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COOKING FOR A CROWD
Holidays bring lots of friends and family to the
table, sometimes more than you were planning on.
A large holiday dinner takes a bit more planning,
but with a few basics, you can serve 2 or 20 with
style. Our experts have compiled the common questions – and
informative answers – when cooking for a
crowd.
If a lot of people are coming, I can just double or triple my recipes, can’t I?
Not all recipes are easy to double or triple. A better approach is to make the same dish twice. Keep a duplicate dish in reserve so as you run out of one, you can substitute a fresh dish on the buffet or table. Or vary the selection by making two different kinds of desserts or several side dishes. Keep in mind that the more different dishes you serve, the smaller the serving portions.
Where am I going to put all these people?
You don’t have to all sit at one table. Go casual and serve dinner buffet style. A buffet is friendly and informal. Set up extra seating throughout the house where guests can sit comfortably and dine from their laps. Borrow or rent extra chairs, if necessary. Nice, clean patio furniture can provide extra seating in a pinch.
If you live in a part of the country that’s nice and warm during the holiday, don’t overlook a porch, patio or deck. A festive holiday gathering outside is great – especially if you’re grilling the turkey.
Is it OK to ask my guests to bring something?
Guests like to bring something to a gathering; it makes them feel included. What’s the first thing most people ask: “What can I bring?” Take them up on their offer! Ask guests that like to cook to bring one of their specialties, or to bring some nice bread, a bottle of wine, rolls, a pie or an easy appetizer.
Should I add more menu items if I’m adding more guests?
For an expandable menu that’s pleasing to both eye and palate, it’s smart to add dishes if you’re adding guests. Just make sure you have enough of the old favorites. If serving a large number of people, consider serving several different main dishes, like a turkey and a ham or a roast and a turkey breast.
I’m running out of ideas. How can I make my menu a little more exciting?
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