Question

What’s a cheap but impressive meal to cook for dinner parties?

Answer 1

One impressive and budget-friendly meal option to consider for dinner parties is a homemade pasta dish. Pasta dishes are versatile, customizable, and can be elevated with delicious ingredients. Here's a suggestion for a cheap and impressive pasta dinner:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Roasted Vegetables:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) pasta of your choice (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
• Assorted vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. Chop the assorted vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until they are tender and lightly browned.
3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce and toss until the pasta is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the creamy pasta to a serving dish and top it with the roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
8. Serve the dish warm and enjoy!

This creamy garlic Parmesan pasta with roasted vegetables is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an impressive choice for a dinner party. You can also consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp as protein options if you desire. Accompany the meal with a fresh salad and some crusty bread, and you'll have a complete and satisfying dinner for your guests.