Martha Stewart ruined it for everyone. Perfectly sane people now operate under the belief that, in order to have friends over, they need a year of planning, an entire book's worth of chi-chi appetizers, and a venue that looks like it was decorated by a movie set designer.
Martha lied. Having a successful party doesn't require expensive food or intensive cooking skills. Here are five festive tips for feeding your friends that aren't dependent on your amount of culinary skill or the size of your pocketbook.
Dippity Do-Dah
Avoid cooking altogether by inviting everyone over for a dip. Everyone loves dip at a party because it feels like a splurge. Ask your pals to bring over the dippables (chips, veggies, pita bread), and you can provide an assortment of dips. Don't panic. Whir up an easy hummus dip, and don't be afraid to doctor. Add interest to store-bought dips by tossing in a few ingredients: chopped mango in salsa, marinated artichokes in spinach dip, or pesto in a cheese spread.
Center of AttentionWho says you need a dozen kinds of party food? Some of the best gatherings can be centered around just one dish. Invite everyone over on a cold evening for a big pot of soul-warming chili. Bake a huge pan of just-like-Mom's lasagna. Friends are usually more than happy to bring over easy extras like bread and salad. Sit back and let the conversation flow.
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