it's always nice to have utensil-free appetizers!
I totally agree with the others... make it easy on yourself, especially after all the moving/ unpacking! I have a crockpot and a fondue pot if you need them. oh, and definitely let me know what I can bring. I was actually thinking about bringing chicken satay with peanut sauce like someone suggested :), but whatever will help you out I'm happy to bring!
Great ideas ladies! Thank you! I'm still finalizing details (shopping tomorrow so I need to finish my shopping list!) but I'm definitely going with appetizers. MB, Chicken Satay would be awesome for you to bring. I actually was thinking of making it after Amanda suggested it but I'm happy to have you take care of it. Thanks! See you next week and hopefully I'll post about how things went!
Just came across your blog and wanted to say hello! Your new home is gorgeous btw! We just purchased our first home as well. It's very exciting!
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