How to Entertain Like the Barefoot Contessa
From working on nuclear energy policy at the White House to owning a specialty foods store and becoming the Food Network star the Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten is a mastermind on the art of elegant but relaxed entertaining. Her inviting personality is just as captivating as her recipes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Watch an episode of the "Barefoot Contessa," if possible, so you can get an idea of Ina's simple but gourmet approach to entertaining. Check your local listings on the Food Network if it is available to you, or look through one of her recipe books (check your local library for a copy).
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Choose a recipe for your occasion. Visit the link in the Resources section below to go to the Food Network page listing Barefoot Contessa's recipes, or come up with your own. Keep in mind that you don't want a recipe that will overwhelm you or keep you in the kitchen away from your guests all night. Pick one that will allow you to do some (if not most) of the preparations ahead of time. Write down all of the ingredients needed for a complete meal, including an appetizer, beverages and dessert.
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Shop for your items close to the day of your party so you will have the freshest ingredients. Remember to pick up fresh-cut flowers that will go with your menu and table settings.
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Wash any fresh produce, and prepare any items you can ahead of time. Set your table with appropriate place settings. Finish your main course and dessert. Prepare cocktails and set out appetizers right before your guests are scheduled to arrive.
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Light candles, turn on music or do whatever else you can to set an inviting mood. Greet guests immediately upon their arrival. Mingle with your company a bit before returning to the kitchen so they feel welcome.
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Invite guests to help you with some of the preparations. For example, don't be afraid to ask someone to attend the grill or stove, carry out items or do anything else you could use help with. This makes them feel like they are really part of the party and often makes everyone feel more at ease.
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Serve dinner and offer a brief explanation of what the meal is. Relax and enjoy your guests. Finish with dessert and more conversation.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't go overboard with appetizers. Ina recommends having only one or two at the most.
Have extra cocktails on hand. Most beverage recipes allow for only one serving apiece, so you should make extra.
