Ever wish you could host a dinner party and not be stuck in the kitchen while your guests talk and enjoy time together. Readers will notice early on that these are recipes that allow them to prepare much of the food ahead of time and finish up the meal quickly so they can spend more time as part of the party and less time standing over a hot stove. Enjoyable time together is what makes the meal memorable; not fancy presentation and exotic ingredients. Eliminating the complicated methods and the time away from guests will allow hosts to make meals their own and make them special - just like the guests for whom they are cooking. Good, basic recipes that together with appetizers and desserts you let your guests bring make the meal a group effort and a special time together.