Some of us think entertaining means:

  1. A perfect and tidy house.
  2. A magazine-worthy meal.
  3. No kitchen mess-ups and a seamless transition from stovetop to tabletop.

The reality is usually pretty different. And that’s OK. Make it easy on yourself: whip up these quick recipes for friends and family. They’re simple, fast, and stress-free. Why doit any other way?

Tater Tots

Just 15 minutes to prep, Healthy Baked Herb and Garlic Tater Tots are spunky and retro, perfect for a casual gathering with the neighbors and their kids or your favorite couples. Crispy outside, creamy inside thanks to Little Yellows, dip in salsa, ketchup, or Ranch (vegan version, too).

Twice Baked

When the cold weather sets in, we all crave something comforting that sticks to the bones. Enter Broccoli Cheddar Twice Baked Potatoes. Serve this one as a party appetizer or filling side to roasted chicken or parchment-wrapped baked fish and a winter salad. Make ahead and reheat before serving.

Magazine-worthy

Crispy Potatoes with Lemon Crème Fraîche and Dill will earn you some serious street cred with foodie friends for its gorgeous presentation. You boil, smash, then sear vibrantly hued purple Little Purely Purples or colorful Little Trios. Set on an artsy platter and drizzle with the lemon-dill-Crème Fraîche sauce with horseradish zip, then dot with fresh dill. Voilà!

Roasted

Roasted Chilean Splash Potatoes with Radishes, Fennel & Prosciutto looks pretty on the table and the flavor combo is a winner. Put this dish together in about 10 minutes, then set the oven on delay start so you can serve it hot as an attractive side to pork, beef, fish, or chicken. Purple Creamers look great and lend a bold, complex flavor, enhanced by licorice-y fennel, the bite of aged Balsamic, and salty prosciutto.

SHARE ONE OF YOUR SECRETS TO QUICK ENTERTAINING? WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE FAIL-PROOF PARTY RECIPE?