I need to throw a dinner party for 6 people who are vegetarian. Can you suggest a 3-course menu with a chocolate dessert?.
Hosting a dinner party for vegetarian guests can be a fun and delicious experience. With a little creativity and some thoughtful planning, you can create a memorable meal that everyone will enjoy. Here’s a 3-course vegetarian dinner party menu with a chocolate dessert that is sure to impress your guests.
Appetizer: Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms make a great appetizer that is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. To make this appetizer, you will need:
- 12 large mushrooms
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare, preheat your oven to 375°F. Remove the stems from the mushrooms and place them cap-side down on a baking sheet. In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spoon the mixture into each mushroom cap and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Main Course: Vegetarian Lasagna
Lasagna is always a crowd-pleaser, and this vegetarian version is no exception. To make this dish, you will need:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare, preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions and set aside. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the spinach and mushrooms and cook until the vegetables are tender. In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper.
To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place a layer of noodles on top of the sauce, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, and a layer of the vegetable mixture. Repeat the layers until you have used all of the ingredients, ending with a layer of marinara sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Dessert: Chocolate Mousse
For a decadent and chocolatey dessert, try making chocolate mousse. To make this dessert, you will need:
- 8 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 eggs, separated
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
To prepare, melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
Fold the melted chocolate into the egg yolk mixture, then fold in the whipped cream. Finally, fold in the beaten egg whites. Spoon the mixture into individual serving dishes and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
With these three delicious courses, you’re sure to impress your vegetarian guests. Plan ahead, prepare your ingredients in advance, and enjoy a fun and delicious evening with your friends.
Great meal