Ep 7. Cocktail Party Rules

In Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics season 15 episode 7, titled "Cocktail Party Rules," host Ina Garten shares her tips and tricks for throwing a successful cocktail party.

The episode begins with Garten preparing a fancy cheese board, which she says is an essential element to any cocktail party. She advises viewers to select a mix of hard and soft cheeses, and to add in some cured meats, nuts, and dried fruit for a variety of flavors and textures. She also demonstrates how to make a homemade fig jam, which pairs perfectly with cheese.

Next, Garten moves on to cocktails. She shows viewers how to make a batch of her signature whiskey sours, as well as a refreshing rum punch. She emphasizes the importance of making drinks in advance so that you can spend more time mingling with your guests during the party.

For food, Garten prepares a variety of appetizers, including roasted shrimp cocktail and smoked salmon on toast points. She also shares her recipe for deviled eggs, which she says are always a crowd-pleaser at any party. She recommends using a piping bag to create a more elegant presentation, and to top the eggs with different garnishes such as smoked salmon or caviar.

Throughout the episode, Garten emphasizes the importance of keeping things easy and stress-free when hosting a cocktail party. She suggests preparing as much as possible in advance, and delegating tasks to guests if needed. She also advises against trying to make too many different dishes, and instead keeping the menu simple and focused on a few key items.

Overall, the "Cocktail Party Rules" episode of Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics is a great resource for anyone looking to host a successful and stress-free cocktail party. Garten's tips and recipes are easy to follow and sure to impress your guests.