When you're the host, you spend a little more time in the kitchen and you're willing to try your hand at new, more-impressive recipes. But along with all the fun in the kitchen comes the stress of welcoming guests into your home. But there's no need to worry. A little planning and preparation before the big night can help keep you stress-free and your guests happy.
When planning your holiday entertaining this year, why not turn to Canadian cheese? It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser no matter how you serve it. Here are some helpful tips to keep stress to a minimum, plus 10 delicious one-bite cheese appetizers to dazzle your guests.
Stress-free entertaining tips:
1. Plan the menu. Whether you're preparing a holiday feast for family or a cocktail party for friends, choosing the menu is important. Plan your lineup the week before the event. Select a variety of complementary dishes, and make sure each recipe uses techniques that you are comfortable with even if you've never prepared the actual dish before. Don't forget to check with guests for any special dietary needs.
2. Shopping list. Break your shopping list down into the following categories: items that can be purchased a week ahead; items that need to be specially ordered or sourced; and items that you need to buy fresh the day of the party. Stick to your list when shopping and avoid impulse purchases. This will save you money and prevent an unbalanced menu.
3. Make a prep list. Like a shopping list, a prep list helps you organize and de-stress. Break it into the following categories: two days ahead; one day ahead; morning of the party; one hour before the party; and just before/after guests arrive. Slot all the tasks you need to accomplish under those headings, and hang the list on the fridge or a cupboard and cross items off as they're done. Don't forget to include details such as setting the table, placing fresh towels in the bathroom, and arranging drinks and glassware on the sideboard. The more you do before the guests arrive, the less anxious you'll feel and the less likely you'll be to forget something.
4. Be social. Don't disappear into the kitchen the minute your guests arrive. Take time to welcome them, serve drinks, pass appetizers and enjoy their company. A harried host makes for harried guests. Trust in your planning and preparation and enjoy the festivities.
10 one-bite Canadian cheese appetizers
• Mini Croque Monsieurs
• Prosciutto and Cheddar Puffs
• Gouda Coins
• Blue Cheese and Walnut Mushrooms
• Cranberry Walnut Brie
• Smoked Trout Roll-Ups
• Crunchy Parmesan Chicken Wings
• Gorgonzola and Black Mission Fig Cups
• Mini Quiches Lorraine
• Olive, Pepper and Asiago Pinwheels
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