Planning a French Dinner Party

The summer is coming to an end, or at least for students, so why not celebrate the ending to one hot summer by throwing a French-style party?  It is actually much easier than what you would expect and we are here to help you get started!

First, the French love great food and company.  Start with compiling a list of close friends that may or may not know each other; always great to meet new people.  The number of guests can be either small or large depending on your personal preference; I personally believe the more the merrier. 

Second, to do this the French way you will have to start the evening with an apéritif.  An apéritif is normally an alcoholic drink consumed before a meal to stimulate or activate the appetite.  Drinks do not always have to be alcoholic and should be changed accordingly to the party crowd. 

When I was in France the family I stayed with would more than often drink Champagne.  This bubbling, sparkling wine product was perfect as it is light and refreshing.  You however, may choose other drink options such as cocktails, juices for children, or anything that even the crowd may ask for.  We also served a few small finger foods as we drank.  You can consider doing the same.  Items such as grape tomatoes, spreads, crackers, pretzels, and other small finger foods are perfect. 

Next, start to plan the menu.  Depending on how hungry everyone may be you should decide how many courses to prepare. 

Here are some ideas for appetizers.

Chilled Tomato Soup with Tarragon Crème Fraiche

Salade Lyonnaise

Pork Rillettes

Main Dishes:

Sumer Tomato Bouillabaisse with Basil Rouille

Colorful Vegetable Tian 

Trout with Brow Butter and Almonds (Trout Meunière Amandine)

Desserts:

Apricot and Basil Shortbread Tart

Chocolate Mousse

Pistachio Financiers

After the dessert a cup of coffee or cappuccino may be requested.  From my experience this is the time when the in depth conversation continues.  The French are not afraid to start dinner later in the evening and stay up late to share ideas, converse, and rekindle with great company.   

Here are some rules and etiquette important to know about French dining..

-Do not rest your hands on your lap it is similarly rude to place your elbows on the table in America.  Keep hands on table.  

-Bread will most likely be served at every meal.  You should have a bread plate but if one is not present the bread should remain on the tablecloth and not on your plate.  Be aware to rip pieces of bread from a larger chunk versus taking bites from a larger piece. 

-Follow the host.  Wait until everyone is served to begin to eat.  Same for the apéritif, wait until the host raises his/her glass to make a toast to drink. 

Now that you have a general idea of how to host a French dinner party good luck and enjoy your company!