Love to throw parties? Keep a well stocked pantry of staple food and beverage items and you’ll be ready to party anytime.
Here is a checklist of must-have entertaining basics. If you have a Trader Joe’s, Wholefoods Market or Cost Plus World Market near you, then you can find many of these products and your guests will appreciate the gourmet tastes.
Seasonings, Stocks & Spices
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Balsamic Vinegar
- Sea Salts
- Chicken, Beef & Vegetable Stock
- Garlic Powder
- Canned Italian tomatoes and paste
Spreads, Dips & Sauces
Have some of these items handy, especially if they are packed in a can or jar. You can add some spices to give them a bit of flare.
- Olive Tapenade
- Sun Dried Tomato Tapenade
- Roasted Peppers
- Hummus
- Dijon Mustard
- Cream Cheese
- Fruit Jam
- Salsa
Rice & Pastas
Boil, drain and pour your favorite sauce and you are good to go.
- Arborio (Risotto)
- 3 Varieties of Pastas (I like Penne, Linguini and Tri-colored Fusili)
- Jasmine or Brown Rice
Crusts & Shells
These are great to have in the freezer. Just thaw and fill with just about anything for a last minute appetizer or dessert.
- Frozen Puff Pastry
- Phyllo Dough
- Ready-made pizza dough
- Pie Crusts
Cheese & Meats
- Wedge of Cheddar
- Chunk of Parmigiano- Reggiano
- Brie
- Hard Salami
Nibbles
- Crackers
- Nuts
- Popcorn
- Olives
- Breadsticks
- Cheese Sticks
- Baguette
- Pretzels
- Tortilla Chips
Desserts
An easy quick sweet to end a meal is to make ice cream sandwiches. Take your favorite cookie, put a spoonful of ice cream and top with another cookie. Keep in the freezer until you are ready to serve.
- Vanilla Ice Cream
- Cookies
- Pound Cake
- Frozen Fruit
- Chocolate
Beverages
- Sparkling Water
- Soda
- Beer
- Red Wine
- White Wine
- Champagne
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
