Have everything ready before the guests get there and simply spread it all out at the appointed time. Include the preparation of the food as part of the party - whip up the vinaigrette dressing as your friends look on, or have guests chop the salad ingredients, turn the ribs, stir the Lowcountry boil and set the table. Let your favorite deli or gourmet take-out do the work for you. Great cheeses, gourmet crackers and fresh fruit produce an eye-stopping appetizer tray. Pick up a bakery lemon cake for dessert.
Prepared foods cost a little more, but make life simpler.
For cooks who consider entertaining an excuse for getting back in the kitchen, here's a menu big on aroma, color and contrasting flavors. WORK PLAN 1. Cut pastry for tarts, prick, brush with oil, add herbs and cheese, cover with plastic and refrigerate. Slice tomatoes, but do not place on pastry rounds until you are ready to bake. Have pork tenderloin seasoned and in baking dish ready to go into the oven when guests arrive.