Wondering how to host dinner for a handful of friends without cooking a thing? I found the answer. Create a salad bar. It sounds so simple that it is almost silly, but everyone is detoxing after the holidays, and this is a fun way to have a get together while ensuring that no one needs to break their new year diet.
Last week, when the temperature dipped below zero, eight of my incredible girl friends came over to catch up over dinner, wine, and cupcakes. It was the type of last minute gathering that just happened. At first just one friend was coming over, and then more people wanted to come, and eventually we decided to invite everyone. The more the merrier, right?
All of the sudden eight people were coming over, on a weekday, and I needed a plan. I really don't have time to cook for eight people on a weekday since I have a full time job, so I needed to get a little creative. I decided that build your own salad party would be easy, inexpensive, and fun. I headed to the grocery store and stocked up on greens, vegetables, and cheese. Plus I bought a rotisserie chicken, eggs, and bacon. I did cook, but just a little. I crisped up the bacon and boiled a few eggs before my friends arrived.
Just before my friends arrived I placed all of the salad ingredients in cute bowls, and I chopped up a pear, an apple, and an avocado. I also put out some cupcakes - because you always need to serve something sweet when friends come over.
I asked my friends to bring over wine, and a their favorite salad dressing. Most people already have salad dressing in their fridge, and I really didn't want to end up with even more bottles of salad dressing in my fridge after the party.
It was a fun gathering to kick off 2015. Plus, I got to eat all the leftovers throughout the week. I was especially proud of Saturday's salad and could resist taking the photo, which also shows The Maine Magazine which I read while I ate.
This isn't my first "build your own" party. I've hosted Avocado Toast, Caramel Apple, and Christmas Cookie parties too. I love hosting this type of party since it includes an activity for guests, and everyone gets to eat exactly what they want.
