Creating a dinner party menu from scratch can be daunting, but that's why we're here! After years of trial and error, we’ve gotten our menu-building skills down to a science. Read on to find out how to craft a crowd-pleasing, mouthwatering menu every time.
• Is there a theme? We love a theme. It helps give the dinner party direction. Is it classic steakhouse? Is it Italian seaside? Let the theme guide the food.
• Who is coming? Your BFFs? Neighbors you just met, colleagues you want to impress? If you don't know the people well, cook something you've made 100 times so you don't stress about how it will turn out. Otherwise we love experimenting with new recipes with our closest friends. If it all goes south you can always order pizza.
• Next think about your space. Is your table large enough for family style? If so, plan your menu that way. With a smaller table maybe a side buffet is best, or you plating each course in the kitchen could work.
• Are there any dietary restrictions? This is extremely considerate and will make everyone feel welcome and comfortable. Plus it's just another way to narrow down menu options.
• Ok this one is very important for overall menu flow. Think about how you can balance the flavors between all the dishes. For example a heavier/fattier main like slow roasted pork shoulder should have a crispy crunchy acidic side like cabbage slaw with a peanut and lime dressing. Or for a light fish main you may want a potato side with some aioli, and then a bitter green salad.
• Plan for an extra person. Just in case. You never want to be stressed about having enough food so just buy a little extra and worst case you have leftovers for lunch.
• Always serve dessert, but pick something that is easy to make ahead or outsource it.
