Entertaining
How to set a buffet dinner
Photography by Jodi Pudge Image by: Photography by Jodi Pudge
Entertaining
How to set a buffet dinner
Hosting a buffet dinner instead of a sit-down meal is a great, stress-free way to entertain during the holidays. A little prep work and an efficiently organized table mean the cook enjoys the festivities as much as the guests.
How to set a buffet dinner:
How to set a buffet dinner:
- Arrange food on platters of different shapes and heights for visual appeal and to make it easier to access foods. A nice touch is to make labels for the table, so guests know what each dish contains.
- Set the table away from walls and doorways, with enough room around the table to access it from all sides.
- If possible, keep desserts and drinks on separate tables.
- Avoid heavily scented floral arrangements on the buffet table. Stick to other decorations, such as candles and interesting dinnerware.
- Stack plates and bowls at the beginning of the buffet.
- Slice only half of the turkey for the table, then slice more as needed. Keep the remaining meat warm and on the bone to prevent it from becoming cold and dried out.
- Keep a portion of all foods warming in the kitchen to replenish the buffet as needed.
- Place small plates near buffet items to hold serving utensils.
- Arrange cutlery in tidy napkin rolls at the end of the buffet table so guests can grab a package before they head for their seats.
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