Choosing the recipe for your dinner party is as important as choosing your guests. Before I give you some ideas, I would like to give you a few things to consider. First, you may be tempted to try out a recipe on your guests, thinking it might be fun to cook something new. Don't give into that temptation. You will be stressed enough with all the last second things that pop up without adding the stress of a first time recipe that demands your concentration. Experimenting with new recipes is fun, but fun that should be tested on your family.

Second, run your dinner ideas past your guests. I learned this lesson when I had neighbors over for some fresh caught salmon I had been given. It turned out they both hated fish. While this meant plenty of leftovers for me, it also meant they went home hungry. Since then, I do run the menu by my guests when I extend the invitation. It isn't very often I have to make changes, but it mattered the times I did.

Finally, when you are menu planning, think about how busy the dishes will keep you during the evening. While it is impossible not to be doing some cooking while your guests are there, try to limit it. If you are sitting down and chatting with your guests, it will make for a far more enjoyable evening for you and your guests. You don't want to feel like you are working in a restaurant, and your guests don't want to feel like they are eating in one. Remember, they came over to spend time with you.

Here are some suggestions on what to cook. So get that table set with your beautiful designer flatware, add fresh flowers, chill the wine, and you are on your way! Good luck, and have a wonderful evening.