Monday, February 16, 2009

How to Throw a Dinner Party With Children

Inadvertently, I threw a dinner party for Valentines day.

We were just getting together with friends we haven’t seen since DECEMBER and we picked Saturday without realizing its significance. When Husband had to work earlier in the day I suggested they come over later and that they stay for dinner.

When throwing a dinner party that includes children the key is:

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Either make something in advance that can be heating in the oven (like a lasagna) or pick a recipe that is super simple and doesn’t take much prep time.

I chose option 2. And made this dish – Roasted Broccoli and Shrimp.

I also made pita bread. I was originally thinking this was a task the kids could help with but I misread the rise time and by the time I was ready for them they were well into another activity and couldn’t be pulled away.

It was not the most successful meal I’ve ever made. I probably should have served the dish with rice or something instead of pita. But the guests enjoyed it. The kids didn’t eat anything and we all had a splendid time any way.

3 Things:
- Feeling like you inspired your friends in some way
- style.com for inspiration
- ability to wear jeans to work (even though I didn't take advantage today)

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Thank goodness what a relief - with that title I was ready to read a horrible tale of cannibalism :)

Bernice said...

It is a true friend who really does not care if the meal isn't perfect.

Lakeview Coffee Joe said...

Now that's funny el supremo. Maybe you should serve dinner more often where the kids don't eat. Sounds like everyone enjoyed it more. Eventually the kids will have to eat something of course.....just lace it with Benadryl.

Anonymous said...

I thought the broc seasoning was mighty tasty. Don't take notice that Charlie didn't eat. He doesn't eat anything unless it's made of peanut butter or meat.

Stacy said...

Actually, I don't think Charlie has eaten dinner in a number of weeks. He lives for breakfast! I thought it was yummy. :)

Pulisha said...

And I thought you were going to suggest locking them away in the basement. That's what we do with ours, hah! ;) I joke, of course, since J is able to get into any room in the house locked or not!