subject: What To Serve Your Guests When They Drop In [print this page] It can be hard to whip up something when unexpected guests come over. There are a few things however that are quick and easy to make, and you'll find will be a hit with your guests too. As long as you have a quality teapot, a selection of teas and a few bottles of spirits (for late-drop ins), you'll find by following these tips, it will be easy to impress and serve guests with something they'll enjoy.
Food ideas
For something to nibble on, there are a few simple things that are perfect for unexpected guests. Brushetta is one of those dishes that everyone loves and is so simple to make. Always keep a loaf of thick Ciabatta bread or a similar loaf in your freezer and a few tomatoes and an onion.
All you need to do to whip up delicious tasting brushetta is to put the bread in the toaster, chop up the tomatoes and onion and mix together, then toss with a dash of balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Place heapings of the mixture onto the toasted bread and serve on a platter.
For morning and afternoon teas, if you want something a little sweeter, a good idea is to keep a loaf of banana or raspberry and pear bread in the freezer. Once again, it's as simple as putting the slices in the toaster (on the defrost setting), toasting to perfection and finishing with a slathering of butter. Alternatively, you could toast slices under a grill or in the oven. Just make sure it has been defrosted first if it is not a fresh loaf. Cut bread into quarters for easy finger food if you are serving many people.
Drink Choices
For those late night drops ins, a fine selection of spirits is a good idea for mixing cocktails. Lots of ice is also important. Alternatively, have a bottle of wine chilling in the fridge if you prefer. For those unexpected celebrations, a bottle of french champagne should always have it's place in the liquor cabinet. For morning and afternoon tea drop ins, you can't beat a fine selection of flavoured teas. There are so many beautifully designed teapots you can purchase to serve your tea in as well. Glass teapots are a great option as you can watch as the tea diffuses. Search online or visit a boutique tea shop and purchase some unusual tea varieties to give guests a good selection. However make sure you do have some traditional teas such as Earl Grey, Chamomile and English Breakfast as some people may prefer these varieties.
For hot summer afternoons you can't beat homemade iced tea. It's easy to make, and looks great in a tall glass with a few ice cubes. Keep a jug of it in your fridge if you suspect you might be having guests.
By having a few items in your pantry or fridge, you'll find it easy to create a delicious light meal and accompanying beverage when those unexpected guests drop by.
