Entertaining should not be about fuss or pomp. I want my focus to be on my company. And on making sure the food packs tons of big, satisfying flavor. Not much beyond that matters.
Which is why I tend to gravitate to a particular version of family-style dining when I have guests. It’s not just a matter of having shared dishes, though that’s certainly a start. My approach is more about how the food is presented and consumed, delivering the message that this meal is about comfort and friendship.
Here’s how it works. I start with a base. The base should be something easily spread. Hummus is a great choice. Many salads and roasted vegetables work, too. Savory yogurt dips work, particularly if you’re going for a Greek menu. Whatever you opt for, this base is spread thick over a large serving platter.
Next, you decide what to top that with. I love roasted or seared meats that have been cut into bite-size portions. Roasted vegetables would be a great vegetarian version. Same for beans and cheese. Whatever you go with, this is heaped on top of the base layer. You finish with a sprinkle of something that ties everything together, such as chopped fresh herbs or crumbled goat cheese.