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Slimming Dinner

Fall can be a tempting time, with tailgate parties, reading groups and other food-centric get-togethers popping up all over the place. With a little advance planning and the right guest list, though, it’s easy to plan a fall feast that’s every bit as healthy as it is fun. Here’s how to execute and enjoy a guilt-free, taste-full "Slimming Dinner" that will have your friends begging to come back.

1. Guest List. Deep down, you probably know without even thinking about it who you should NOT invite to this event. They’re your perpetual wingmen: the fun-loving friends who are always wheedling you into ordering truffle fries or encouraging you to buy that splurgy, too-tight outfit. Instead, consider inviting your more health-conscious friends, the morning walking buddy, friends from the gym or yoga class, or the conscientious coworker who’s always eating a fresh homemade salad at lunch. Even if they’re not your besties—yet—it’s a great way to start building a community of like-minded friends.

2. Party Planning. Your event’s name should be a big hint about the nature of the menu, but it won’t hurt to provide some friendly guidelines for your friends to follow. Start by putting yourself in charge of the beverages and one entrée—this will ensure that you have creative control over two key components to a successful Slimming Dinner. Then take sign-ups for healthy appetizers, entrées, and desserts. You may also want to provide recipe resources, referring your guests to our online Recipe Library; the Cooking Light and Eating Well websites both have thousands of healthy (and delicious) options as well.

3. Event Ideas. Now here’s the fun part! Create your own signature low-calorie fall cocktail by experimenting with light cranberry juice, sparkling water, and the spirit of your choice. If cranberry’s too tart for your taste, add a splash of Torani’s Sugar-Free Orange Syrup for an extra burst of flavor that sets the perfect tone for a fall party. For your entrée, try a hearty in-season squash casserole that can be baked in a pan, then served in a scooped-out pumpkin—presentation is more important than you might think! And by all means, spread the hype! Set up a Facebook Group and set an example by sharing your yummy recipes in advance of the party; it will get your guests motivated to "bring it" when party time rolls around.

4. Come Clean. Provide guests with copies of your recipes (you can fit four on one sheet of standard paper) and invite them to do the same, encouraging everyone to include their contact information on each recipe. Not only will everyone walk away with a handful of inspiring cooking ideas, they’ll have the tools to cultivate new friendships if they so desire. Keep the Facebook Group going, too, so the girls can continue to share healthy recipes and workout tips between parties. You never know: Your Slimming Dinner may become a monthly event, with a different host every month&hellip: something good AND good-for-you that you can look forward to all year long.

Inspired to host your own Slimming Dinner? Tell us about it on Facebook, and you could win a free week of Jenny’s Cuisine^®!