Slice, Dice & Dish

One of the most common hosting missteps I see — over and over again — is serving way too much food. And listen… I love leftovers as much as anyone, but no one wants to be eating the same dinner for three days straight.

When you’re hosting a dinner party, it’s important to remember that your recipes already account for the number of guests you’re serving. You don’t need to double anything “just in case.”

My recipes are written to serve 8 guests, which makes them easy to scale. If you’re serving four, it’s easy to cut in half. If you’re serving six, go ahead and make the recipe that serves 8 — you’ll have just enough for seconds without drowning in extras.

And here’s the thing to keep in mind:
✨ This is not the only meal your guests will eat that day.
✨ You are not responsible for feeding them like it’s Thanksgiving.
✨ They don’t expect — or need — bottomless food options.

Serve what you planned, trust the recipe, and don’t create extra work for yourself. Hosting should be joyful… not exhausting.

Trust the process — you’ll have enough food. I promise!

---

✨ Stay Connected & Inspired

✨ Subscribe so you don’t miss more real-world entertaining tips and weekly hosting stories.
✨ Forward this email to a friend who’s always worried they won’t make enough food—they’ll appreciate this one.
✨ Follow along for easy menus, décor ideas, and ways to make every gathering feel special, joyful and authentic.
✨ Shop my kitchen here: SHOP
✨ Grab what you need at a discount: HOST
✨ Earn some extra income while you’re at it: SELL
✨ Watch what I’m making for dinner every day on Instagram
✨ Join my Slice, Dice & Dish Community on Facebook

Here’s to hosting with confidence and cooking just the right amount.
Cheers,
Colleen 🥂

These are truly my go-to roasted potatoes. I make them weekly—sometimes as a simple side dish, sometimes as the base for my Kitchen Sink Hash—and they never let me down. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, endlessly adaptable, and always disappear fast.

That said, I’ll be honest with you:
👉 These potatoes take a little patience.

But the payoff? Completely worth it.

The secret to their success is a simple three-part method: soak, first roast, second roast. Each step plays an important role in getting that golden, crispy exterior without sacrificing a soft, tender center.

---

✨ Why These Potatoes Work Every Time

Soaking the potatoes before roasting draws out excess surface starch. That one step alone makes a huge difference—it prevents gumminess, helps the potatoes cook evenly, and creates the ideal contrast between a crunchy outside and a fluffy interior.

The two-stage roasting process seals the deal. The first roast cooks the potatoes through, while the second, hotter roast delivers that irresistible crispiness we’re all after.

These potatoes are:

• Perfect for weeknight dinners
• Reliable enough for entertaining
• Flexible with seasonings
• Delicious straight from the pan (no sauce required)

---

🔄 Why This Recipe Is So Versatile

One of the reasons I make these roasted potatoes so often is how easy they are to change up depending on the meal, the season, or what’s already in the fridge.

This recipe is a perfect blank canvas. Once you master the method, you can make it feel completely new every time:

• Switch up the seasoning → Italian seasoning, garlic and paprika, taco seasoning, za’atar, rosemary and thyme… they all work beautifully.
• Add citrus zest → A little lemon or orange zest tossed in at the end instantly brightens the dish.
• Wilt in greens → Toss in baby spinach, arugula, or chopped kale right after the final roast—the heat from the potatoes wilts them perfectly.
• Combine with other roasted vegetables → Broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts, onions, or bell peppers all pair wonderfully and turn this into a full side or even a main.

This flexibility makes these potatoes just as good for a casual weeknight dinner as they are for a dinner party—you can adapt them to fit any menu without starting from scratch.

---

🥔 Choosing Your Potatoes

You can use any kind of potato here:

• I love smaller potatoes because they’re easy to halve or quarter and don’t require peeling.
• Larger potatoes work just as well—just cut them into ¾-inch cubes for even cooking.

Skins on or off? Totally your call.

As for seasoning, Italian seasoning is my go-to, but salt and pepper alone are fantastic. Garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, or whatever you love will work beautifully here.

