NOTE: This is Part III of a multi-part series on throwing dinner parties. Check out our appetizer ideas and our salad ideas. Stay tuned for more!
Now that you’ve got the first two courses of your dinner party out of the way, it’s time to really amp up the wow factor with your main course. Unlike the first two courses, which are intended to wake up the palate, the main course should offer deep, savory bites that are heavier, richer in texture and satisfying. And given that it’s now fall, there are a lot of fresh fall vegetables accessible to us that we should take advantage of.
The main course is also a good place to incorporate a strong protein. For meat eaters, there are a ton of choices, of course, and we’ve incorporated a few suggestions below. For vegetarians and vegans, the focus should be on making the key vegetable ingredients vibrant with flavor, but also to incorporate other protein sources such as legumes (beans and lentils) and whole-grains (brown rice, quinoa, etc.).
The great thing about these recipes is that they’re very flexible, and it’s easy to substitute ingredients to adjust it to your preferences.
Grilled Chicken Pineapple Sliders: This unique and healthy take on sliders mixes sweet and sour to pack a punch of flavor. Plus, there’s never a bad time to grill.
Autumn Chicken Stew: Pick up some fall root vegetables and slowly simmer this easy-to-make chicken stew. Or go vegan by leaving out the chicken and using vegetable stock. Serve with some crusty French bread for maximum deliciousness.
Root Vegetable Stew with Herbed Dumplings: Another yummy approach to using fall root vegetables, this stew includes savory dumplings that will warm guests, hearts and fill their stomachs when the weather outside gets cold. To make this vegetarian friendly, substitute the sausage with cannellini beans.
Vegan Cauliflower Alfredo: This recipe’s richness hides its simplicity. The combination of cauliflower and almond milk create a creamy texture, while garlic, Dijon mustard and fresh herbs add big flavors for very little effort.
Tune in for more ideas on how to throw the perfect dinner party! If you want more help finding healthy eating options, schedule a visit with one of our complementary specialists or join us for one of our cooking classes.