When it comes to hosting a dinner party, there’s nothing quite like impressing your guests with a memorable and delicious meal. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat your loved ones to a night they’ll never forget, these elegant dinner party recipes are sure to impress. From classic dishes like Beef Wellington with Red Wine Reduction to more innovative creations like Pomegranate Glazed Salmon, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering options to help you plan the perfect evening.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through some of the most sophisticated and flavorful recipes out there. With ingredients ranging from truffles to prosciutto, and techniques that include braising, roasting, and searing, these dishes are sure to delight even the most discerning palates. So why not start planning your next dinner party today? Let’s get cooking!
Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Chicken
A classic recipe with a flavorful twist, this garlic butter herb roasted chicken is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Place the chicken on a roasting pan and spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the breast and legs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef Wellington with Red Wine Reduction
Experience the rich flavors of France with this show-stopping Beef Wellington dish, elevated by a deep and fruity red wine reduction. This impressive main course is perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) filet mignon
– 1/2 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 puff pastry, thawed
– Red wine reduction (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the filet mignon with thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear the filet in hot oil for 1-2 minutes per side, then let cool.
4. Spread mushroom duxelles over the filet, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Roll out puff pastry to fit the filet. Place the filet in the center of the pastry and brush edges with water.
6. Roll the pastry around the filet, sealing the edges. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Red Wine Reduction:
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Combine wine and garlic in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and reduce by half. Stir in butter until melted. Serve over Beef Wellington.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes for the Wellington, 10-15 minutes for the red wine reduction.
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
Brighten up your seafood dinner with this flavorful and aromatic dish, where the tanginess of lemon zest pairs perfectly with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 teaspoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest.
5. Season the scallops with salt and pepper.
6. Place the scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the garlic-lemon butter sauce over them, making sure they’re evenly coated.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the scallops are cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Truffle Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with this decadent recipe featuring the luxurious flavor of truffles.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon truffle oil or 1/4 teaspoon truffle salt
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, heavy cream, truffle oil (or salt), and salt. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Brie with Honey and Walnuts
Elevate your party with this elegant and easy-to-make baked brie recipe, featuring a sweet and savory combination of honey and walnuts. This crowd-pleasing appetizer is perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 oz)
– 1/4 cup pure honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the Brie cheese wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the honey over the Brie, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the honey layer.
5. Dot the top of the cheese with softened butter.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly puffed.
7. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this elegant and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a quick appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 fresh asparagus spears
– 6 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Rinse the asparagus spears and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Place an asparagus spear on each prosciutto slice, leaving about 1 inch of stem exposed.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus tender.
7. Serve warm with lemon wedges and parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Seared Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this impressive yet effortless recipe that combines the richness of duck breast with the sweetness of cherry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts, skin removed
– 1 cup cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup port wine
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the duck breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add butter, and sear the duck breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to the oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. In the same skillet, combine cherries, port wine, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly (about 10 minutes).
5. Serve the seared duck breast with the cherry sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Wild Mushroom Risotto
A hearty and earthy risotto that celebrates the flavors of the wild. This recipe combines Arborio rice with a medley of sautéed mushrooms, white wine, and parmesan cheese for a comforting and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, oyster, and cremini), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; sauté until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine; cook until absorbed.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup at a time to the risotto, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, remove from heat. Stir in parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto
Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Dish
Elevate your grilled lamb chops to new heights with the bright, herbaceous flavor of mint pesto. This easy-to-make sauce is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a food processor, combine mint leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Grill lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Brush mint pesto on lamb chops during the last minute of grilling.
6. Let lamb rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lobster Thermidor
Savor the rich flavors of this classic French dish, featuring succulent lobster meat smothered in a creamy thermidor sauce and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds lobster meat (fresh or frozen), diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1/4 cup cognac (optional)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add lobster meat, white wine, cognac (if using), and flour. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until lobster is lightly coated.
4. Transfer mixture to a baking dish. Top with Gruyère cheese.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a light and refreshing meal. The earthy flavor of arugula adds depth to this simple yet elegant dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine arugula, goat cheese crumbles, and chopped walnuts.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top salad with roasted beet wedges.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pomegranate Glazed Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this vibrant and flavorful Pomegranate Glazed Salmon recipe. The sweet and tangy pomegranate glaze perfectly complements the rich flavors of the salmon, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Braised Short Ribs with Creamy Polenta
Succulent short ribs slow-cooked in a rich sauce, served alongside creamy polenta for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup polenta cornmeal
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear ribs until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until tender. Remove from heat and let cool.
6. Cook polenta according to package instructions.
7. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (including braising time)
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Feta
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the nutty flavor of quinoa, crumbled feta cheese, and a hint of Mediterranean spices. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch, these stuffed bell peppers are packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix quinoa, feta cheese, onion, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the richness of spinach and artichokes with the tenderness of chicken. This stuffed chicken dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-artichoke mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Lava Cakes with Raspberry Coulis
Elevate your dessert game with these decadent chocolate lava cakes, paired with a sweet and tangy raspberry coulis.
Ingredients:
For the cakes:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 ounces best-quality dark chocolate chips or chunks, finely chopped
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the coulis:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter six 6-ounce ramekins or small cups.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and 1/4 cup sugar. Add chocolate; stir until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; whisk until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly among prepared ramekins.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set but centers still slightly jiggly.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the coulis: In a small saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Add water and lemon juice; whisk until smooth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (cakes) + 5-7 minutes (coulis)
Tiramisu in Individual Glasses
Elevate your coffee break with this bite-sized version of the classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu. Layered espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder create a rich and indulgent treat that’s perfect for a special occasion or a pick-me-up any time.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– Heavy cream, whipped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dip each ladyfinger into the cooled espresso for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. To assemble, place a ladyfinger in the bottom of an individual glass or cup. Top with a layer of mascarpone mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cocoa powder. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of mascarpone on top.
4. Chill for at least 3 hours before serving. If desired, top with whipped heavy cream and additional cocoa powder.
Cooking Time: None ( assembly and chilling only)
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the deep flavors of caramelized onions with the creamy richness of Gruyère cheese, perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Spread the cooked onions over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly over the onions. Drizzle with heavy cream.
6. Fold the pastry up over the filling to form a tart shape. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Elevate your lamb dish with a flavorful herb crust that complements the tender meat perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) rack of lamb, frenched and trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the lamb rack on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan, bone side up.
4. Spread the herb mixture evenly over the lamb, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the herb crust.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Panna Cotta with Fresh Berries
Panna Cotta with Fresh Berries Recipe
A classic Italian dessert gets a sweet twist with the addition of fresh berries. This creamy and light panna cotta is perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unflavored gelatin
– Fresh berries of your choice (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until it’s fully dissolved.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Just before serving, top with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your dinner party guests with these elegant and delicious recipes! From classic Beef Wellington with Red Wine Reduction to decadent Lobster Thermidor, there’s something for everyone. Other standout dishes include Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Chicken, Truffle Mashed Potatoes, and Pomegranate Glazed Salmon. These recipes are sure to make your dinner party a memorable evening. With a range of options to suit every taste, you’ll be able to wow your guests with both savory and sweet treats.