---

🍽️ My Favorite Go-To Roasted Potatoes

Ingredients

• 1 pound potatoes, cut into ¾-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Place the cubed potatoes in a bowl and cover completely with cold water. Let soak for 20–30 minutes.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
3. Drain the potatoes well and toss with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
6. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F.
7. Return the potatoes to the oven and roast for another 15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

---

🧡 Hosting Tip

These potatoes are a dream when entertaining because you can do the soak and first roast ahead of time, then finish them just before serving. That means less stress and hot, crispy potatoes right when your guests sit down.

---

✨ Stay Connected & Inspired

✨ Subscribe so you don’t miss more real-world entertaining tips and weekly hosting stories.
✨ Forward this email to a friend who’s always chasing perfectly crispy potatoes—they’ll appreciate this one.
✨ Follow along for easy menus, décor ideas, and ways to make every gathering feel special, joyful, and authentic.
✨ Shop my kitchen here: SHOP
✨ Grab what you need at a discount: HOST
✨ Earn some extra income while you’re at it: SELL
✨ Watch what I’m making for dinner every day on Instagram
✨ Join my Slice, Dice & Dish Community on Facebook

---

Here’s to crispy edges, fluffy centers, and recipes you can trust
Cheers,
Colleen 🥂

The reasons to entertain at home just keep coming!

Recently, The Wall Street Journal released an article outlining how restaurants are scrambling to find new ways to lure customers back through their doors. And honestly? It’s no surprise why people are choosing to stay home more.

✨ Menu prices are climbing.
✨ Portions are shrinking.
✨ Beloved restaurants are closing for good.

But here’s the bright side: gathering at home has never been more meaningful, more intimate, or more rewarding. And that is exactly where I come in — and why I’m so excited for what’s ahead in 2026.

---

✨ What’s Coming in 2026

Twice each month, I’ll be sharing brand NEW dinner party plans and menus designed to make hosting easier, more joyful, and absolutely doable — even on a weeknight.

Each dinner party plan will include:
🍽️ 9 fully tested recipes
🕯️ Table-setting ideas to fit the mood you want
🎶 Atmosphere tips to set the tone
⏱️ Make-ahead shortcuts so you enjoy the night just as much as your guests

Whether you’ve been wanting to save money by dining at home, or you keep promising yourself you’ll finally host that dinner party you’ve been dreaming about… this is your moment.

Get ready — because 2026 is going to be full of beautiful tables, incredible meals, and gatherings that feel unforgettable.

---

✨ Stay Connected & Inspired

✨ Subscribe so you don’t miss more real-world entertaining tips and weekly hosting stories.
✨ Forward this email to a friend who’s always talking about wanting to host more but never knows where to start—they’ll appreciate this one.
✨ Follow along for easy menus, décor ideas, and ways to make every gathering feel special, joyful and authentic.
✨ Shop my kitchen here: SHOP
✨ Grab what you need at a discount: HOST
✨ Earn some extra income while you’re at it: SELL
✨ Watch what I’m making for dinner every day on Instagram
✨ Join my Slice, Dice & Dish Community on Facebook

Here’s to creating memories around your own table — without the restaurant prices
Cheers,
Colleen 🥂

This is one of those desserts that makes people pause after the first bite… and then immediately go back for another.

When I first described Chocolate Espresso Bread Pudding to my husband, he wasn’t sold. The combination sounded a little unexpected, and he couldn’t quite picture how it would all come together. But one bite was all it took. He loved that it wasn’t overly sweet — rich, yes, but balanced. Deep chocolate flavor, a hint of espresso, and a cozy, custardy texture that feels indulgent without being heavy.

I suggested topping it with whipped cream or ice cream (because of course I did), but he surprised me by saying he preferred it just as it was. And honestly? I get it.

