because you deserve it all

You just spoke with some of your close friends and were pleased to learn they are available for dinner tonight.  Then it sets in – my friends will be here for dinner tonight.  Don’t panic!  Think about enhancing your meal with a store bought sauce.  They will wonder how you pulled together such a wonderful meal on such sort notice.  You should always have some products like this and some chicken or fish in the freezer in case you pull together a party on a moment’s notice. 

Visit Eclectic Grocer to purchase the recommended products below. 

http://eclecticgrocer.com/withcapelich.html

Use this Caribbean Peach Lime Chutney as a sauce for Chicken or Fish. 

Or marinate some chicken with a Tuscan Tomato Basil Vinaigrette.  Serve with rice or cous cous and a tomato salad. 

http://eclecticgrocer.com/withtutobavi.html

When we entertain you must take into account how the food will taste, but don’t forget to present it beautifully.  Sometimes the right serving dish can dress up even the simplest of things.  A cheese platter can be stunning with the right serving plate or cheese board.  Whether it be appetizers or the main course, invest in serving platters and serving bowls.  Your guests will undoubtedly be impressed. 

Click below to shop for serving options.

Get Entertaining by Martha Stewart, the book that started it all. Even though it was written some time ago the recipes continue to be innovative and unique. Martha shares many secrets and tricks of the trade that will help you impress your guests not only with the food but with the ambiance of your party.

I know that it may sound formal, but I love using place cards for a dinner party.  It gives me the option to seat people with common interests near one another and it also gives one the option to separate guests from each other or from me if the need arises.  It is all part of planning ahead and making everyone feel comfortable because we are typically seated for quite some time.