We've all been there: you get a phone call from an old friend saying that he or she is passing through town, and you're pressed to throw together some type of meal with just a few hours to spare. Before you start to panic (and maybe even suggest going out for pizza), use these smart and time-savvy tips for putting together a dinner party in just one hour.
- Clean up only the common areas. You won't be able to clean your whole house, but you can make the common areas look a bit tidier. Put away any stray items in the living room, dining room, or other hangout area, and give the bathroom a good wipe-down. As for the other rooms? Well, that's what closed doors are for!
- Think of a main course. Check out your current groceries to plan the focal point of the meal. Have a few frozen chicken breasts? Maybe some extra dried pasta? Keep things simple with these dinnertime basics — anything too elaborate will only add more stress.
- Use the quickest cooking method. Simple preparation is key: go for a classic spaghetti and marinara sauce or some grilled chicken with olive oil, salt and pepper.
- Create a smorgasbord of sides. When it comes to last-minute sides, go for a variety. Toss together a kitchen sink salad with whatever you have on hand, create a cheese plate of cheeses, crackers and spreads, or even set out chips and dips in attractive bowls.
- Add some ambiance. Light a few candles, fill a vase with branches to create a makeshift centerpiece and turn on some soft music to improve the mood. Voila! That's all it takes to throw together a dinner party on the fly.
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