From the Inside Flap
Do you want to break out of the cheese-and-crackers rut? Do you like to entertain and want great recipes, practical ideas, and creative ways to add pizzazz? Do you want to join the ranks of those wonderful hosts and hostesses who throw great parties and make it seem effortless? This book gives you the information and ideas you need—straight up! You'll find:
Start-to-finish guides for 12 fun—not overdone—cocktail parties, including "Open-Mike Night," "A Make-Your-Own Martini Party," and "Any Excuse to Celebrate!"
Guidelines, tips, and shortcuts to help you create a successful gathering for any occasion
Easy-to-follow planning advice for stocking the bar, estimating how much food to make, decorating without glue guns or big florist bills, and more
More than 60 recipes for delicious and different hors d'oeuvres, including Shrimp with Spicy Lime Dip and Wild Mushroom Tartlets
Creative signature cocktails, such as the Border Crossing, Pink Panther, and Between the Sheets, that make each party feel special
Secrets to being a confident host, such as how to handle a glassware shortage, quick tricks to end a party gracefully, and easy ways to ensure that both you and your guests have a fabulous time!
Cocktail Parties, Straight Up! features lots of ways to liven up the atmosphere and loosen up the crowd. You'll see how a cocktail party can be très chic without being très expensive or très stressful. So raise a glass and say, "Cheers!" With this book, you're ready to shake, stir, and entertain with style.
From the Back Cover
Envision a cocktail party with charisma.
One where the drinks and the conversations flow . . .
Where everything's all abuzz and aglow . . .
Where all the guests are meeting and mixing effortlessly . . .
Where the food fits the mood . . .
Where the home has a warm, inviting ambience . . .
Where the hosts or hostesses are having a good time, too.
Welcome to Cocktail Parties, Straight Up!
A Sampling of the Recipes
- Baby Lamb Chops with Rosemary Mustard Cream
- Shrimp & Polenta Wedges
- Artichoke & Green Olive Dip
- Empanaditas
- Goat Cheese & Leek Croustades
- Savory Cheese Puffs
- Top-Your-Own New Potatoes
- Spiced Bar Nuts
- Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches Two Ways
- Champagne-Marinated Grapes
- Cuban Sandwiches Peque?os
- Asian Chicken Meatballs with Sweet-Sour Sauce
