At first, the idea of a potluck party sounds like the perfect solution for any overwhelmed hostess. With each guest helping to contribute to the cause, logic would suggest that many hands make light work.
However, as any potluck party hostess knows, organizing the troops is just as (if not more difficult) than it is to throw together some extra dishes.
Just because a potluck might be a little more work, doesn't mean that it isn't worth it. The idea of all guests helping out makes the fruits of the labor that much sweeter. In order to make sure your potluck is a huge hit, The Hostess Next Door is here to share her insider tips.
1. DO plan ahead: Understand that throwing a great potluck can be more work than just making everything yourself.
2. DO create a themed menu/outline: Simply asking your guests to "bring a dish" can be frustrating for those of them who don't entertain regularly or know their way around the kitchen.
3. DO provide direction to each guest on their contribution: Creating an outline that includes what you, the host, will prepare and what you would like your guests to bring.
4. DO prepare a fantastic main course: Guests should only be asked to bring appetizers, a side dish, a dessert or wine and beer.
5. DO allow extra time for reheating and late arrivals: As mentioned above, organizing people can be tougher than organizing a meal so allow some extra time for reheating and don't forget to put some snacks out.
6. DO provide a variety of serving platters and dishes: Tell your guests to leave their dishes at home to avoid the trouble of returning them and also for those guests who will be brining things in take out containers.
7. DO provide cards to write descriptions: This will save you the trouble of having to answer (or wonder) what a dish is come meal time.
8. DON'T give your guests too much to do: A potluck is supposed to be fun!
9. DON'T ask your guests to spend too much on their items.
10. DON'T plan a potluck for a big celebration party: 10 to 12 guests are more than enough to keep you (and your guests) busy.
Not sure what exactly to make for your next potluck? Here's The Hostess Next Door's best idea:
__Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Italian Tuna __
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 10
Ingredients
- Cooked rotini, drained tossed with 1/2 cup of cooking water
- Artichoke hearts, drained
- Capers, drained
- Juice and zest of one Meyer lemon
- Castelvetrano olives, pitted and drained
- 6.5- oz cans of imported Italian tuna, drained
- Olive oil
- Flat leaf parsley, chopped
- Fresh black pepper
Instructions
- Simply toss first seven ingredients together in a large bowl. Transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with the parsley and freshly grated black pepper.
