Hosting at Home
Five Rules for Cooking for Your Guests
I’ve started cooking for people again in our rental home and, let me tell you something, it feels great. After a hiatus hoisted on us from hosting, I’ve been reminded of the rules I’ve always known, but sometimes ignored, much to my own detriment. There’s a certain art to making a meal for guests that goes beyond just following a recipe. It’s about setting the tone, creating an experience, and making sure the whole thing doesn’t collapse under the weight of my own expectations. These aren’t just guidelines—they’re the difference between a meal that feels like work and one that feels like a celebration. So if you want to cook with confidence and make your guests feel like they’re part of something special, here are the five rules to keep in mind next time you make magic for others in the kitchen.
Rule One: Set the Menu Yourself
Okay, hear me out. You’re the chef here, not your guests. Sure, check in to make sure no one’s allergic to mushrooms or has a distaste for cilantro, but beyond that, you’ve got this. The minute you start stressing over everyone’s preferences is the minute it turns into a chaotic free-for-all. When you set the menu, you're crafting the journey and rhythm of the evening. People want to be taken on a culinary journey by you, so pick something you’re excited about, and let that enthusiasm shine through every dish.
Rule Two: Only Ask One Person to Bring Something They Love to Make
Every group has that one person who’s known for their "signature dish"—the recipe they’ve perfected and want to share. If your friend has mastered a killer salad or a decadent dessert, let them take the reins on that dish and truly shine. The key here is to let only one person per dinner contribute something they’re passionate about, while you keep the rest of the meal under control. This way, their dish adds something special without the evening turning into a mismatched potluck.
Rule Three: Always Have Enough Food
This doesn’t mean you have to go all-out every time, but if you’re cooking, make sure there’s enough to go around. There’s nothing worse than running out of food halfway through the meal. You don’t need a smorgasbord, but think ahead: if you’re doing a pasta, load up on the sauce. Planning a roast? Make sure you’ve got enough for seconds. There’s nothing more gratifying than sending people home with leftovers—and, let’s be real, a delicious doggie bag never hurt anyone.
Rule Four: Don’t Try Something Wild for the First Time
I get it, the desire to impress is real, but this isn’t the time to test your skills with a recipe you’ve never attempted. Keep it simple and familiar. Sure, if you’ve cooked a similar dish a hundred times and know it like the back of your hand, go for it. But if you’re trying a new technique, like making fresh pesto for the first time or attempting a soufflé, save it for a less high-pressure setting. You’re hosting, not performing a culinary experiment.
Rule Five: Keep the Group Small
We’re not talking about a holiday blowout here. For the sake of your sanity—and the intimacy of the evening—keep the guest list short. A small group ensures that everyone can connect, enjoy the food, and not feel like they’re lost in the crowd. It’s the sweet spot for making sure your home feels warm, the conversation flows, and the dishes get the attention they deserve. Plus, it means you won’t be buried under a mountain of dishes when it’s all over.
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Absolutely spot on advice 👍😃