Dinner Parties for Men

Cook things you have done before (successfully). Don't be tempted to cook something new for an impressive dinner party. There are far too many things that could go wrong and, even if it does all work out well, you will be under stress and not enjoying it.

So, cook things you have managed at least once before - practice on yourself, or at least on very close company who will not mind if dinner late, or burnt! It's OK to scale up a recipe for a larger number, but you want to be able to relax and enjoy the company.

Cook easy things. Err on the side of simplicity when selecting your menu. Your guests will be more impressed with simple dishes, prepared well, than with botched attempts at elaborate items.

Selecting your guests. This is of course a matter of personal taste, not to mention what your objectives are! You could be more relaxed in the timing and seating if everyone is a close friend; if you are out to impress someone, then a little more formality may be called for.

If at all possible, get firm acceptances, so you are sure exactly how many people you are feeding, and how many places to lay at the table. Don't invite more than you can comfortably seat around a single table - or the closest approximation you can manage. And specify clearly an arrival time with the invitation, so that the food can be properly cooked at the right time.

Washing up. Clearly, this is one of the most tedious parts of hosting a dinner party - although also an excellent argument for buying a dishwasher! Try and make sure that all crockery and cutlery is dishwasher-safe - even the best stuff you keep for special occasions. Make sure the dishwasher is run through and empty before your guests arrive - all ready to be filled up aas you remove plates from the table.

Relax and enjoy! It's important to enjoy your own parties. After all, you're spending a lot of time and money on the food and drinks, so it's important you get something out of it, too. Following the tips here should make it possible for you to enjoy the great food, fine wines and excellent company as much as your guests.

Timing.

Shopping. Make sure you have everything you need. Check the recipes carefully, and then the store cupboards. Make a list - and check it twice (cue song!) - of all the items you need. Get the shopping the day before - or at least the morning of the same day as the party - so that everything is fresh.

Give yourself enough time. Rushing the preparation of food is a sure-fire way of making a mess of it! Make sure you've plenty of time to get everything ready. Plan to have everything as ready as possible half an hour before your guests are due to arrive. Then, go take a shower - kitchens are typically hot places - change your clothes and chill out for a few minutes. Enjoy!

Drinks. Find out what your guests prefer to drink and cater to their tastes. There's not point in spending a fortune on an expensive bottle of red wine or champagne, only to be told "But I only drink beer" (or alcopops).

Guest Preferences. There's nothing more embarrassing - for all concerned - than slaving away all day cooking a wonderful meal only to encounter one of your guests saying "I can't eat shellfish" or "I'm a strict vegetarian". It is essential that you ask - as directly as necessary - about any dislikes or allergies that your guests might have. And, of course, plan your menu accordingly.

Prepare early. Try and prepare as much as possible before your guests arrive, so that you are not spending every moment in the kitchen rather than chatting to your friends and acquaintances. Besides, having everything ready will give an - admittedly false - impression of effortlessness!

Have an "Assistant Host". Even with the the best preperation, cooking for a dinner party will require you to spend some time in the kitchen, concentrating on the cooking. So what you need is a spouse, partner or just a close friend, who makes sure your guests are looked after - glasses topped up, and so on - while you are attending to the food. Then you can focus on the finishing touches in the kitchen and whisk out wonderful food to general acclamation.