Top tips on how to cook a meal for others without losing the plot from Linda Fuller, principal of the Old Rectory Cookery School in Surrey
1. When preparing for a dinner party make sure that the menu is balanced and that the same foods, flavours and textures are not repeated.
2. Make sure that the menu is balanced and that the same foods, flavours and textures are not repeated.
3. Shop one or two days beforehand for as many items as possible, so you do not need to spend too long at the shops on the day of the party.
4. If you have a separate dining room, lay the table the night before. Sort out all the cutlery, crockery and glasses you will need.
5. On the day of the party, prepare any root vegetables and store in the fridge in freezer bags.
6. Make sure that wine is chilled and that you have got ice in the freezer for pre-dinner drinks.
7. Remember to warm plates before serving. You can put them in a sink full of hot water if you do not have oven space.
8. Plate up the food and serve to your guests. This will mean less washing up at the end of the evening.
9. Remember your guests have come to see you! Having done all the preparation in advance, try to relax and enjoy yourself.
Click on the link for more information about the Old Rectory Cookery School’s dinner party cookery courses
