Padma Lakshmi Shares Her Advice for Hosting a Fool-Proof Holiday Party

As she put it, “That’s going to make your life easier if you don’t want to make a new dish for those few people, but you want them to feel catered to and welcome.”

Another expert tip? Don’t add more to your plate by creating a big menu.

“You’ll drive yourself crazy,” Lakshmi shared. “If you’re having a good time and you’re relaxed, your guests will be relaxed.”

If anything, it all comes down to following a few simple rules. “Just remember to do your research,” she advised. “Find recipes that look juicy, but don’t make them for the first time on the day of your dinner party.”

And while the reality TV star knows that entertaining can be a daunting task, she offered some sage words of advice. “We have to remember that less is more,” Lakshmi noted. “People are there to enjoy each other’s company.”

“Understand that your guests are coming there to share in your company,” she continued, “Not to be wowed and impressed.”