Читать книгу Entertaining at Home - Rachel Allen - Страница 13

One very important point to make is that entertaining does not have to be costly. Clever, seasonal shopping, and even a bit of foraging if you have the time and the resource (even if just for flowers), can lead to a great get-together. Why not invite your friends over for a relaxed casserole, or ask them to each bring a dish? Either tell people what you would like them to bring (a salad, a dessert) or let them bring what they want for a ‘pot-luck’ party-though this may not be everyone’s idea of a balanced meal! You can give them a general idea of what you want them to bring (a starter or a main, for example), so you don’t end up with ten desserts and no dinner…

If you want to have a more formal meal on a budget, think about simple but delicious stews, pasta or vegetarian dishes. Entertaining doesn’t have to be fancy-but just a little thought, such as laying the table beforehand, can make it feel special. If you’re having a special celebration but don’t want to splurge on Champagne, try less expensive, but still delicious, Prosecco or Cava. Or make it go further by making Champagne cocktails such as buck’s fizz or Bellinis.

You also needn’t feel pressure to serve a lavish three-course meal-one lovely main and a dessert is just as special.