The age-old proverbial dilemma of what to serve at a dinner party can best be resolved by picking dishes that are tried and true favorites and will appeal to everyone. Avoid flambé ostrich or deviled dinosaur unless you are positive your guests will go for the exotic. As a rule, stay away from organ meats, wild game and raw fish. If you really are determined to serve something along these lines, offer an alternative and universal favorite for the less adventurous that is a sure to please, such as roast chicken. Stick with easily made dishes that need no last minute fussing. Simple food with flair is always well-received (not like the one in the air signaling for help, but on the table).
One way to avoid stress at your dinner party is to do as much ahead of time as you possibly can. Serve those dishes you do well and don’t be afraid of repeating them. Unknown foods are best left to explorers who can take it, and no one will ever complain about food that tastes great, no matter how many times they have tried it. If you have a new recipe you are dying to try, make it for your family first. They make better guinea pigs than guests.
Serve in-season vegetables that require minimal preparation. In a pinch, sliced cucumbers and tomatoes are a good combination dish and require no cooking and very little seasoning. Go for a balance of color, texture and flavor with every meal you serve. For example, crunchy breadsticks complement a creamy soup; a simple green salad goes well with a complex stew. Contrast temperatures of the food you serve as well. Warm rolls are nice with cold pasta, vanilla ice cream with hot fudge sauce and hot-tempered guests seated next to mild mannered ones.
Share your recipes with anyone who asks. It’s not only a great compliment to you but also great karma. And who wants to take chances and mess around with something like that?
Related Reading:
http://forums.families.com/easy-party-ideas,t36833