Question:
What should I make for dinner - husband is bringing a friend home from work?
Hello Everyone. I know this isn't an "important" question, but I wanted some fresh ideas and thought this was a good avenue for that. I asked my husband to invite a coworker of his over for dinner one night this coming week because he is a bit down and out lately due to a family issue that has left him alone in the evenings when he expected to be with his older son. So Im trying to come up with a meal that is comforting and cozy but absolutely delicious. Other things to note, Im a very good cook, so nothing is out of the question. Im just looking for the perfect idea to run with. First I thought of a high quality beef stew (its cold here and it feels like a family style meal, which is the sense Im going for), or even Julia Child's Bouf Bouginion (which Ive never made before, so...). Anyhow does anyone have a family favorite meal that would work for us in this instance, and if you have a recipe that is a slam dunk every time, Id love to see it. I cook so often I don't have any "go to meals" that I use for company - most of our suppers are company quality. I want this to be special. The first time I met my future mother in law I made ceasar salad, spaghetti and meatballs, roasted red peppers, homemade crusty bread, and an antipasto platter to start. It was perfect for THAT...now Im looking for something equally perfect for this. Also, this isn't his boss, so I don't need to impress, just welcome and indulge in a good quality, well prepared, hot meal. I know this is just want he needs to cheer him up a little, I want to do it right and make it nice. Again, its just my husband, his male coworker, me and my 13 month old daughter (who eats anything). Men love meat and potatoes right? Also, lets say I go with the stew idea, any ideas for salads and sides? The only thing I think is...is beef stew nice enough for company or does it look sloppy? The other question regarding the stew is..my dad always served it over mashed potatoes and didn't put pots in the stew itself. My mom always put cut up pots in the stew and cooked biscuits right in the stew pot for the last hour - both were great, maybe moms was a little better...?? Okay that's all I need for now. Im always trying to do nice things for others, like I said, I know its not an important question but I really believe you can brighten someones day by inviting them over for dinner. This guy needs a bit of sunshine...if you have the perfect meal (starter, main, side(s), dessert), please help me make this special for everyone.
Answers:
Best Answer - Chosen by Voters
Pizza.
I would do a little twist on the stew that I think would look more appealing, but very homelike....roast beef or pork with potatoes and carrots cooked along side. Onions optional. I like the added flavor. Can be done in the oven or crock pot. Salt and pepper seasoning works well for us. But au jus mix and/or Italian salad dressing from a dry packet are good. Gravy optional.
Mixed greens or a jello base salad would work. Lots of great bread choices available.
I also bake chicken pieces (breasts preferably) topped with a mixture of cream of chicken soup and plain cultured sour cream. Halfway through the baking add crushed Ritz crackers(with or without some melted butter added) and mixed with some poppy seeds. Have to watch the poppy seeds if the person may be tested for drugs. However , I have been told that the small amount will not affect a test. Any great vegetables or salads can be served with this. Green beans almondine or cooked carrots with some walnuts and a bit of brown sugar taste good and give color,
My guest favorite desserts at my house are lemon pie or angel food cake (easy from a box). A dish of ice cream is always good after a hearty meal.
Good Luck. I am sure you will serve something great and your husband and friend are lucky to have a caring person like you.
Lots of cooking and entertaining.
You're a lovely friend. Maybe a fresh lasagna, salad, and a warm soup for starters. Cheesecake for dessert? Or broil up a few steaks or lamb chops, with a side of au gratin potatoes, and fresh green beans with onions and garlic?
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