Synopses & Reviews
During almost two decades of catering everything from the Academy Awards to a fete for Queen Elizabeth to an intimate dinner for Julia Child to a “Roller-Disco” Bat Mitzvah, Nicole Aloni has learned more than a few tricks-of-the-trade. And whether you’re planning your umpteenth dinner for twelve, or you’ve only just figured out that there’s a kitchen in your apartment,
Secrets From a Caterer’s Kitchen is
the manual on entertaining.
This comprehensive, accessible and easy-to-use book offers insider tips and guidance about:
Menu preparation for both large and small gatherings Finding special locations for events Decorating advice for “theme” festivities Creating invitations Maintaining a budget Over 125 tried-and-true party recipes
Whether it’s a candlelight dinner, a kid’s birthday party, or a holiday extravaganza, you can put on a show like a pro—and keep your guests guessing—with Secrets from a Caterer’s Kitchen!
Synopsis
Host a party like the pros!
A professional caterer with nearly twenty years of experience offers a no-nonsense cookbook and entertaining guide-packed with the kind of tricks and techniques that keep the pros in business. From budget planning and decorations to theme parties and menu preparation, Secrets from a Caterer's Kitchen includes over 100 party-tested recipes-making this book the only home entertainment manual you'll ever need.
Includes insiders' tips on:
Menu preparation for both large and small gatherings
Finding special locations for events
Decorating advice for "theme" festivities
Creating invitations
Maintaining a budget
Synopsis
From the author of
Secrets from a Caterer's Kitchen, the only 55 recipes you'll ever need to entertain with style and confidence.
Features:
55 essential dishes with lots of variations for every occasion
38 versatile menus-from casual meals to elegant repasts
The basics of how to roast, grill, or steam meat, fish, and vegetables
From napkins to utensils-what every home entertainer needs
Hints and tips from the professionals to make every gathering as much a pleasure for the host as it is for the guests
Crowd favorites and exotic cocktails
Expert wine selections
About the Author
Nicole Aloni, author of Secrets from a Caterer's Kitchen, is a 15-year catering pro whose sold-out cooking classes are held throughout the country. She's appeared on local and national television and radio, including the Food Network. She lives, cooks, and entertains in southern California.
Table of Contents
Secrets from a Caterer's Kitchen Acknowledgments
Preface
Introduction
The Key Elements
The Symbols
Getting Started
Elements of a Party Plan
Solutions for Outdoor Entertaining
Organize Your Time
Cooperative Thanksgiving (14 Guests)
Cocktail Reception (50 Guests)
Sit-Down Dinner (8 Guests)
Space Planning
Invitations
Party Equipment
How to Plan the Menu
The Essentials of Menu Planning
Menu Problem Solving: Tying It All Together
Create Drama: The "Wow" Factor
Drama, Luxury, Surprise, and Beauty
Celebrate the Season
What Every Caterer Knows
Develop a Specialty
Purchased Menu Additions
Expand the Possibilities: Think Outside The Box
Interactive Cooking
The Sophisticated Potluck: Creativity and Graciousness
"Dressed Up" Takeout: Restaurant Favorites with Homemade Touches
Lists, Lists, and More Lists
Contractors and Outside Help
Caterers
Rental Companies
Valet Service
Florists
Wedding Coordinators
Other Services
The Fundamentals
How Much to Serve
Food Quantity Chart
Styles of Service: Seated, Buffet, or Both
How to Set the Table
Beverage Service
How to Equip a Kitchen
Hospitality on Hand: The Party Pantry
The Recipes
Appetizers, Hors d'oeuvres, and Beverages
Soups
Salads and Salad Dressings
Main Courses
Side Dishes
Sauces, Relishes, and Condiments
Desserts
Basics
Techniques
The Gourmet Network
Metric Chart
Index
About the Author