May 10th, 2011 
Dinner parties tend to be a bit formal. Cocktail parties can segregate people. How can a hostess plan a perfect get together? One that brings everyone around the same table, but evokes the more casual, celebratory atmosphere of a cocktail party? Try a Raclette Party!
The term “raclette” can mean several things. First, it is the cheese produced in the Alpine villages of the Swiss Alps. Raclette can also refer to the traditional meal, which highlights the cheese’s distinctive flavor and superb melting skills. Finally, the grill, which the meal is prepared on, has become known as the raclette.
The key to a successful Raclette Party is completely dependent on the preparation.
Photo courtesy of Trudeaucorp.com
Make sure to clean and cut every vegetable and protein into bite sized chunks. Also, plan a theme. Popular themes include vegetarian feasts featuring an array of vegetables in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors – including everything from asparagus to radishes to zucchini. Want a night that focuses on something a little more simple? Try personal pizzas and remember to include diced ham and pineapple along with traditional pizza toppings like mushrooms, pepperoni and sausage. Finally, go gourmet with shrimp, beef tips and smoked salmon.
Photo courtesy of welovetocookclub.blogspot.com
If you are more of a traditionalist, use this recipe for the traditional raclette dinner from Raclette Australia.
- 8 small/medium potatoes
- 1.5 lbs Raclette Cheese
- 1 jar pickled gherkin cucumbers (cornichons)
- 4 small onions (or shallots)
- 24 slices salami or ham
- freshly ground pepper
Other optional ingredients:
Leg ham, prosciutto (thin Italian ham), pepperoni (spiced salami), tomatoes, pineapple, capsicum, prawns, fresh or dried herbs, avocado, onions, marinated chicken/beef, mushrooms, celery, asparagus, olives, crusty bread, or salads.
Remember, the secret ingredient to any Raclette Party is the camaraderie and conversation the guests enjoy over the grill!
[...] well rounded and blends a little bit of everything for every woman. Be sure to check out my post on “how to host a raclette party.” (It was inspired by Amy from The Family [...]
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