Entertain with passion
with Chef Marc Miron

Choosing a party menu

Whether it's an end-of-summer barbeque or a dinner party to celebrate an event, choosing a menu can be critical to your success.

 

If it's a casual affair and your guests aren't going to make a fuss, keep it simple. If you want to impress, however, it will take a bit more thought.

 

Do they want fish, chicken or beef? Are they big eaters, small eaters? Will it be plated or served family style. Will it be held inside or out? Hot? Cold? (If both hot and cold are served, start with hot.)

 

This is not a time to try a new recipe, especially if you are trying to impress. In fact, why not choose a recipe that allows guests to get involved? No sense spending the whole time in the kitchen alone!

 

If you are looking to fill a little time, all you might need is a small plate with an assortment of appetizers such as marinated olives, pâté, dips and crostinis (yes, we have them all available!).

 

Speaking of small plates, a presentation that is gaining in popularity, why not try serving in small glasses just to be a bit different (see our in-store selection)?

 

Finally, avoid repetition. As just one example, unless the theme is seafood, avoid serving both shrimp and lobster.

 

Here are a three menu styles you may want to try:

 

• Plated appetizer, plated main protein, sides served in bowl family style, dessert.
• Antipasto plate, main course, make your own banana split.
• Seafood salad, vegetarian hot soup, chicken main dish, a plate of cookies, coffee.

 

Want to learn more? Our cooking classes are designed to help you prepare for a special dinner. Still not enough? We are taking a limited number of people who can spend a whole week with us and learn how we organize our kitchen. Visit www.cuisinepassion.ca for more information.

 
Amitiée gourmande
Chef Marc