---

☕ Why This Dessert Works So Well

✨ It’s rich without being cloying — perfect for guests who don’t love overly sweet desserts
✨ The espresso deepens the chocolate instead of overpowering it
✨ Comforting and elegant at the same time
✨ Perfect for dinner parties — it feels special, but not fussy
✨ Even better the next day (if there’s any left)

This is the kind of dessert that quietly steals the show. It’s familiar enough to feel comforting, but the chocolate–espresso combination gives it that “wow, what is this?” factor that guests remember.

---

🍮 Easy Ways to Change It Up

Want to play with it a little? You can absolutely make it your own.

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top instead of chocolate
• Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt
• Serve with softly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
• Or do nothing at all — it truly stands on its own

However you serve it, this dessert is a guaranteed hit at the end of a dinner party, holiday gathering, or any night when you want something cozy and a little indulgent.

---

🍫 Chocolate Espresso Bread Pudding

1 loaf (about 12 oz) day-old French or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup sugar
4 large eggs
2 tablespoons espresso or strong coffee
4 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla
½ teaspoon cinnamon
pinch of salt
2 tablespoons butter, melted
garnish: powdered sugar and chocolate syrup
optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

1. Heat the oven to 350˚F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Place the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, sugar, eggs, espresso, cocoa powder, vanilla, cinnamon and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the custard over the bread cubes, gently pressing the bread down so it soaks up the liquid. Let stand 15-30 minutes to absorb.
5. Drizzle the melted butter over the top and bake, uncovered, 40-45 minutes, or until the top is browned and the center is set but still soft.
6. Cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and drizzling with chocolate syrup. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.Makes 8 servings

---

✨ Stay Connected & Inspired

✨ Subscribe so you don’t miss more real-world entertaining tips and weekly hosting stories.
✨ Forward this email to a friend who’s a chocolate-and-coffee dessert lover—they’ll appreciate this one.
✨ Follow along for easy menus, décor ideas, and ways to make every gathering feel special, joyful, and authentic.
✨ Shop my kitchen here:SHOP
✨ Grab what you need at a discount:HOST
✨ Earn some extra income while you’re at it:SELL
✨ Watch what I’m making for dinner every day onInstagram
✨ Join my Slice, Dice & Dish Community onFacebook

Here’s to desserts that surprise, delight, and end the night on a perfect note

Cheers,
Colleen 🥂

I first got this idea from Ree Drummond, The Pioneer Woman, and it’s been my absolute favorite host gift ever since. And the best part?

It’s ALWAYS a hit. Every single time.

Instead of bringing the usual bottle of wine or candle, I love gifting a breakfast basket — because after hosting a house full of people, the last thing anyone wants to think about the next morning is making another meal.

This gift gives them the one thing every host deserves:
✨ an easy, comforting breakfast they don’t have think too much about to prepare.

---

🧺 What Goes Into the Basket

I always start with a reusable basket — something that can double as storage or décor later on. Discount stores and thrift shops are my favorite places to find cute, budget-friendly options.

Inside, I fill it with breakfast goodies like:

• Pancake mix or pre-made waffles
• Maple syrup
• A dozen eggs
• Bacon (always a crowd-pleaser!)
• Fresh fruit
• Orange juice
• Danishes — one or two varieties, depending on how many people will be eating

If I know only one or two people will be enjoying the basket the next morning, I scale things down and include something simple like muffins, eggs, bacon, and a small bottle of OJ.

Everything is usually store-bought (no shame in that!), unless I have extra time — or the ambition — to bake something homemade.

And I always tuck in a cute decorative kitchen towel to tie it all together. It’s practical, pretty, and adds such a thoughtful touch.

---

💛 Why This Gift Works

It’s thoughtful.
It’s useful.
It’s unexpected.
And it says, “Thank you for hosting — now please enjoy a slow, peaceful morning.”

Hosts put so much time, energy, and heart into creating a special experience. This gift helps give a little of that back.

