Tip From The Hearth: Fuss-Free Dinner Parties

Have you always wanted to have friends and family over for dinner, but don't like cooking big, involved meals? I try to host weekly gatherings of friends in our homes, but some times I go through phases where I want nothing to do with long-winded prep work or standing over a stove.

So, what to do? You want the fun of a dinner without the same level of fuss. Ordering pizza and wings is fun, but can't happen on a regular basis. Instead of investing more time than you'd like in the kitchen, have a "Make Your Own (Insert Customizable Food Here) Night."

This week I'm having Make Your Own Quesadilla Night. Provided by me:

• tortillas
• shredded cheese
• salsa
• black beans
• sautéed onions
• sautéed bell peppers

Anyone coming has been asked to bring an additional fun filling, topping, or side of their choice. A few years ago, I plunked down $30 one of those unnecessary indispensable small appliances, a quesadilla maker, to make quesadilla nights even more fuss-free. Folks can personalize the meal to their hearts' content.

Not a fan of quesadillas? No problem! You can have your own "Make Your Own" dinner party with other foods including, but not limited to:

• baked potatoes (just add sour cream, cheese, broccoli, bacon, etc.)
• salad (you provide a base of greens and dressing, friends bring add-ins)
• tacos
• veggie burgers/burgers

Have fun, be creative, and let dinner take care of itself for a change!