Anna Watson Carl is skilled in the art of entertaining. Her new self-published cookbook unveils 110 tried and true recipes for stress-free gatherings. Watson Carl developed and tested all her recipes herself from her New York City apartment and the result was The Yellow Table: A Celebration of Everyday Gatherings. Whether you are well versed in the ways of the kitchen or just beginning to get your hands dirty - there is useful information to make you a better cook and even better host.
NYE Entertaining Tips:
Tip 1: Make as much in advance as possible: prep the crudites earlier in the day and keep in the refrigerator, wrapped in moist paper towels. and make your tahini dip the day before. For the crostini, make the tapenade a day or two in advance (it's actually better that way!), toast the crostini a few hours before the party, and just top with goat cheese and assemble before guests arrive.
Tip 2: Get a big aluminum tub and fill with ice (I've even used a big, deep roasting pan in a pinch!). Have your guests bring their favorite bottle of sparkling wine - cava, cremant, and prosecco are all nice, less expensive alternatives to Champagne - and keep them chilled in the ice tub. That way everyone can just serve themselves.
Tip 3: Serve the food buffet-style so everyone can nibble throughout the night. Serve simple bites (3 to 4 savory and 2 to 3 sweet) that don't require utensils, and that can sit at room temp for several hours.
Tip 4: Make a fun play list! For NYE I like to start with some old school jazz and and gradually build to fun pop/dance-style music for a post-midnight dance party!
Tip 5: Most of all: have fun!! If you're not enjoying yourself, why even have a party in the first place?! There's no better way to ring in the New Years than toasting the people you love the most - so kick back and face a good time.
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