Earlier this week, I wrote about getting out of your culinary rut. Have you’ve been hesitating? Well it’s time to throw caution to the wind and invite friends over for a not-your-same-old-same-old dinner.
Here are a few ideas to help you climb out of your culinary rut:
Start in the Kitchen: Invite everyone into the kitchen to make Summer Rolls. Prep all the ingredients in advance and then let your friends have a go at assembling and rolling these bright and fresh appetizers. Make sure you roll a few before your guests arrive to get the hang of it. If you are afraid that your friends will be all thumbs, roll a few more.
To the Table: Maybe you’d like to start with a refreshing Thai Salad. It’s got a lovely crunch. It’s still chilly in the evening, so maybe you’d prefer a warm and cozy soup as your first course. If that’s the case, try my Curried Eggplant Soup.
And the Main Course?: I served my Thai Curried Shrimp and Green Beans at my last Eat Well-Do Good dinner and it was a big hit. Why not give it a try? Not in the mood for shrimp? How about Hoisin Pork? (The Hoisin Marinade is also great with chicken.) To add a little green to the plate, quickly stir-fry some asparagus with a little garlic and fresh ginger.
To end on a sweet note: If you want to stick with the eclectic Asian theme, fresh fruit is the answer. Kiwis are a delicious choice. Add a few orange slices and strawberries for a colorful finish.
If you want to switch it up a bit, the possibilities are endless. I’m betting your guests will be delighted if you serve fun and festive sundaes. Start with a scoop of very good vanilla ice cream, add a dollop of Death by Chocolate Sauce and garnish with a few fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds and coconut.
Have a wonderful weekend! Bon appétit!
Want more? Click Here! for more seasonal menus or Here! for a complete list of and links to all the recipes on this blog!
What’s on tap for you this weekend? I’d love to hear from you! Let’s get a conversation going. To make a comment, just click on Comments below. I’d be delighted to add you to the growing list of blog subscribers. To subscribe: just scroll back up, fill in your email address and click on the Sign Me Up button.
And if you’ve got a minute … many thanks for taking a look at my philanthropic project Eat Well-Do Good. Why not join me at the next Eat Well-Do Good dinner?
© Susan W. Nye, 2012