Cooking with friends – some helpful hints for a great evening

When cooking for friends, the first thing to remember is to select guests who you know will get along well with each other. This specially applies if you are inviting six or more guests.

• Plan your menu carefully and if you’re using a recipe from a book, pin it up in the kitchen where you can see it. This is your game plan for a perfect dinner for friends.

• Now you can go shopping and buy all the things on your list. Herbs and spices are especially good when fresh and will enhance sauces and meat flavours.

• Give a thought to decoration while you’re shopping. How about matching yellow roses and yellow candles? Remember; less is more, so leave room for the plates and glasses.

• It’s usual to serve a chilled white wine with fish and red wine with the meat. If you’re choosing red, remember to uncork it at least an hour before the meal so it can be served at room temperature.

When you’re the host, you’re responsible for the atmosphere. Think about choosing some suitable background music to make the evening perfect. 

Bon apetite!