Complete Illustrated Book of Appetizers, Buffets, Finger Food and Party Food

Choose from a huge collection of appetizing favourites including simple nibbles, finger food, dips and dippers, and recipes for informal brunches, lunches and suppers. This title contains everything you need to know about successful party planning, with advice on making guest lists, seating plans, table settings, decorations, themed parties and essential entertaining tips. Recipes include fabulous dishes such as cappucino of Puy lentils, lobster and tarragon or goat's cheese souffle. Of course, no party would be perfect without an irresistible dessert: choose from delicious puds such as frozen Grand Marnier souffles and iced lime cheesecake. It has useful information on planning the menu, preparing the food and cooking ahead, plus advice on selecting perfect drinks for the occasion. Being prepared is the key to success, and the book opens with a useful reference section. Advice is given on all the essentials, from deciding what type of party to host and making guest lists to estimating the food and drink requirements and creating stylish table settings.The heart of the book is a wonderful recipe selection, which includes elegant canapes such as smoked trout mousse in cucumber cups. Nibbles, dips and finger food are party treats that everyone enjoys and there are 400 exciting recipes to choose from. Chapters on brunches, lunches and fork suppers include tasty dishes like potato and red pepper frittata, and leek, saffron and mussel tartlets. The selection of special occasion dishes includes cider-glazed ham and rich game pie. There are also many no-fuss main meal recipes, such as Malaysian seafood stew and three-cheese lasagne.