For a celebration that you enjoy just as much as your guest
Everyone loves a party! Gathering together family and friends for a celebration is a very special thing, but it can be stressful for the person hosting it. Here are my handy tips on how to make entertaining easy.
One thing I’ve learnt over my years working in restaurants is that you need to be organised. Preparing in advance is the key to making your event go smoothly.
- When you’re planning what food to serve, I always say keep it simple. Having a party is not the time to cook something complicated that you’ve never made before. Instead, make dishes which are straightforward and that you know how to cook.
- A buffet is a great way to feed a crowd. Dishes like my easy-to-make and tasty Roast Beef, Beetroot and Horseradish Platter can be prepared ahead of time. If you want something hearty, serve a selection of pies, like my splendid Chicken and Leek Pie or Steak and Ale Pie.
- Don’t feel that you have to make everything yourself. A spread of good bread, cheeses, tasty olives, charcuterie such as Parma ham or Serrano ham, salamis and mortadella is both easy and delicious.
- Work out your menu and get in everything you need well in advance.
- Don’t forget to organise enough cutlery, glasses, crockery, napkins and ice cubes!
- Most important of all, relax and have fun yourself! A happy host who’s enjoying the party sets the tone for the guests to relax and have fun.
