Healthy dinner parties are the latest rage these days. According to an article in Huffington Post, dinner parties have undergone major changes these days. While earlier people were less concerned about the food served at parties, now most are conscious about their eating habits. Yes, even at parties. Experts agree that this adds an additional challenge, since hosts are required to serve foods that are healthy and tasty. If you are interested to know how to throw healthy dinner parties, read on.
Healthy living starts with fresh and simple food
Andrea N. Giancoli, spokesperson of American Dietetic Association says that serving fresh foods is a healthy idea since they have higher nutritional value. According to Giancoli, you can start with seasonal food and use fresh, wholesome ingredients to cook them. If you are looking for healthy ideas, avoid using too much of cream or sauces while cooking the food. Make a healthy choice by selecting veggies of different colors such as mushrooms, carrots and ball peppers. Allow your guests to enjoy good living by serving these healthy foods on whole-wheat crackers.
Opt for timesaving healthy ideas
Experts agree that serving simple dishes at dinner parties is a healthy idea since it cuts down the preparation time. As Beth Thayer, dietician at Henry Ford Health System says, “You want to be socializing with your guests, not stuck in the kitchen slaving away”. According to Thayer, deciding your menu beforehand will save time and help you to enjoy the party.
Include colorful food in the healthy eating plan
Thayer believes that creating a colorful meal is a healthy idea, since it can stimulate the senses. In addition, a rainbow-colored healthy eating plan will ensure that your guests are getting sufficient minerals and vitamins. Cut up seasonal fruits such as banana, grapes, apples and pears and serve them at the end of the healthy meal as a nutritious dessert. Sprinkling these fruit chunks with few drops of honey or nuts such as walnuts and almonds is a healthy idea.
Choose healthy proteins for the main course
According to Thayer, when you are planning a dinner party, it is crucial to ask your guests if they suffer from any food allergies or have certain religious and cultural preferences. In addition, note down how many people prefer vegetarian food. Researching about your guests’ preferences and considering their special requirements will make your dinner party even more appealing. Experts agree that serving lean protein (preferably grilled) for the main course is a healthy idea. Ditch the salt and add herbs and spices to make the food tasty. You can even consider the healthy idea provided by Thayer. Thayer comments, “I like to offer my guests a choice and may have a salad or a pasta station so they can make their own meals the way they like them.”If a guest shows no interest in trying out a particular dish, do not force him/her.
Provide take-home containers
Experts agree that providing take-home containers to your guests for packing the leftovers can be a healthy idea. Thayer says that this will prevent them from overeating, which can be quite unhealthy.
Have fun to live well
While throwing a dinner party, remember that at the end of the day everyone wants to spend some quality moment with their loved ones. According to Thayer, it is crucial to let the guests enjoy the food and the atmosphere. Avoid discussing about the fats or calories in the food. If you want, you can consider the healthy idea of providing your guests with the nutritional information of the food and recipe. Print them on attractive stationary to earn appreciation of your guests.
