Inexpensive and Creative Entertaining Ideas

Entertaining in your home is a fun and fulfilling way to socialize. However it can be an expensive and sometimes stressful proposition. Here are a few entertaining ideas that won't break the bank and can provide some well deserved fun and relaxation for you and your guests.

Host a different kind of appetizer party. Have your guests each bring the ingredients for their favorite appetizers. Each guest can teach everyone else how to make the dish and they can nibble on the results as the next person cooks. All the host needs to do is provide the space, dishes, ice and some beverages. It's ok to ask your guests to bring a bottle of wine, as long as you spring for a couple of bottles yourself.

Experience a true blind wine tasting. Have each guest bring their favorite wine that is under $20 (or even $10 and under.) They can uncork it in private, pour the glasses and present them to the others. Everyone can write down their thoughts about each wine. After they've all been tasted each person tells the label, the price, and where they bought the wine. This way everyone can decide what wines they really enjoy without having to buy them all. All you need to do is provide some light appetizers, such as a few of the following; crackers, cheese, fruit, bread and olive oil, veggies and dip.

Throw a pasta party. Cook up a big batch of pasta. It's cheap, easy, and nutritious. Consider using whole grain or whole wheat pasta, or perhaps a spinach or beet pasta, etc. Then offer a couple of different types of sauces. Marinara sauce is super easy to make, but there's a lot of brands available in the grocery store that are delicious and healthy. A quick veggie sauté with a handful of herbs and a splash of wine makes a quick and easy pasta primavera topping. You don't need much pesto or Tapenade to pack a flavorful punch to a batch of pasta. Offer up a few different toppings; such as shredded Parmigiano, chunks of fresh or smoked mozzarella, chopped olives and tomatoes, and capers. French bread is plentiful and cheap at the grocery bakery. Make up a couple of loaves of home made garlic cheese bread. Have a couple of different guests bring a salad. You don't need to offer expensive wine with a rustic Italian meal such as this, an inexpensive Chianti or Cabernet will do. Have your guests bring a bottle of their own preference.

Entertaining can be a fun way to spend time with old friends and get to know new ones. Socializing over food and drink is a treasured and honored tradition for a reason; it's relaxing and refreshing. Don't let a tight budget keep you from spending time with friends and family.