---

✨ Stay Connected & Inspired

✨ Subscribe so you don’t miss more real-world entertaining tips and weekly hosting stories.
✨ Forward this email to a friend who’s always looking for meaningful, practical gift ideas—they’ll appreciate this one.
✨ Follow along for easy menus, décor ideas, and ways to make every gathering feel special, joyful, and authentic.
✨ Shop my kitchen here: SHOP
✨ Grab what you need at a discount: HOST
✨ Earn some extra income while you’re at it: SELL
✨ Watch what I’m making for dinner every day on Instagram
✨ Join my Slice, Dice & Dish Community on Facebook

Here’s to giving gifts that feel thoughtful, personal, and truly appreciated.
Cheers,
Colleen 🥂

Inviting guests to a dinner party doesn’t have to feel intimidating! Whether it’s an elegant evening or a casual get-together, the way you extend the invitation sets the tone for the event.

Formal occasions may still call for a traditional invitation, but most dinner parties can be announced in a more relaxed and personal way. A handwritten note, text, email, or phone call all work beautifully — it just depends on the vibe you want to create.

💌 Choosing the Right Invitation Style

A handwritten note gives a sense of something special — it shows thoughtfulness and builds anticipation. It doesn’t have to be fancy or formal; it’s the perfect opportunity to let your personality and creativity shine.

A phone call (if anyone still answers their phone these days!) is wonderful for connecting personally — and you’ll usually get an instant RSVP.

Text or email work perfectly well, too. They’re quick, casual, and convenient, especially for friends you chat with regularly.

👉 Pro tip: No matter which method you choose, invite everyone the same way. Consistency avoids confusion and ensures no one feels slighted.

---

⏰ When to Send Invitations

The general rule of thumb? Anywhere from a few days to three weeks ahead.
I’ve found that one to two weeks is the sweet spot — it gives guests enough time to plan without feeling too far out.

---

🗓️ What to Include

Be sure your invitation includes:

• 📅 Date and time of your dinner party
• 📍 Location and address
• 📞 RSVP instructions (text, email, or call — whatever’s easiest for you)
• 👗 Dress code or theme (if you have one)
• 🍷 Any other helpful details — like what’s being served, if guests should bring something, or parking info

And don’t forget clarity on who’s invited. If you’re mailing invitations, write out each guest’s name on the envelope. For digital invites or calls, be specific:

“We’d love to have you and John join us for dinner!”

If kids are invited, you can address it to “The Jones Family.” If guests can bring someone, simply add “Please bring a guest.” Clear communication makes everyone comfortable from the start.

---

📞 Following Up on RSVPs

One of the biggest stressors when hosting? Not knowing who’s actually coming!

If you haven’t heard back three days before the party (or before your grocery run), reach out and confirm. You’re not being pushy — you’re being practical.

And for the record… not replying to an invitation? That’s just bad manners. 😉

---

💡 Handling Last-Minute Invitations

Sometimes plans change, guests cancel, or you realize there’s room for one more. So how do you invite someone last-minute without it feeling awkward?

Simple: know your friends. If someone might feel hurt by a late invite, wait until next time. But for your easygoing pals, honesty is best.

Try something like this:

“We’re having a dinner party tomorrow night, and someone had to cancel. We’d love to have you join us – we’ve been wanting to get together anyway! Sorry for the short notice, but we hope you can make it.”

If they can’t come, be gracious — there will always be another opportunity to connect.

---

🥂 Hosting Rule of the Week

An invitation isn’t just about logistics — it’s the first step in setting the tone for your event. Be thoughtful, be clear, and most importantly, make your guests feel like they’re part of something special.

---

✨ Stay Connected & Inspired

✨ Subscribe so you don’t miss more real-world entertaining tips and weekly hosting stories.
✨ Forward this email to a friend who’s planning their next dinner party—they’ll appreciate this one.
✨ Follow along for easy menus, décor ideas, and ways to make every gathering feel special, joyful, and authentic.
✨ Shop my kitchen here: SHOP
✨ Grab what you need at a discount: HOST
✨ Earn some extra income while you’re at it: SELL
✨ Watch what I’m making for dinner every day on Instagram
✨ Join my Slice, Dice & Dish Community on Facebook

---

Here’s to thoughtful invitations, meaningful connections, and dinner parties that feel just right — every time.
Cheers,
Colleen 🍷