To the table

The kitchen is the heart of the family and mealtimes, the heartbeat. It only takes a few seconds to make it special. This section will give you some ideas to that end.

 

Estimating amounts for the table

Recipes are very good about estimating how many people a dish will serve. If serving guests always make 2 extra servings, just in case. For things like appetizers, count on 4 per person if used as a starter and 20 per person if for a party and no meal will be served. Always count on hearty servings for soups and salads. Try to plan for leftovers as well for next-day lunches.

 

Setting the table to set the stage

You can make the humblest of fare seem special with a thoughtful meal setting. If you think about it, that is the true beginning of the meal. People grab a buffet plate, sit at a place setting, or park in front of the tube with a tray. Each place can be equally pleasant. So that is where I begin my preparations...at what might seem like the end. I quickly walk through the meal in my mind and set the table or get out the necessary service items as I go.

This step helps things run more smoothly and makes it more enjoyable for those eating. You will tend to get less rattled and feel less rushed if the service has already been considered. There is nothing more awkward than searching for that platter on the top shelf while others are trying to help and the burgers are ready to come off the grill. It also makes things look more effortless. Not to mention, it is much safer for you. Even it it's a few trays in front of a bowl game in the living room, if they are out and ready, you have less to worry about.

Touches of class

A few simple items can lend an elegant air to any meal. Try some of these ideas. None of them are costly, but the look is rich. It will send the thoughtful message that you care.

cloth napkins - Mix and match different patterns. Pull them through a napkin rings like a rose, and you never have to iron them.

a small votive candle - Put it on a saucer to keep it from damaging the table.

plant life - If no fresh flowers are available from the garden, choose a sprig of leaves. I have even been known to have a basket of pine cones or rocks with grasses on the table.

centerpiece - This does not have to be extravagant. A wooden bowl of lemons, a basket of autumn leaves, a ceramic vessel of dyed eggs...something to reflect the season.

guest of honor - Recognize the birthday kid with a few scraps of confetti at his or her plate. Celebrating a new romance or engagement? Put a Hershey's kiss at everyone's place.

sack lunch - Put a new pencil or a sticker in someone's lunch if he or she has done something special lately.