How to Throw a Dinner Party on $20

Mistakes happen and money matters sometimes get in the way of life plans, but that dinner party does not have to be cancelled just because of a banking error or other financial problem. With some thrifty shopping and a quick call to a couple of friends, you can pull off the most spectacular dinner party with just $20.

Shopping List for the $20 Dinner Party

Two boxes fettuccini - $2.50

Two jars budget red sauce - $2.00

Garlic - $1.00

French or Italian bread - $1.00

Budget margarine - $1.00

Cream cheese - $2.00

Green onions - $1.00

Two store brand refrigerated biscuits - $2.50

Refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough - $2.50

Two inexpensive chocolate bars - $1.25

Total: $16.75 plus tax

Before Preparing the Meal - Call a Couple of Close Friends

You have all the supplies you need to cook a spectacular meal for under $20 complete with appetizers and dessert, but you can't forget the wine. Call a couple of great friends and ask them to bring a bottle or two of inexpensive dinner wine. Great friends will never ask why.

Prepare the Meal for Your Dinner Guests

The fettuccini and red sauce will be combined for the main course. Add a bit of crushed garlic and some spices from the cabinet to give the store-bought sauce a homemade flavor.

Slice the loaf of bread in half and spread with margarine. Add crushed garlic. Save until just before dinner then throw under the broiler for a few moments to heat through and toast the bread.

The appetizers can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until the guests are about to arrive. Mix the cream cheese with chopped green onions and a bit of garlic. Place a dollop in the middle of one biscuit and close the biscuit around the cream cheese mixture. Bake according to the package directions. Warm for guests just before they arrive. Top with melted margarine for a guilty, pleasurable experience.

Dessert is simple, inexpensive and fast. Cut thin slices from the chocolate cookie dough. Bake at the temperature on the package for ½ the total time. For instance, if the package suggests baking for 10 minutes, bake for only five minutes because the cookies are thin. Before serving to guests, warm in the microwave and top with a small section of chocolate.

There is nothing better than spending time with friends. Even if your personal budget is extremely tight, you can pull off the best dinner party on the block for less than $20.

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