My husband loves to cook.  But when it is up to me, I try to keep things simple and enjoy my guests.  I like to do things ahead as much as possible.   Why not invite a few friends over for a winter gathering"  Or, this could be an intimate dinner for two.

1.  Set the table in advance.  

Store bought flowers are added to my existing succulent pots. I love my new oversized gray table runner and the price!  The linen napkins are from a Schumacher remnant sale (you can look on Ebay for fabric).  Fran from Etsy did a nice job making napkins for $3.50 each.  The charcoal glasses are on sale right now (in store only) at World Market.

2.  Shop and prepare menu items in advance.
French Onion SoupDisclaimer...this isn't hard but the darn onions take a loooong time to brown.  So making it ahead is your best bet!
PHOTO BY CHARLES MASTERS, FOOD STYLING BY SUE LIDo ahead:Soup can be made up to 3 days ahead (without toasts or cheese) if refrigerated, or up to 6 months ahead if frozen. Toasts can be made (without cheese) and kept sealed at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Ina Garten's Perfect Roast Chicken
Your guests will appreciate the aroma when they enter your home and you can have a cocktail with them while it finishes cooking.I make this often for just us (good leftovers for the week).Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on the platter.
Store Bought Lemon Sorbet with a Spritz of Meyer Lemon (and lemon s...