Monday, May 11, 2026
🍷 EntertainingToday's Tip
The French do not wait for perfect conditions to have people over. A roast chicken, a green salad, bread, cheese, and wine. That is a complete dinner for six. The invitation is casual: "Come over. I am making chicken."
Try This
Invite someone over this week with less than 24 hours notice. Roast a chicken (salt, olive oil, 425F, one hour). Buy bread. Make a salad. Open wine. You just hosted a French dinner party.
The French "emergency dinner" pantry always contains: pasta, canned tomatoes, good olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, vinegar, a block of Parmesan, and butter. With these staples plus whatever fresh vegetables are available, you can make a dignified meal for unexpected guests in 25 minutes.
One French lifestyle tip, every morning at 7am. Free — always.