TV Chef Shares Last-minute Entertaining Tips

Posted on May 3, 2006

(ARA) - A beautiful spread of delicious food is the easiest way to impress when entertaining. But, how to impress without the stress can be an ongoing challenge for many home cooks, especially when friends and family drop by for an impromptu gathering. There's no need to sacrifice taste or your nerves when short on time.

TV chef and author Michael Chiarello reveals entertaining secrets and simple, mouth-watering recipes to ensure a successful gathering, even when you don't have a lot of time to prepare.

• Make room for mingling - "Take a little time when you have a little time to save some time when you don't," says Chiarello. He recommends preparing as much as you can before guests arrive. Simply measure and divide ingredients into re-sealable containers and place in the fridge until ready.
• Comfort classics - Party hits are usually the foods that everyone appreciates, presented in a way they wouldn't imagine. Chiarello suggests trying a unique twist on an old favorite, like turning ordinary grilled cheese into bite-size panini accented with mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes and basil.
• Spice it up - Think like a professional chef, even if you're just a beginner. Chiarello recommends adding several layers of flavor to each dish. For example, his Twice-Baked Potatoes with English Peas layer the distinct flavors of potatoes, peas, spices and cheese for an irresistible mouth-watering finish.
• Cheese please - Use time-saver ingredients so you can get in and out of the kitchen quickly. Chiarello likes to use Sargento Bistro Blends cheese. The herbs and spices are pre-mixed with the cheese to add bold flavor without wasting time.

Chiarello unveils how to pull off the perfect party without breaking a sweat in his new DVD, Entertaining at Home with Michael Chiarello, available for free (with one proof-of-purchase and $1.95 shipping and handling) at sargento.com. The DVD features a full entertaining menu based on recipes created from his latest book, "At Home with Michael Chiarello" from Chronicle Books. By following Chiarello's key rules, you'll be a guest at your own gathering in no time.

A favorite recipe Chiarello shares on the DVD is "Speed Scratch" Potato Chips. With just a few ingredients and a savory aroma, it's perfect for greeting last-minute guests using ingredients that are easy to have on hand.

Courtesy of ARA Content

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