Shakshuka

Sorry for the grainy cell phone photo, but I had to post documentation of last night's dinner party. I'm happy to say it was a success! I found that it really helped to keep things simple. Two dishes that require an oven is enough to test one's organizational skills. If I may offer some basic advice to those who have never hosted a dinner party:

1) organize and mis en place like crazy

2) have a time line (know when you will preheat the oven, when you need to run out to buy some napkins and wine, when to make dressings and sauces, etc)

3) don't be afraid to serve one pre-made item. My appetizers (minus the kofta) were from Mimi's Hummus. I also bought the madeleines from the Park Slope Food Co-op.

4) temperatures are very important. Things that are best served at room temperature sometimes take a while to get there after being pulled out of the fridge, so plan accordingly. Salads with lettuce need a 15 minute ice bath and a thorough spin to achieve ultra crispness. When making ice cream don't forget to thoroughly chill the custard/cream mixture in the fridge before putting it in the ice cream maker (my one mistake last night!).

5) back when I was a waitress, I often forgot to turn on the sound system. Diners came in at 7am not able to place why the restaurant felt so dead. Make sure to have your music on before the first guest arrives, the lights dimmed, and candles lit and your party will have the right ambiance from outset.